Should I hire a lawyer?
There’s no doubt that filing on your own — called pro se or pro per — can save you money. The bankruptcy fees to file alone can be difficult when your finances are already stretched thin. And legal help can cost you anywhere from $500 to $3,000 or more.
But an experienced bankruptcy attorney may be able to save you money in the long run. An initial consult can help you apply the means test to determine whether bankruptcy is a viable option. If not, a lawyer can steer you to alternatives that fit your situation better.
If bankruptcy is a good fit, a lawyer can help you value your property, identify debts that can be discharged and any exemptions in your state. They’ll also represent you at court with the expertise to work with your creditors to the best end for you.
If you go it alone, take extra care with your filing, paperwork and testimony to ensure that everything you present is 100% accurate.