The Dangers of the DIY Bankruptcy

Given the popularity of channels like HGTV and all of those televised extreme home makeovers , it’s more than apparent that America is a nation full of  “do-it-yourselfers:” people drawn to the idea of going it alone in order to get it done right—their way, the first time.

As a result, it’s not surprising that in this self-supported culture there are so many services available online and offline that, for a fee, offer any DIY inclined consumer the opportunity to file their own bankruptcy. In fact, in these tough financial times, DIY bankruptcy petition “farms” are becoming increasingly popular for cash-strapped debtors who know that they need bankruptcy protections but don’t believe that they can afford an actual bankruptcy attorney.  Using these services could spell trouble for your self-perpetuated petition and your already beleaguered budget.  Here’s why:

Lack of Adequate Information
When you begin a DIY project for the first time like installing a light or fixing a leaky faucet or even building a home addition, it’s often helpful to have someone there to do more than just sell you the materials. A little instruction can go a long way in making the project a success. The same is true in bankruptcy. Unfortunately, many DIY bankruptcy mills advertise self-serve bankruptcy forms that a debtor may purchase with no instruction manual on how to fill in the forms, much less get the most out of their bankruptcy petition. In the end, mistakes in the bankruptcy forms and filings can cost already insolvent debtors more time and money, including problems with keeping creditors at bay in the future, and possible criminal action if you have omitted an asset or mis-categorized a transaction.

Not Taking Earned Exemptions
In addition to confusion about forms and filings, a lack of instruction can lead to debtors missing out on much needed bankruptcy exemption—often the difference between saving your precious property or losing it to a circling creditor. When dealing with a bankruptcy trustee or creditor claims, a bankruptcy attorney’s experience can be invaluable in determining which of your remaining assets are exempt from their ongoing demands and how to properly claim exemptions.

No Protections From Creditor Attacks
If you’re trying to save your home or car, your bankruptcy petition can be that much more important. However, debtors that go it alone for DIY petitions, face an uphill battle in enacting and enforcing automatic stay protections that help end creditor harassment, foreclosures and repossessions. In the alternative, a personal  bankruptcy filing that is accurately filed as Chapter 7 or Chapter 13, and closely monitored by an experienced bankruptcy attorney can quickly and easily save real and personal property that would otherwise be at the mercy of a trustee anxious to pay off debt and creditors anxious to reclaim what they claim to be theirs.

As a result of the intricacies and nuances of a modern bankruptcy filing, it is essential to consult with a qualified attorney. In most cases, the up front fee for filing is minimal, as little as $338.00. Why go through the headache of doing this on your own? A qualified bankruptcy attorney is important during the bankruptcy process to help you navigate any uncertain waters and work in your best interests during the duration of your personal bankruptcy experience. The bankruptcy attorneys at the Law Offices of John T. Orcutt offer a totally FREE debt consultation and now, more than ever, it’s time to take them up on their offer. Just call toll free to +1-833-627-0115, or during the off hours, you can make your own appointment right online at www.billsbills.com. Simply click on the yellow “FREE Consultation Now” button.