Can You File Bankruptcy Without an Attorney?

Individuals may file pro se, but the U.S. Courts strongly recommend legal advice. Mistakes can affect rights and property; court employees and judges cannot give legal advice. A non-attorney petition preparer cannot give legal advice or represent you.

Before deciding

• Ask a qualified bankruptcy attorney or legal aid provider about eligibility, property, discharge exceptions, and alternatives. The court guidance links to ways to find legal help.
• Find your local bankruptcy court and check current filing fees, local rules, required forms, and payment options. Ask whether installments or a Chapter 7 fee waiver may be available; approval is not automatic.
• Review the DOJ counseling guidance. Pre-filing counseling and post-filing debtor education are separate courses, subject to limited exceptions. Use a provider approved for your district; the U.S. Courts page explains the Alabama and North Carolina provider lists.
• Gather accurate information on creditors, income, expenses and assets, and check your court’s forms and deadlines. Do not assume this checklist is a substitute for the rules.

Do not rely on an uncited dismissal-rate comparison or assume a case is simple enough to file alone. A qualified attorney can assess individual risks.