what if you can't afford a lawyer to file bankruptcy

• Negotiate Reduced Fees. Try negotiating if you can’t afford the amount your attorney has quoted. ...
• Apply for Chapter 7 Filing Fee Payment Plan. If you can’t afford a bankruptcy attorney near you or a Chapter 7 filing fee in full, you can apply for a ...
• Contact a Legal Aid Society. ...
• Seek a Pro Bono Attorney. ...
• Contact OakTree Law. ...

Full Answer

Can't afford a bankruptcy lawyer?

Even if you can't afford a bankruptcy lawyer, consider talking to an attorney. Many attorneys provide free consultations. You could learn about hidden dangers your case might present.

Do I need an attorney to file for bankruptcy?

You don't have to have an attorney to file for bankruptcy. But whether it would be in your best interest to hire one will depend on: if you're willing to do the research necessary. Learn more about filing for bankruptcy without an attorney. Simple Chapter 7 bankruptcies.

Where can I get bankruptcy help without an attorney?

Get Help from a Legal Aid Society or Free Legal Clinic. If you can’t afford a bankruptcy attorney, you may be able to receive help from a legal aid society or a free legal clinic in your area.

Is it harder to file bankruptcy on your own?

These types of bankruptcy cases have many pitfalls for self-represented debtors and are a lot harder to complete on your own. In fact, most attorneys who don't practice bankruptcy law regularly will not file bankruptcy cases. There's too much risk of making an error.

What debts Cannot be forgiven in bankruptcy?

Filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy eliminates credit card debt, medical bills and unsecured loans; however, there are some debts that cannot be discharged. Those debts include child support, spousal support obligations, student loans, judgments for damages resulting from drunk driving accidents, and most unpaid taxes.

What bankruptcy clears all debt?

Chapter 7 bankruptcy is a legal debt relief tool. If you've fallen on hard times and are struggling to keep up with your debt, filing Chapter 7 can give you a fresh start. For most, this means the bankruptcy discharge wipes out all of their debt.

What can cause a bankruptcy to be denied?

5 Reasons Your Bankruptcy Case Could Be DeniedThe debtor failed to attend credit counseling.Their income, expenses, and debt would allow for a Chapter 13 filing.The debtor attempted to defraud creditors or the bankruptcy court.A previous debt was discharged within the past eight years under Chapter 7.More items...•

What are 5 types of debt that are not dischargeable in bankruptcy?

Nondischargeable debt is a type of debt that cannot be eliminated through a bankruptcy proceeding. Such debts include, but are not limited to, student loans; most federal, state, and local taxes; money borrowed on a credit card to pay those taxes; and child support and alimony.

How much do you have to be in debt to file Chapter 7?

Again, there's no minimum or maximum amount of unsecured debt required to file Chapter 7 bankruptcy. In fact, your amount of debt doesn't affect your eligibility at all. You can file as long as you pass the means test. One thing that does matter is when you incurred your unsecured debt.

Can a creditor refuse a bankruptcy?

Your creditors can also object to your discharge from bankruptcy. If a creditors objects, the creditor, or the lawyer, will let the court know what issues they have. You, or your lawyer, also have the opportunity to present your facts to the court.

Does Chapter 7 discharge All debts?

An individual receives a discharge for most of his or her debts in a chapter 7 bankruptcy case. A creditor may no longer initiate or continue any legal or other action against the debtor to collect a discharged debt. But not all of an individual's debts are discharged in chapter 7.

How often does bankruptcy get denied?

Frequency of Denial While some Chapter 7 bankruptcy cases are kicked out of court before discharge, statistics indicate that this isn't the norm. According to the U.S. Courts website, when Chapter 7 cases are correctly filed, they result in a successful discharge of debts more than 99 percent of the time.

What can a bankruptcy attorney do?

A knowledgeable bankruptcy attorney can provide you with legal advice, prepare your bankruptcy paperwork, and guide you through the bankruptcy process. But these services come at a cost. If you can't afford to pay the fees, you might be able to: represent yourself as a "pro se" debtor. negotiate reduced attorneys' fees.

Can I file for bankruptcy without an attorney?

Learn more about filing for bankruptcy without an attorney. Simple Chapter 7 bankruptcies. Filers with little or no income or assets, and no other matters that might complicate a bankruptcy might be able to file on their own. But even a simple Chapter 7 bankruptcy requires a significant amount of time and research.

Can I afford a bankruptcy lawyer?

In many cases, you can pay a good portion of your attorneys' fees through your Chapter 13 repayment plan. Even if you can't afford a bankruptcy lawyer, consider talking to an attorney. Many attorneys provide free consultations.

Do I have to have an attorney to file for bankruptcy?

