Beware of non-lawyers helping you through bankruptcy
When people think of bankruptcy, they think of a life changing black mark. And indeed bankruptcy is. While it isn’t all as bad as it has been in previous generations, thanks to bankruptcy reform and a better understanding of consumer credit and financial risk, it is still stigmatized and should be avoided if possible. And, on the other side, Bankruptcy reform has also made it harder to declare bankruptcy if you actually do need it. Ironic, isn’t it? That something so shameful should also be hard to get through.
There are those who will tell you bankruptcy isn’t bad at all, that it is a quick and easy fix that can do everything to fix your finances. Typically, these individuals are not qualified lawyers informing you how to claim bankruptcy. They are storefront, unlicensed bankruptcy preparers who, for a comparatively small fee, can help you learn all the ins and outs of the bankruptcy process and even do your paperwork for you. Unfortunately, they are breaking the law.
It is illegal for anyone without the proper legal training (which would make them a lawyer) to consul others as to bankruptcy proceedings. They can work with your document, but only on the level of a typist for a maximum rate of seventy five dollars. Judges have been reporting huge rates of error-filled claims and massive courtroom oversights by those who went with the cut-rate options, and have even gone so far as to hold known prepares in contempt, fine them, or bring them up on charges. So if you have questions about something as big as bankruptcy, go with a lawyer. It will be worth the cost in the end.