One of the first questions you will have in filing a bankruptcy in Florida is; how much will it cost? Most people who file bankruptcy can pay for the gas in the car to get to a lawyer. In the past bankruptcy filing were relatively simple keeping cost low and affordable. New statutes in bankruptcy increase significantly the documentation and preparation. Consequently the fees are now higher. Much of the fee you will pay is based on how complex your individual bankruptcy filing present for your bankruptcy lawyer Typically fees for people filing a Chapter 7 petition with a below the Florida median level will pay around $1700.00. The court itself charges 299.00 for filing fees. If your income is above the Florida median level expect to pay 300-400 more. Additionally you will pay for mandatory Bankruptcy counseling courses totaling approximately $100.00
Chapter 13 filings are much more complex and fees totaling $350.00 or more can and will be approved by Florida Bankruptcy judges. The bonus is you can may be able to pay some of your fees through your repayment plan as outlined by the court
Most Florida Bankruptcy lawyers understand your financial situation. Many will suggest a small retainer to start the process. This insures you can stop creditor calls systematically one by one as they make collection calls. Your lawyer will advise you to make one simple statement to stop the harassing interrogation style calls that creditors sometimes make.