Thu 28 May 2009
Filing an online bankruptcy is appealing, but you can’t actually do it unless you are an attorney. You can order bankruptcy forms online, use online software to help you fill out those forms or have your bankruptcy lawyer submit your bankruptcy forms online – but if you prepare your forms by yourself you cannot submit them online.
Each court requires a different amount of copies to be filed in addition to your petition and courts vary on how you must submit a creditor matrix.
Do It Yourself – If you plan on filling out the bankruptcy forms yourself, you will need to research and find the information applicable to your state and to the local courthouse you are zoned for. You will also need to find the bankruptcy expemptions available in your state to use when filling out your bankruptcy forms.
Representing yourself at the 341 hearing is also your responsibility if you prepare your own bankruptcy forms. This is obviously the cheapest method, but it also leaves the most room for errors and confusion.
Hire An Attorney – Should you choose to hire an attorney, they will most likely look over your case, inform you which chapter of bankruptcy fits your situation, and then prepare your bankruptcy petition and file it with the courthouse.
Your bankruptcy lawyer will represent you at the 341 meeting as well. While this method requires the least amount of work and aggravation on your part, but you will of course have to pay the attorney – and for those who can’t pay basic expenses, paying for an attorney may not be possible.
