How Much Does a Bankruptcy Lawyer Cost?
Chapter 7 attorney fees are usually a flat fee paid before filing and commonly run from about one thousand to a few thousand dollars, depending on location and complexity, plus the $338 filing fee. Chapter 13 fees are usually higher, but much of the fee can be paid through the repayment plan, plus a $313 filing fee. Courts review fees, and many lawyers offer free consultations.
Bankruptcy is one area where legal fees are relatively predictable, because most lawyers charge flat fees and courts review them.
Court fees
| Chapter | Filing fee |
|---|---|
| Chapter 7 | $338 |
| Chapter 13 | $313 |
Fees effective December 1, 2023, per bankruptcy court fee schedules. Chapter 7 filers with low income can ask to pay in installments or for a fee waiver. Required credit counseling and debtor education courses have small fees, with waivers available.
Attorney fees
- Chapter 7: usually a flat fee paid in full before filing. Fees vary with location and complexity, such as a business, real estate, or creditor objections.
- Chapter 13: usually higher because the case lasts years. Many districts have a "no-look" or presumptive fee that judges approve without a detailed review, and much of the fee is paid through the plan rather than upfront.
Attorneys must disclose fees to the court, and courts can reduce excessive fees (11 U.S.C. 329). Bankruptcy lawyers who help consumers are "debt relief agencies" and must give required disclosures and written contracts (11 U.S.C. 526).
Why fees vary
- Local market rates
- Number of creditors and assets
- Business or rental income
- Pending lawsuits, foreclosure or garnishment
- Prior bankruptcies
- Need to fight creditor objections or adversary proceedings
Can you file without a lawyer?
Yes, but the courts caution that bankruptcy has long-term financial and legal consequences and that mistakes can cause you to lose property or your discharge (US Courts). Simple Chapter 7 cases are sometimes filed successfully without a lawyer; Chapter 13 without one rarely succeeds.
Bankruptcy petition preparers can type forms but cannot give legal advice.
Low-cost options
Legal aid organizations and law school clinics sometimes handle bankruptcies for free; see free legal help.
Compare with alternatives
Debt settlement companies often charge a percentage of enrolled debt and do not stop lawsuits; see is debt settlement worth it.
Most bankruptcy lawyers offer free consultations; ask for the total quote in writing.
Sources
Find bankruptcy lawyers near you
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This article is general legal information, not legal advice, and reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws differ by state and change over time; talk to a licensed attorney in your state about your situation.