Pro Se or DIY Filing

You can file a bankruptcy petition without an attorney (a pro se filing), but it is an area fraught with peril. The forms are available on a number of sites on the Internet. See U.S. Courts Bankruptcy Forms. If your case is anything more than a simple Chapter 7 below the median income then you should consult a lawyer. If you decide to complete the forms by yourself, then we recommend that you have them reviewed by an attorney experienced in the bankruptcy process in the jurisdiction where you intend to file. A review might cost anywhere between $200 and $300, but that may save you from problems that arise in after your case is filed. Such services are sometimes referred to as limited scope engagements which means that their services are limited to a review of your documents and little more. For example, they may tell you that you should have a homestead, but if you fail to record one they will not be responsible for that failure. On the other hand, if you have a full engagement with an attorney, the failure to file a homestead may be his or her problem. You get what you pay for, but limited scope engagements may save a debtor money and aggravation even in simple situations.