Do I Need a Lawyer to File Bankruptcy?
The short answer is: No. Personal bankruptcy filings do not require an attorney; the forms required to file are free, and anyone over 18 can legally submit them on their own behalf. Just as many people do their own car repairs or tax returns, sometimes with less-than-ideal outcomes, some attempt to file bankruptcy on their own.
In addition, there are many companies in Arizona that advertise bankruptcy services for amounts as low as $200. However, these services are typically provided by legal document preparers, not lawyers. Document preparers are prohibited by law from giving professional legal advice, they cannot represent you in court and they cannot usually clean up the mess when something goes wrong. Without a skilled bankruptcy lawyer in your corner, the risk of costly mistakes is significant.
Attorney Brian Blum of the Rosenstein Law Group only practices bankruptcy law. He knows the federal laws that govern bankruptcy, and he knows what pitfalls to avoid, particularly when it comes to protecting your assets — tax refunds, transferred assets and vehicles, for example — from trustees and creditors. Contact Brian for advice on your case.
Helping You Decide Which Option Is Best for You
With your goals in mind, Scottsdale consumer bankruptcy attorney Brian Blum will start with a careful assessment of your financial situation, reviewing your debts, assets and income in detail in order to help you determine the best solution for your problem. He may use a Chapter 7 means test, which helps determine whether a person qualifies for Chapter 7 bankruptcy filing, or he may propose debt reorganization possibilities under Chapter 13. Before proceeding with any course of action, Brian will explain what your options are, describing the benefits and drawbacks of each one.
If you choose to file for bankruptcy, Brian will prepare all the necessary documents, represent you in court and before the trustee, and communicate with your creditors on your behalf. He will keep you apprised of progress in your case and answer any questions you may have.
The Part You Play
You play an important role in the development of a debt relief solution. If you choose to pursue bankruptcy, you will be asked to provide complete and accurate information about all your debts and assets, as well as your income. This will enable Brian to position your case for success and prevent problems in the bankruptcy process.
Contact the Rosenstein Law Group for advice on your case.
We are a debt relief agency. We help people file for bankruptcy relief under the Bankruptcy Code.
