Can You File Your Own Bankruptcy?

Guidance From a Knowledgeable Bankruptcy Lawyer in Orlando, Florida

If you are asking the question, “Can I file my own bankruptcy?”, you are almost certainly under considerable debt-related stress. With money short and pressures intense, it is understandable that you might consider filing on your own rather than investing in a lawyer.

There are plenty of do-it-yourself bankruptcy kits available online, and you can get the required legal forms. There is no law stipulating that you must be represented by a bankruptcy lawyer. Ultimately, the key question isn’t whether you could file without legal counsel, but whether you should — and what risks are involved.

Laws Passed in Recent Years Made Filing Substantially More Complex

Prior to the passage of the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2005, a person willing to put in the time and effort could sometimes file a very simple Chapter 7 bankruptcy case successfully. While that is not impossible under today’s laws, we at the Price Law Firm cannot recommend it in good conscience. Critical considerations include:

  • The decision to file bankruptcy should be made with a clear understanding of all potential benefits, obligations and risks — and only after having considered viable alternatives.
  • Bankruptcy forms are exhaustive, legally complex documents requiring a complete listing of income, assets and debts — and a single omission or mistake can lead to the unnecessary loss of assets or dismissal of the case.
  • Many people have key asset protection goals as well as debt relief objectives, and only an experienced attorney can properly assess and prepare a Chapter 13 filing if that is the best path for you.
  • Filers face several intimidating steps in the process, including an appearance before a federal court official called a bankruptcy trustee and a meeting of creditors.

Discuss Affordable Bankruptcy With a Caring, Helpful Attorney

Ultimately, people file bankruptcy to solve problems, regain peace of mind and get back on track financially. Tackling a complex, high-stakes legal proceeding on your own may work against achieving those goals — and a missed deadline or misunderstanding could be very costly. We work efficiently and strive to put affordable bankruptcy within reach for all those in the Orlando, Florida, area who can benefit.

For a free initial consultation to discuss your debt challenges, our services and options for obtaining the relief you need, contact us today at 407-834-0090.

We are a debt relief agency. We help people file for bankruptcy relief under the Bankruptcy Code.