Filing Chapter 7 Bankruptcy in Chicago? Why You Shouldn't Do It Alone

24-Feb-2011  Chicago bankruptcy Lawyer fees are not inexpensive. Add them to the cost of filing and you can expect to pay approximately $2,000. This may be an overwhelming cost for someone who is in enough financial distress that they are filing chapter 7 bankruptcy. However when you consider what you gain in return for filing chapter 7 it is well worth the cost.

The value doesn't stop some people from trying to file for bankruptcy without a lawyer. They may be concerned about money or think they can handle the process alone. Whatever the reason most people will be terribly overwhelmed with the paperwork involved with filing chapter 7 bankruptcy in Chicago. Not only is the paperwork complicated but it has to be done correctly. You cannot afford to make a mistake that may delay the process.

When someone decides to file for bankruptcy they need a change in their financial obligations as soon as possible. Filing alone is sure to take much longer than filing with a bankruptcy attorney. Not to mention that the process will go more smoothly with an attorney.

The 'means' test is also typically conducted by a bankruptcy attorney. This test is necessary to determine if you are even eligible to file chapter 7 bankruptcy. To qualify for chapter 7 you need to show that your income is below the average for the state of Illinois.

Chapter 7 bankruptcy also has some exclusions. For example, student loans, child support and back taxes cannot be discharged through bankruptcy. This is the type of valuable information you can learn from you attorney. It would be very unwise to file for bankruptcy if you have a small amount of credit card debt and a significant amount of student loans. You may be discharged of the credit card debt but the student loan debt is here to stay.

Working with an expert attorney can guarantee the accuracy of your filing as well as ensuring you don't miss any opportunities to negotiate your debts rather than filing bankruptcy.

There will be no surprises with an attorney and you can use them as a resource to get your questions answered to and to better understand what is in store for you when you file.

Chang and Carlin
The content found on the Chang & Carlin site is not legal advice and is purely for informational purposes. The information contained herein is not a substitute for the advice of an attorney and does not create an attorney-client relationship. If you are interested in obtaining information about chapter 7 bankruptcy, chapter 13 bankruptcy, foreclosure services, real estate legal services, you are encouraged to call our law firm at 866-790-8601 or Request a Free Legal Evaluation. Chang and Carlin serves clients in Chicago, Schaumburg, Joliet, Warrenville, Waukegan, Illinois.