Think Twice Before Going It Alone
In a world full of YouTube tutorials and DIY advice, it’s natural to wonder if you can file for bankruptcy without a lawyer. Many Louisiana residents search online for how to “file bankruptcy for free.” But while you can attempt to file on your own, the real question is: Should you?
At Simon Fitzgerald LLC, Louisiana’s oldest and most trusted bankruptcy law firm, we’ve helped more than 25,000 individuals and families across the state find lasting debt relief. What looks like a cost-saving move often leads to greater financial loss, stress, and irreversible mistakes.
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Take the first step toward real financial freedom. Schedule your FREE consultation today and talk to a local bankruptcy expert who understands what you’re going through.
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The Real Risks of Filing Bankruptcy on Your Own
Bankruptcy is a powerful legal tool—but it only works if it’s done right. Filing on your own, known as filing pro se, often leads to serious issues:
- Loss of Property: Without understanding Louisiana exemption laws, you may lose your home, car, or tax refund. ([retain essential property])
- Wrong Chapter Selection: Filing under the wrong chapter (7 vs. 13) may mean disqualification or asset forfeiture. ([most common form of personal bankruptcy])
- Disclosure Mistakes: Missing assets, debts, or lawsuits could result in case dismissal or even criminal fraud allegations. ([some debts remain], [Most student loans])
- No Automatic Stay: If the paperwork is filed incorrectly, creditors can continue to garnish wages or repossess your property.
- Bad Faith Filing: Courts may dismiss your case if they think you’re manipulating the system, even if unintentionally.
- Missed Deadlines: Bankruptcy involves court-mandated deadlines. One mistake can stop your case.
Even working with a petition preparer or non-bankruptcy lawyer may result in incomplete filings and zero legal protection. These providers cannot give legal advice, and you’re on your own when problems arise.
Bankruptcy Isn’t Just Paperwork—It’s Strategy
Filing for bankruptcy means more than filling out forms. It involves legal choices that can protect or jeopardize your financial future.
Here are a few things only a seasoned attorney can help you navigate:
- Determining the right chapter based on your debt, income, and goals
- Understanding which assets you can legally protect
- Managing the Louisiana Means Test to qualify for Chapter 7
- Building a Chapter 13 repayment plan that courts and trustees will approve
- Ensuring you have enough disposable income to comply with Chapter 13 rules
- Knowing that Chapter 13 without an attorney is especially challenging to complete without guidance
✅ Chapter 7 vs. Chapter 13: Key Differences
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy (aka “liquidation bankruptcy”):
Discharges most unsecured debts in 4–6 months
- You must pass the Means Test
- You may risk losing non-exempt property
- Filing fee: $338
- Credit Counseling Cost: $15
- Financial Management Cost: $15
- Upfront legal fees: ~$1,200–$2,200
- Total: ~$1,568–$2,568
Chapter 13 Bankruptcy (aka “wage earner’s plan”):
- Allows you to keep all your property
- Spreads repayment over 3–5 years
- Attorney fees can be $0 down, paid through your plan
- Upfront costs: ~$330 for filing, credit counseling, and credit report
Want to learn more? Check our full breakdown of the fees and costs of filing for bankruptcy in Louisiana
Hypothetical Stories Based on Real People and Real Relief.
💬 Meet Alex
Alex is a young professional from Lafayette, LA, who is facing overwhelming debt from medical bills and credit cards. He assumed hiring a bankruptcy attorney was unaffordable. After wage garnishment began, Alex finally called us. We helped them file Chapter 13 with $0 down in legal fees, stopping collections immediately and protecting their car and paycheck. Click here to learn more: Overcoming Concerns Through Bankruptcy—Blog
💬 Meet Michael
Michael is a self-employed business owner from Monroe, LA. Believing he could file on his own, he chose Chapter 7. But it was the wrong chapter for his financial goals. His case was dismissed, and he nearly lost essential business tools. We stepped in and restructured his filing under Chapter 13, allowing him to keep operating his business. Click here to learn more: Overcoming Concerns Through Bankruptcy—Blog.
FAQs About Filing for Free
❓ Is it legal to file for bankruptcy on my own?
Yes. But legal doesn’t mean advisable. Pro se filers rarely complete the process successfully and often lose more than they save.
❓ Will I save money by avoiding attorney fees?
Initially, maybe. But one filing mistake can cost you your car, home, tax refund, or your entire case. Our firm offers payment plans to make filing affordable.
❓ Can I just hire a document preparer?
No. They are not allowed to provide legal advice. If something goes wrong, you’re on your own in court.
❓ Do you offer any free services?
Yes. We offer free consultations and, in some cases, can assist you in applying for court fee waivers.
❓ Is Chapter 13 a good option if I can’t afford Chapter 7?
Often, yes. Chapter 13 lets you pay your legal fees over time and protect your property. It’s ideal for wage earners who want to restructure debt.
Why Choose Simon Fitzgerald LLC?
Working with an experienced bankruptcy attorney is one of the smartest decisions you can make when facing overwhelming debt.
Simon Fitzgerald LLC has been helping Louisiana families overcome debt since 1907. We are:
- The oldest bankruptcy law firm in Louisiana
- Focused 100% on bankruptcy law
- Known for innovative solutions tailored to your situation
- Trusted by over 25,000 clients
- Located in Shreveport, Lafayette, Alexandria, Monroe, and Lake Charles
🛡️ Legal protection. Personalized plans. Real results.
You deserve relief without risking your future. That’s what we provide.
📞 Take Control Today
Ready to start? Fill out our online consultation form or call the office nearest you to speak with someone who understands. Your consultation is free, and your path to peace of mind starts now.
