Cost to Filing Bankruptcy in Florida

Bankruptcy can be a difficult decision, but it may be the best way to get a fresh financial start. However, one of the most common questions people have is how much does it cost to file bankruptcy in Florida? The answer is that the total cost of bankruptcy filing depends on several factors, including attorney fees and other expenses.

Attorney Fees for Bankruptcy Filing in Florida:

Hiring an attorney to file for bankruptcy is highly recommended, as it can be a complex and confusing process. The cost of an attorney for a bankruptcy filing in Florida can range from $1,000 to $3,500 or more, depending on the complexity of your case, the type of bankruptcy you are filing (Chapter 7 or Chapter 13), and the attorney’s experience and reputation.

Factors That Can Impact the All-In Cost of Bankruptcy Filing:

In addition to attorney fees, there are other expenses involved in filing for bankruptcy. These include:

  1. Filing Fees: The filing fee for Chapter 7 bankruptcy is $338.00, while the fee for Chapter 13 bankruptcy is $313.00. These fees are paid to the court.
  2. Credit Counseling and Debtor Education: Before filing for bankruptcy, you are required to complete a credit counseling course and a debtor education course. These courses can cost anywhere from $10.00 to $50.00 each.
  3. Additional Attorney Fees: If your case is particularly complex, your attorney may charge additional fees for things like court appearances, document preparation, and extra legal research.
  4. Exemptions: When you file for bankruptcy, you may be able to claim certain exemptions to protect your assets from being liquidated. However, if you have assets that exceed the allowed exemptions, you may have to pay additional fees to keep them.
  5. Means Test: Depending on your income and expenses, you may be required to pass a means test to qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. If you fail the means test, you may have to file for Chapter 13 bankruptcy instead.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the total cost of bankruptcy filing in Florida can vary widely depending on your individual circumstances. Attorney fees are a significant expense, but other factors such as filing fees, credit counseling and debtor education, additional attorney fees, exemptions, and means testing can also impact the overall cost. It is important to work with an experienced bankruptcy attorney who can help you navigate the process and minimize your costs. If you are considering bankruptcy filing in Florida, consult with an attorney to get a better idea of the total cost and what to expect.

Please feel free to reach out for a free consultation by emailing info@tejeslaw.com, calling (407) 734-5166 or using this link to schedule an appointment yourself.

Sources:

Filing Fees: United States Courts – Bankruptcy Fees

  1. https://www.uscourts.gov/services-forms/bankruptcy/bankruptcy-fees

Credit Counseling and Debtor Education: United States Department of Justice – Approved Credit Counseling and Debtor Education Agencies

  1. https://www.justice.gov/ust/list-credit-counseling-agencies-approved-pursuant-11-usc-111

Additional Attorney Fees: Nolo – How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Bankruptcy Attorney?

  1. https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/what-does-it-cost-to-hire-a-bankruptcy-lawyer.html

Exemptions: Florida Legislature – Florida Statutes, Section 222.25 – Personal property exemptions

  1. http://www.leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0200-0299/0222/Sections/0222.25.html

Means Test: United States Trustee Program – Means Testing

  1. https://www.justice.gov/ust/means-testing

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