You can attempt many types of legal filings without a lawyer, including filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, but doing so can be difficult and could potentially expose you to the consequences of avoidable mistakes.

Each year, thousands of people file for personal Chapter 7 bankruptcy due to their inability to repay the debts they have accumulated. While excess debt is the common denominator for bankruptcy, cases vary based on the types of assets and debts you have and the complexity of your financial situation.

Filing for bankruptcy is not an easy decision to make. Many debtors find the process complicated and overwhelming.

You’ll have to familiarize yourself with federal laws, organize all your financial documents and fill out a plethora of paperwork. You’ll also need to be mindful of filing deadlines and collaborate with a bankruptcy trustee.

An experienced bankruptcy lawyer can make the process much easier and increase your chances of successfully ridding yourself of unwanted debt while minimizing the damage to your real assets.

There are different types of bankruptcy, but all cases are handled through federal courts. After a bankruptcy discharge, your bankruptcy-eligible debt is officially erased, and you are granted an opportunity to start anew.

Here are some additional things you should know when filing bankruptcy:

If you do attempt to file Chapter 7 bankruptcy without the assistance of an attorney, your path toward debt relief will likely consist of the following steps:

If your financial situation is particularly complicated, such as a case in which creditors are suing you, it may be in your best interest to seek legal representation.

For example, creditors who have loaned you money in the past can file a nondischargeability complaint requesting the court not discharge your debt. This typically happens when the creditor is accusing you of things like fraud, embezzlement, intentionally damaging property or purchasing luxury items within 90 days of filing for bankruptcy.

If you’re faced with such actions, a qualified bankruptcy attorney may be able to help you combat the accusations or better navigate the fallout.

Even if you’re situation isn’t complicated by creditor actions, consulting with a bankruptcy attorney could still be beneficial.

You may have questions or be confused about certain aspects of the bankruptcy process. Minnesota Lawyer Referral and Information Services (MNLRIS) is committed to helping Minnesota residents find expert legal representation.

If you’re in the Minneapolis–St. Paul metro area and looking for a bankruptcy attorney, our referral counselors will help you find the right person. We also offer referrals for individuals seeking advice on marriage and family law.

Call us at (612) 752-6699 to schedule your free consultation.

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