Anyone do Ch13 themselves?

[Wantmypeace]

Does anyone do Ch13 themselves, or do I pretty much HAVE to have a lawyer do it for me? It looks like I'm heading that direction now...

[jlringling]

I have never seen anyone attempt it themselves successfully. In the St. Louis area, there are very few attorneys that practice in this area. The court rooms have a list of the main attorneys who practice in this area. Best wishes.

[Wantmypeace]

Yeah, I was thinking I probably HAVE to have an attorney for 13. Oh well! More money out the window!

[zeezee]

There is a section in the beginning of the forum called "pro se". I think that is for people who file on their own. Check it out.

[justbroke]

Some Districts try to force you into being represented (by attorney) when filing a Chapter 13. Filing Chapter 13 pro se, isn't for everyone. You need to be meticulous, accurate to a fault, steadfast, adventurous, read alot, understand and divine (almost parse though the legalese), and most of all... have guts.

Some Districts also provide resources for Chapter 13 pro se filers in the form of some pro bono assistance and other things.

I would not recommend filing Chapter 13 pro se for everyone. If your case is complex (anything like mine), then you should get a lawyer. If assets are involved and you're trying to protect property, even the more reason to retain a lawyer.

[Wantmypeace]

I have all those things you listed EXCEPT guts. LOL! I'm an English teacher, (MA in English Language and Lit) so I'm good with reading, analyzing, and being meticulous; however, guts are not my strong point. I do think our situation is somewhat complicated, as well, so I'm going to take everyone's advice and (if we DO file 13) get a lawyer...

I should have become an accountant instead...HA!

THANKS!