When you’re already struggling with debts and have decided you need to file bankruptcy, having to pay more money to start legal proceedings is an unpleasant thought. However, filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Fort Lauderdale costs less than you might think. Furthermore, working with an experienced attorney can save you money in the long term and help you regain your financial footing more quickly.
At Loan Lawyers, our Fort Lauderdale bankruptcy and debt defense attorneys believe transparency is crucial for anyone struggling to get their finances back in order. Following is information on how much bankruptcy in Florida costs.
Filing Fees Owed to the Court
If you’ve ever asked, “How much does it cost to file bankruptcy in Florida,” the first thing to know is that cost includes several components. First, there are the fees you have to pay to the bankruptcy court. According to the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida, the fee to start a bankruptcy petition under Chapter 7 is $338. You might also have to pay additional fees in certain circumstances, such as a fee to convert a Chapter 13 bankruptcy petition to a Chapter 7 case. You can find a summary of the court fees you might have to pay here.
How Much Does a Lawyer Charge for Chapter 7 in Florida?
Different lawyers charge different amounts for Chapter 7 bankruptcy cases. The cost to hire a bankruptcy attorney depends on how complex your case is, how much work your case needs, and other factors.
Many law firms charge flat fees for bankruptcy cases, which helps keep costs low for clients. Other firms will charge by the hour, particularly if they must do more work than usual on your behalf.
Always ask for a thorough explanation of what a law firm charges before you hire them for your Chapter 7 bankruptcy case. If they can’t or won’t provide you with a clear, easy-to-understand explanation of their fee structure, you should hire a different firm.
Credit Counseling Fees
One cost that people often overlook in Florida bankruptcy cases is the cost of a credit counseling course. Federal bankruptcy law requires you to take a credit or financial management course in most circumstances before the courts will conclude your case. The fee for the course varies but is typically less than $100. Your bankruptcy attorney can help find a low-cost credit counseling course that fits the legal requirements.
Contact Our Fort Lauderdale Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Lawyers for a Free Consultation
Hiring an experienced bankruptcy law firm like Loan Lawyers means you have a capable, professional legal team to manage your case and make things easier. We’ll handle all the paperwork and court proceedings in your case so you can focus on other things. We can help you save money long-term and find a faster route back to firm financial footing. Contact Loan Lawyers in Fort Lauderdale today for a free consultation.
