How To File Bankrutpcy With Or Without A Bankruptcy Attorney

The Law Offices of Zhou & Chini, Orange County bankruptcy attorneys announce the acquisition of a unique bankruptcy contact management system (CRM) that allows them to efficiently handle the increased volume of bankruptcy filings.
By: Kevin Oconnor
 
Oct. 27, 2010 - PRLog -- Chapter 7 bankruptcy is the most desired type of bankruptcy to file, and contrary to what some might think you can usually keep your home, cars and all your personal belongings. Filing Chapter 7 has become a very popular way to eliminate credit card debt as well as other unpaid bills. But let’s face it; no one wants to file bankruptcy unless they have to. But once you decide to file bankruptcy you must first qualify under the “means test” to file Chapter 7 or you might need to file Chapter 13 and repay some of your debts over 3 to 5 years. Most people hire a bankruptcy attorney to see that all their debts are properly discharged; however some go it alone or hire a paralegal. I want to disclose the fact that I’m a California bankruptcy attorney so I may be a little bias, but keep in mind I have seen a lot of “do it yourselfers” make costly mistakes filing on their own. Never the less I still highly recommend using a bankruptcy attorney who has full knowledge of federal bankruptcy laws and state exemptions. You only get one chance every 8 years to file Chapter 7 bankruptcy, so make certain you get it right.

Filing Bankruptcy by Myself

When you file bankruptcy on your own there are some important things to consider. First you must pull a credit report on yourself and make certain to include all your debts. Your court costs range from $274.00 for a Chapter 13 filing and $299.00 for a Chapter 7 bankruptcy. You are also required to complete a credit counseling class before you file any bankruptcy chapter. Once you prepare and file your bankruptcy petition the court will set a 341 creditors hearing you must attend. Typically this hearing is set out 3 to 4 weeks after your petition is filed. If your bankruptcy does not get dismissed your debts should be discharged in about 3 to 4 months depending on the County you reside. It’s important to consider at least consulting a bankruptcy attorney if you decide you go it alone. Most bankruptcy attorneys offer free consultations if you are considering filing bankruptcy in California. I can’t speak for other states but that’s how we do it here in California.

Filing with a Paralegal

Pretty much the same holds true when you hire a petition preparer or paralegal to help you file bankruptcy. Most paralegals will charge anywhere between $300.00 to $500.00 to file your petition and absolutely can NOT offer legal advice, even though most do. I highly recommend you only seek legal advice from a licensed bankruptcy attorney. We have seen many consumers miss informed from petition preparers and get themselves into hot water with the courts bankruptcy trustees. If you have a very simple bankruptcy (a few credit cards) and fall well within the median income, hiring a paralegal to save money might not be a bad choice.

Hiring a Bankruptcy Attorney

Most consumers consult and hire a bankruptcy attorney to file bankruptcy for them just like they hire a Dentist to fill a cavity or a CPA to file their taxes. Bankruptcy attorneys are highly trained and educated and have full knowledge or federal laws and state exemptions. Additionally, a bankruptcy attorney is held accountable to see your bankruptcy is filed properly and can advise you as how to file and what debts can be discharged. The bankruptcy attorneys at the Law offices of Zhou & Chini always offer a free bankruptcy consultation.  If you are looking for a bankruptcy attorney we have over 10 California locations to serve you. Call us at (800) 901-3440 or visit www.bankruptcyattorneyincalifornia.com

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The perfect storm of a slow economy, falling real estate prices, rising credit card balances, and higher medical costs for patients has many people in California seeking relief from their debts by any means possible.
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Source:Kevin Oconnor
Email:***@bankruptcyattorneyincalifornia.com Email Verified
Zip:92675
Tags:Bankrutpcy Attorney, Bankruptcy Lawyer, File Bankruptcy
Industry:Financial
Location:California - United States
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