Many people like to engage in do-it-yourself projects, and they have different motivations. Some individuals genuinely enjoy certain types of DIY challenges, and there are others who decide to go it alone because they want to save some money. There is nothing wrong with doing some things for yourself, and the information that can be easily obtained on the Internet makes it easier than it has ever been. However, you do have to know where the draw the line. You may feel confident replacing the alternator on your car, but do you think that you have the know-how to file for bankruptcy for yourself?

Technically speaking, you don’t have to have a license to practice law to file for bankruptcy. However, these are some rather complicated waters to try to navigate on your own as a layperson. First of all, do you know what type of bankruptcy to choose? You may hear about the fact that a Chapter 7 can make your credit card debts and medical bills disappear. This can be true, but are you sure you qualify for a Chapter 7? You have to pass a means test to qualify for this type of bankruptcy. If your income exceeds the median income in your state of residence, you won’t automatically qualify. A complex formula would be utilized to determine whether you are eligible to file a Chapter 7.

A Chapter 13 bankruptcy could be the right choice for you if you do not qualify for a Chapter 7. It can also be a better option if certain circumstances exist. For example, you cannot stop a foreclosure if you are behind on your mortgage through a Chapter 7 filing, but a Chapter 13 could allow you to repay the arrearage over time. When a Chapter 13 bankruptcy is filed, a complicated repayment plan is submitted to the court. This form of bankruptcy is so complex that there are some bankruptcy attorneys that do not handle them, so it is very unlikely that you could effectively file a Chapter 13 bankruptcy by yourself without any legal guidance.

We understand the fact that people who are experiencing financial difficulties are not particularly anxious to put out money to engage a bankruptcy lawyer. This is why we have established a very affordable fee structure, and our clients find that the value that we provide is extraordinary. Our firm offers free consultations to people in Portland, Eugene, Grants Pass, Bend, Tigard, and a few other Oregon cities, and we have locations in the state of Washington as well. If you would like to set up an appointment, send us a quick message through our contact page.