Yes, you can file a bankruptcy case without an attorney. This is called filing “pro se.” The Bankruptcy Code allows individuals to represent themselves in both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 cases.

The better question, however, is should you?

For most people, the answer is no.

While bankruptcy forms are publicly available and filing may appear straightforward, bankruptcy law is far more complicated than simply filling out paperwork. A seemingly simple case can quickly become complicated, and mistakes can have permanent consequences—especially in a Chapter 7 bankruptcy.

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Just Because You Can Doesn’t Mean You Should

Every year, people attempt to save money by filing bankruptcy without an attorney. Many discover too late that they misunderstood the law, omitted important information, claimed the wrong exemptions, or inadvertently created problems that could have been easily avoided.

Unlike many legal proceedings, a Chapter 7 bankruptcy is generally irreversible once filed.

Once your petition is filed:

• Property becomes part of the bankruptcy estate.
• A Chapter 7 Trustee is appointed.
• Deadlines immediately begin running.
• Creditors receive notice of your filing.
• Your schedules are signed under penalty of perjury.

If you later realize you made a serious mistake, you usually cannot simply dismiss the case and start over. Courts generally do not permit debtors to voluntarily dismiss Chapter 7 cases simply because they regret filing or discover errors after the fact. In many situations, you are committed to the case whether you like it or not.

That makes getting it right the first time extremely important.

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Bankruptcy Law Is Much More Than Filling Out Forms

Many people believe bankruptcy consists of completing forms and listing debts.

In reality, an experienced bankruptcy attorney analyzes issues such as:

• Which property is exempt and which is not.
• Whether recent transfers could be challenged.
• Tax refunds.
• Lawsuits and personal injury claims.
• Inheritances.
• Business interests.
• Retirement accounts.
• Real estate.
• Domestic support obligations.
• Reaffirmation agreements.
• Vehicle leases.
• Preferences and fraudulent transfer issues.
• Means Test eligibility.
• Timing of the filing.
• Whether Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 is the better option.

Missing just one of these issues can cost far more than the attorney’s fee.

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A Simple Case Can Become Complicated Overnight

Many people think:

“I don’t own much. My case is easy.”

Unfortunately, many “easy” cases become difficult because of issues the debtor never knew existed.

Examples include:

• Receiving an unexpected inheritance after filing.
• Forgetting to list a creditor or asset.
• Receiving a tax refund.
• Selling property before filing.
• Repaying family members before bankruptcy.
• Having money in the bank on the filing date.
• Owning a business interest.
• Failing to properly value assets.
• Choosing the wrong exemption system.

An experienced bankruptcy attorney recognizes these issues before the case is filed—not after.

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Think of It Like Pulling Your Own Tooth

Technically…

You could pull your own tooth.

Most people would never dream of doing that.

Instead, they hire a dentist because the dentist has the education, training, experience, and specialized equipment to perform the procedure correctly.

Bankruptcy is much the same.

Could you represent yourself?

Absolutely.

Should you?

Probably not.

Hiring an experienced bankruptcy attorney dramatically reduces the chances of making expensive mistakes.

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The Statistics Are Clear: Pro Se Filers Are Less Likely to Receive a Discharge

Numerous studies have shown that debtors represented by experienced bankruptcy attorneys are far more likely to successfully complete their cases than those filing on their own.

One widely cited study by the Executive Office for United States Trustees found that:

• Represented Chapter 7 debtors received discharges in approximately 94–95% of cases.
• Pro se Chapter 7 debtors received discharges at significantly lower rates—often around 60–70%, depending on the jurisdiction and study.

The disparity is even greater in Chapter 13 cases, where self-represented debtors rarely complete a repayment plan successfully.

Other academic research has consistently found that debtors represented by counsel experience substantially better outcomes because attorneys:

• Properly prepare schedules.
• Avoid procedural errors.
• Meet filing deadlines.
• Attend hearings.
• Communicate with trustees.
• Resolve legal issues before they become fatal to the case.

The attorney’s fee often pays for itself simply by avoiding one significant mistake.

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The Cost of Hiring an Attorney Is Usually Very Reasonable

Many people hesitate to hire a bankruptcy attorney because they are already struggling financially.

Ironically, bankruptcy attorneys understand this better than anyone.

Most consumer bankruptcy attorneys offer:

• Reasonable flat fees.
• Free consultations.
• Payment plans before filing.
• Transparent pricing.

When compared to the amount of debt being discharged—often tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars—the attorney fee is usually a very small investment.

Attempting to save a modest attorney fee can become incredibly expensive if mistakes result in:

• Loss of property.
• Denial of discharge.
• Dismissal of the case.
• Allegations of fraud.
• Costly amendments.
• Litigation with the trustee.

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Experience Matters

Not all bankruptcy attorneys have the same level of experience.

When your financial future is at stake, experience matters.

Attorney Walter Metzen has devoted more than 30 years exclusively to consumer bankruptcy law and has personally handled thousands of Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 cases throughout Metropolitan Detroit.

That experience allows potential issues to be identified before they become serious problems.

Many situations that appear routine to a client are immediately recognized by an experienced bankruptcy attorney as issues requiring planning before the case is filed.

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Bankruptcy Is One Area Where Trying to Save Money Can Cost Much More

People often spend hundreds or thousands of dollars repairing mistakes that could have been prevented with proper legal advice before filing.

Bankruptcy is generally a once-in-several-years financial reset.

It is worth doing correctly.

For most people, hiring an experienced bankruptcy attorney is one of the best investments they can make in securing a successful financial fresh start.

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Schedule a Free Consultation

If you are considering filing Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy in Michigan, speak with an experienced bankruptcy attorney before attempting to file on your own.

Walter Metzen has over 30 years of bankruptcy experience and has personally guided thousands of Michigan families through the bankruptcy process.

A brief consultation can identify potential issues, explain your options, and help ensure that your bankruptcy is done correctly the first time.

Because when it comes to your financial future, experience is worth far more than the modest attorney fee.