I often will get a call from a potential client asking what does it cost to file a bankruptcy? Well that answer depends on the type of case is it a Chapter 7 bankruptcy or a Chapter 13 bankruptcy. What kind of debt does the person have? Do they operate any kind of business, have assets, and what is their income etc.?

Typically, a Chapter 7 will cost anywhere from $600 to $2000 plus the filing fee. But most Chapter 7 case that I file are around $1200-$1500 for single person who files and for a married couple around $1500-$2300 with the $299 filing fee included and a credit report included in the fee. The filing fee is what the court charges to file a Chapter 7 bankruptcy. The more complicated the case generally the higher the fee is.

Often a potential client will call around for the lowest fee they can try to get. I strongly urge you not to do this, but people do this anyway. Would you want to go to the cheapest car mechanic or Doctor when something such as you car or body is at stake. I would hope not! Experience matters when picking a Chicago Bankruptcy Attorney, or anything for that matter when using you hard earned money, and I have filed numerous cases for clients over the years. I go through all of your options and bankruptcy is all I practice, and generally you get what you pay for!

My fee's are competitive with most firms out there and they are usually the same or lower for a routine Chicago Chapter 7. There are a lot of pitfalls for both an attorney who regularly doesn't practice bankruptcy and for a client who picks a cutrate attorney. It certainly doesn't bother me if a client calls around to get quotes or meets with other attorneys, but I give personal attention to each case. I actually build each petition. While everything may go fine with a cutrate attorney, I regularly go to Chapter 7 341 meetings where they do not. If an attorney fails to properly list property or exempt as required under the bankruptcy this can cause a loss of that asset to the trustee. In addition, I return your calls and I believe in good old fashioned legal advice whether or not that includes filing a bankruptcy in Chicago.

On a Chapter 13 bankruptcy, every office including myself generally charges a flat fee if they follow the model retention agreement in this district. Often times I will file with little or no money down depending on the situation except for the filing fee of $274 if the client has a good job and agrees to payroll deductions. What attorneys generally will differ on is how much they want up front toward their fee's in a Chapter 13. If you are interested in speaking with me I would be more than happy to give you a free consultation. Please call my office or email me at mgwagman@gmail.com or 312-489-8182. I have offices in Naperville, Palos Heights, and downtown Chicago. I routinely file cases in Will County, Dupage County, Cook County, Kendall County, and Lake County. I want you to lose your debt and keep your dignity!

Marc