Bankruptcy Forms
Can you File Bankruptcy without an Attorney?
Yes it can be done yourself, the key is to be properly prepared. If you chose to file Bankruptcy on your own then make sure to purchase a good resource book. A good book will have step by step guides along with sample forms and schedules to follow. Of the two main types of Bankruptcy Chapter 7 is more conducive to the do it yourself-er. The Chapter 7 is allot less complicated then the Chapter 13 Bankruptcy process. If you need to do a Chapter 13 I would highly recommend you consider hiring an experienced Attorney.
The form only takes a few minutes to complete, request a FREE Consultation Today!
The problem is that the bankruptcy petition is very lengthy, and the means test can be rather complicated. The bankruptcy trustee along with the Bankruptcy Judge expect and require that every document be properly completed and submitted in a timely fashion. Failure to do it right endangers your case and can lead to dismissal. The judges are rather intolerant and do not like to grant continuances to correct the petition.
If you are inclined to file your own bankruptcy most of the form links are available on this site in fill-able form. The best approach would be to buy the associated Nolo Press Book for the Chapter of Bankruptcy your are attempting to File. Then use the book along with the fill-able forms to complete your Bankruptcy Petition.
There are specific Bankruptcy Forms that are required by the court and they must be completed accurately. Failure to file any of the Bankruptcy Forms will result in you receiving a deficiency notice and the possibility of your Bankruptcy being dismissed if you do not clear the deficiency in a timely manner.
For do it yourself Bankruptcy Forms you really have four options, 1. Bankruptcy Forms obtained from the Bankruptcy Court, 2. A good do it yourself book like Nolo Press that includes instructions and the Bankruptcy Forms, or 3. Bankruptcy Forms software 4. A Bankruptcy Form preparation company like Legal Zoom. Additionally you should check with your local Bankruptcy Court for a list of required forms, as each court might have additional required local forms.
Additionally there is a link on the Means Test page to help you determine which Chapter of Bankruptcy you qualify. And of course if you get into the process and find that it is to much work or two complicated then click on the link to find an experienced attorney in your area.
Nothing substitutes for a good bankruptcy lawyer, the old saying you get what you pay for is applicable in this situation. But then I do see plenty of parties that have filed and completed their own Bankruptcy on a daily basis.
This website does not constitute legal advise as we have not met to discuss your situation in detail. It is just meant to be a general guide to those contemplating filing Bankruptcy on their own.
