Legal Question in Bankruptcy in Florida

Re: bankrupcy

Oh, boy, did you ask a mouthful...

Filing for bankruptcy requires the preparation of about 40 pages worth of federal forms under Chapter 7 and about 45-50 under Chapter 13. You then file those forms with the Clerk of the Bankruptcy Court in your division. That kicks off the process and it is a roller-coaster ride from there.

Your best option is to hire a Bankruptcy Attorney. Not trying to be arrogant about is, but the Bankrutpcy Code, Rules, and caselaw aren't for the weak of heart or the part-time practitioner. You will find a lot of bankruptcy petition preparers in business around you as well ("File Bankruptcy for $199"). These guys are a disaster waiting to happen. By law, they are not allowed to give you legal advice because they are not attorneys. They also are not required to take any classes, read any books, or otherwise keep up with the law. They only fill out the forms, and mistakes can be costly.

You can expect, depending upon your area, Chapter 7 bankruptcy to cost you about $800 to 1200 in attorneys fees and about $300-500 in costs. Chapter 13 usually comes in around $3,500 in north Florida, with costs at about $300-500. Needless to say, these vary based upon the case because every case is unique to the individual debtor. But that should be a rough ballpark number for you.

It sounds like you are at the very beginning of your search and the end of your rope. why don't you check out our free materials on www.LaBellaLaw.com for more info. We may not practice in your district, but it may be a good place to start learning about the process.