Filing Without an Attorney (Pro Se)

Individuals may appear "pro se" (without an attorney) in the bankruptcy court. Bankruptcy can be a very difficult area in which to proceed pro se. You may wish to obtain the services of an attorney. Only an attorney is authorized to give you legal advice regarding a bankruptcy case or proceeding. The clerk’s office is prohibited from giving legal advice.

To assist those Individuals who are considering filing bankruptcy and do not plan to retain the services of an attorney (Pro se litigants), the Court has compiled the document, Information for Bankruptcy Filers not Represented by an Attorney* designed to address questions you may have and to help you start the filing process.

* Be sure to reference this document frequently to keep your case on track.

This document contains the following information below which is also available on our website:

• A link to Administrative Office Official Form B200 - Required Lists, Schedules, Statements and Fees which includes a list of documents the debtor must file as well as fees and timetable information for each chapter
• General Warning to all Parties Proceeding without an Attorney
• Bankruptcy Basics (external link) information from the U.S. Courts website
• Chapter 7 Filing Requirements and Chapter 13 Filing Requirements
• Creditor Matrix Information for noticing and claims information
• Bankruptcy Fee Schedule
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Bankruptcy Terminology
• Instructions for waiving the Chapter 7 filing fee application
• Guidelines for applying to pay the petition filing fee in installments
• What to Do After You've Been Sued in an Adversary Proceeding