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I need to file a simple Chapter 7 case in NYC but cannot afford a lawyer. How do I find a pro bono lawyer?
Anonymous6 views4 answers
I need to file a simple Chapter 7 case, but cannot afford a lawyer. Right now, I'm between freelance gigs, so I have no income at all. However, my yearly gross income is too high to qualify me for any free bankruptcy lawyer programs in NYC. I've called around to every resource I know, but none have pro bono lawyers. I'm very smart and could probably file myself, but would feel much better filing with a lawyer.
Would any lawyer here be willing to meet with me / take me on for free? From what I can tell, my case would be simple. I don't own property or a car, don't have many possessions, and pass the Means Test. I'm a resident of Queens in New York City.
"Simple bankruptcy case" is an oxymoron. If you have not yet been served with a law suit, you are far better off hiring a lawyer that will allow payments over time but be paid in full before you file. That way, you can get the creditors off your back and most probably prevent any law suits.
The word "simple" doesn't exist in Bankruptcy, The Bankruptcy Code is extremely complicated. And those people who file themselves, even if they believe their cases are "simple", often experience complications. It is not unusual for cases to be dismissed or suits or suits to be commenced against them and others. The key to success in a bankruptcy is to retain a very experienced and responsive bankruptcy lawyer who will meet with you and analyze the facts of the case and file at the best strategic time; prepare the petition, prepare you for the 341 meeting before the chapter 7 trustee who will examine you and attend the 341 meeting with you. strategically com. You didn't mention whether you are being subject to any suit. I suggest that you retain an experienced bankruptcy attorney and make installments to such person and file when you have fully paid. Or, alternatively, wait until you receive another gig and/or a tax refund. However, if you can do the former, (retaining the lawyer and making installments) that will be better as it is more helpful to you to have someone by your side, as things may happen, such as suits against. you. Best of luck, Barbie D. Lieber
As my colleague mention there is not such thing as a simple Chapter 7 Bankruptcy. You need to retain an attorney. If you can't afford an attorney you need to contact legal services and the local law school legal clinics. Good luck.
Can't afford a lawyer generally means someone doesn't really need to file and is fully protected by state exemption laws. People find the money to pay for things they perceive they really need - like an iPhone or cable TV. Hope this perspective helps.