Represent Yourself in Bankruptcy. You don't have to have an attorney to file for bankruptcy. But whether it would be in your best interest to hire one will depend on: the type of bankruptcy you want to file. the complexity of your case, and. if you're willing to do the research necessary.

Can I take a bankruptcy case pro bono?

Some attorneys take on a certain number of cases pro bono (free of charge or at a significantly reduced rate) each year. If you don't have the means to pay for the services of a bankruptcy attorney, you might be able to find a lawyer to take your case pro bono.

Negotiate Reduced Fees

Try negotiating if you can’t afford the amount your attorney has quoted. Make a proposal based on what you can afford to pay and are willing to offer. If your lawyer understands your financial situation and/or your income is low, they may agree to accept your case. Otherwise, consult with other local attorneys that charge a more affordable fee.

Chapter 13 Repayment Plan

Your Chapter 13 bankruptcy attorney can agree to an option that allows you to pay your attorney’s fees through the plan. While you’ll need to pay a filing fee and other costs, you can pay out attorney’s fees and your creditors will cover the costs up front.

Apply for Chapter 7 Filing Fee Payment Plan

If you can’t afford a bankruptcy attorney near you or a Chapter 7 filing fee in full, you can apply for a Chapter 7 filing fee installment payment plan (Form 103B). You must have a steady income source to qualify.

Contact a Legal Aid Society

There are legal aid societies in the U.S. that offer low-income individuals with free legal services. One in your area can help if you can’t find an affordable bankruptcy attorney.

Seek a Pro Bono Attorney

Some legal professionals will take on a case pro bono, or free of charge/at a reduced rate. You can find pro bono attorneys through your state bar or a local bar association, by referral from other lawyers, and on the internet. The American Bankruptcy Institute also provides resources to locate pro bono attorneys by state and city.

Contact OakTree Law

If you’re looking for a bankruptcy attorney in Los Angeles or Orange County, OakTree Law can help find the right solution for you based on your financial situation, starting with a thorough evaluation. We specialize in Chapter 7, Chapter 13, and Chapter 11 bankruptcy.

What is the first thing you need to know about bankruptcy?

The first thing to know about bankruptcy is how the automatic stay protects you. The automatic stay goes into effect immediately. It prevents any collection action from any source. This includes-

Is Chapter 7 bankruptcy a simple bankruptcy?

It is, and it’s not one to be taken lightly. Bankruptcy, even a ‘simple’ Chapter 7 is actually a complex legal procedure. Many people try to DIY or using a bankruptcy preparer if they can’t afford a lawyer to file bankruptcy for them. This is risky for a few reasons.

Does bankruptcy show up on credit report?

Yes, a bankruptcy filing will show up on your credit report and it will have an impact. There is no way around it. However, many credit providers understand that someone who has successfully exited bankruptcy is a better credit risk without a burden of debt service. Instead of turning over your whole paycheck to minimum payments, that money is now in play. Additionally, with the restrictions on filing for bankruptcy, you’re locked in for a given period of years before you can file again.

Can a federal discharge be revoked?

If you decide to use some of the tricks in said book, you may have a previously successful discharge revoked. Yes, your discharge can be revoked if the court decides that the discharge was obtained by fraud. This means that you have concealed assets or information, lied to your attorney or the court, altered or destroyed information, or are unable to explain deficiencies in your assets or property. It’s a bad idea to play chicken with the federal bench and your attorney will not be pleased.

Will I lose everything if I file for bankruptcy?

Most people understand very little about bankruptcy, which is why some resist filing bankruptcy even when it would be the best thing for them to do. One of the biggest myths out there is that people just assume filing bankruptcy means they’re going to lose everything. Not true!

Will filing bankruptcy ruin my credit forever?

People filing for bankruptcy often ask this question: Will bankruptcy ruin my credit forever? The short answer is no, but it is a little more complicated than that. Here’s what you need to know.

How can I get a car loan after filing bankruptcy?

One of the worst myths out there about bankruptcy is the assumption there’s no way you can get a car loan if you need one after filing bankruptcy. People end up paying what little cash they can scrape together for a horrible car that ends up being more trouble than it’s worth.

Will I lose everything if I file for bankruptcy?

Most people understand very little about bankruptcy, which is why some resist filing bankruptcy even when it would be the best thing for them to do. One of the biggest myths out there is that people just assume filing bankruptcy means they’re going to lose everything. Not true!

Will filing bankruptcy ruin my credit forever?

People filing for bankruptcy often ask this question: Will bankruptcy ruin my credit forever? The short answer is no, but it is a little more complicated than that. Here’s what you need to know.

How can I get a car loan after filing bankruptcy?

