Having represented hundreds of clients in bankruptcy cases over the past 7 years, I understand that you probably do not have a lot of money set aside for legal fees.  In fact, it has been my experience that most of my clients are honest, hardworking people who have finally come to the realization that they have no choice but to file for bankruptcy. . . and further, that most people thinking about filing for bankruptcy are short of cash.

     The fees I charge at Stittleburg Law Office, are substantially less than the many thousands of dollars you would pay at an expensive downtown law firm. My fees are slightly more than what you might pay at a high volume bankruptcy mill firm that files hundreds of cases a month and turns responsibility of your case over to a legal assistant or a beginning lawyer with only weeks or months of experience.

     At my firm, you will meet with me and only me. I will sit with you, review your financial situation, and if it is determined that bankruptcy is the right path for you, I will personally prepare your case and remain available to you by phone or e-mail to answer your questions.  I will meet with you prior to your actual hearing so that I can prepare you for the questions that may be asked.  At your first hearing (341 Meeting of Creditors) you will not face the unpleasant situation of wandering around the four chaotic hearing rooms looking for your lawyer.  You will not face the embarrassment of having an overworked, inexperienced lawyer shout out your name to find you.

     And after your hearing, I will sit down with you to explain what has happened and what steps, if any, we must take to finalize your case.  Before you leave, and if it was a Chapter 13 case, I will hand you a written checklist itemizing any further action that we must take and I will personally follow-up with you by e-mail or phone to resolve any remaining issues. 

Chapter 7: in most cases, my fee for Chapter 7 cases will be between $1,500 and $2,500.  The Bankruptcy Court filing fee in all Chapter 7 cases is $299.00. Thus, your total cost for Chapter 7 in most cases will total around $1,799 to $2,799.  Click here to learn about some of the payment options I offer. In addition to the court filing fee and the attorney’s fees, you will incur costs relating to a credit counseling session that you will required to attend (via the internet) as well as costs to attend a debtor education course prior to you receiving a discharge. Costs for these courses vary so please call for information.

Chapter 13:  for Chapter 13 cases, Stittleburg Law Offices, LLC charges a base fee of $3,500, of which a modest amount can be paid up front, usually between $600 to $1,000, depending on what you can afford. The remainder of my fee must be paid through the three to five year Chapter 13 plan. If a case becomes unusually complicated or requires Court attendance at numerous hearings, it is possible that I will ask the Judge to approve additional fees.  The filing fee cost for Chapter 13 is $274, which must be paid up front. Click here to read about attorney fee payment options.

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