Wanting to file in July

[BD33]

Hi Everyone,

I have a quick question. I am wanting to file ch.7 in July, I have a meeting setup with a credit counselor for the certificate. I am still unclear on the "Means Test", when it should be filled out and when and who is turned in to? I am filing pro se, I have done this before, but it was in the 90's before the new laws came out.

Thank you for any help....

[Phillymanhere]

Hey,
Frankly your question scares me--I think you need to do a lot more research before filing pro se if you don't understand who you turn the means test to.

The means test is part of the Chapter 7 filing. It's one of the lines you'll have to fill out, and then there's a schedule J that you have to fill out as well. And you file this with the bankruptcy court. I am kinda baffled that you're asking this.

You might wanna meet with 3 or 4 attorneys for free consultations. You can gain a lot of information from these sessions even if you "later" decide to file pro se. Definitely start reading everything on this board, particularly the "stickies."

good luck.

[morallyBR2]

Get a lawyer. When I retained my lawyer it was like lifting a ton of weight off of my shoulders.

[BD33]

Thank you both for the concern, but I am o.k. I filed chapter 7 back in 1999 by myself with no lawyer and had no problems. I have to file now because of a failed business.

I asked about the means test, becuase everything I have read, did not mention or I overlooked about this step. I understand otherwise, because it's pretty much the same from several years ago, comparing it to my previous paperwork.

I have also met with 3 lawyers, who charge way to much and do so little. I will never understand the prices charged to someone filing bankruptcy. This is a time when you are trying to relieve debt, not add to it.

Thank you for the response.

[MomIcantFindmy]

You might find the NOLO chapter 7 book useful. You could even request it from the library although in this economic downturn there might be a wait list for that book.