One of the worst myths out there about bankruptcy is the assumption there’s no way you can get a car loan if you need one after filing bankruptcy. People end up paying what little cash they can scrape together for a horrible car that ends up being more trouble than it’s worth.

Will I lose everything if I file for bankruptcy?

Most people understand very little about bankruptcy, which is why some resist filing bankruptcy even when it would be the best thing for them to do. One of the biggest myths out there is that people just assume filing bankruptcy means they’re going to lose everything. Not true!

What to do if you can't afford bankruptcy?

If you can't afford a Chapter 7 bankruptcy lawyer, consider whether one of the following might work for you: stop making payments on debts that will get wiped out in bankruptcy and pay your attorney instead. borrow the fees from a friend, family member, or even your employer. retain a bankruptcy lawyer who will handle creditor calls ...

What happens if you file Chapter 7 bankruptcy?

When you file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, the court—and your creditors—assume that you'll stop making payments on bills that will get discharged (wiped out) in your bankruptcy case and use the funds to pay legal fees instead. For instance, credit card payments, medical bills, past-due utility payments, and personal loans (such as payday loans) usually qualify for a discharge.

What are the free clinics for bankruptcy?

Free Clinics, Legal Aid, and Pro Bono Attorneys. Resources are available to debtors who can't afford a bankruptcy attorney, but they vary depending on where you live. Some bankruptcy courts have free clinics to help debtors file for bankruptcy relief on their own.

How many installments can you pay for bankruptcy?

Otherwise, you might be able to pay the fee in up to four installments. To apply for either, you'll complete and submit the official request forms along with your initial bankruptcy petition. The court will notify you if the judge approves the waiver or installment arrangement.

How much do lawyers pay for retainers?

Some lawyers will let you pay a retainer as low as $100 and then pay the remaining attorneys' fees in installments. However, even though many lawyers offer payment plans, they won't file your case until all fees are paid in full—and for a good reason.

Do you have to file bankruptcy in Chapter 7?

All Chapter 7 cases require you to fill out extensive bankruptcy forms, research exemption laws (to protect property) and follow all local court rules and procedures. If you aren't comfortable doing the work—and assuming the risk—consult with a bankruptcy lawyer.

Can you pay all attorney fees in Chapter 13?

But this chapter doesn't work for everyone.

Can a debtor represent himself in court?

A debtor can represent himself in court (aka pro se) in lieu of paying an attorney to do the same. However, circumstances determine if filing pro se is in the debtor’s best interests. A debtor must be willing to perform extensive research, have few assets and little income when filing.

Can I pay my attorney through Chapter 13?

A debtor who accepts a lawyer’s free consultation gains legal insight. Alternately, attorney fees can be paid through a Chapter 13 repayment plan. Remember, filing a Chapter 13 bankruptcy requires an understanding of extensive bankruptcy laws, necessitating the services of a lawyer.

Does the Illinois State Bar accept pro bono cases?

Every year, many attorneys accept a certain number of pro bono cases, which means the lawyer either provides legal services for free or at a significantly reduced rate. The Illinois State Bar Association or Chicago Bar Association have resources to find a pro bono lawyer.

Can I file for bankruptcy without a lawyer?

For many debtors, the process is time-consuming and too intimidating to handle independently. Instead, consult a bankruptcy lawyer from Berry K. Tucker & Associates, Ltd.

Understanding the Agreements

Low or no down, the agreements are handed over before the filing – one is the agreement to pay the filing fee if such is not waived under the means test. The second agreement is for the services provided after the filing, and the schedule of payments for the petitioner to the law firm for those services.

Why We Do It

Denying people access to justice because of their finances is an act of injustice. It is discriminatory, and in a country where everyone is entitled to equal protection under the law, it betrays a basic tenet of our country. Our payment agreement may not right historical wrongs, but it can help to stop perpetuating them.

Every Case is Different

Even when two people file for the same Chapter 7, there are so many factors in their individual circumstances. Tenancy by the entirety? Personal property? Mortgage versus rent? Retirement income? We do more than just file a petition, we offer individualized legal advice and assistance to get you the outcome you need to go on with your life.

What happens if you are sued for a debt?

Most of the time. However, if you’re sued for a debt and fail to show for your court date, you could lose by default. If you defy the court’s order to pay, then you’ve triggered a process that could lead you to jail.

Is credit counseling a competitive industry?

Credit counseling is a competitive industry, so shop around. Compare services, qualifications, certifications, access and cost. Don’t confuse them with credit repair companies, which peddle services you can perform on your own.

Can a debt collector chase you?

Incomplete or erroneous information can prompt a debt collector to chase you for a debt when actually it’s someone with a similar name, or it’s for a debt you already paid. It’s illegal, but it’s not uncommon. Arrest you. This is not the 19th century. Most of the time.