Smith Ortiz, P.C. Smith Ortiz, P.C.
Call for a Free Consultation
The Bankruptcy Process is Technical and Complex

Make Sure You Are Educated on the Laws Before Filing Pro Se

Do-It-Yourself Bankruptcy in Chicago

Requirements for Bankruptcy Pro Se in Illinois

Although you are legally entitled to file on your own, the United States Courts highly recommend that you hire an attorney to file for bankruptcy. They stress that the rules are technical, and failure to follow them precisely may affect your rights. You can read these recommendations for yourself. Legal representation is vital.

If you file bankruptcy pro se, you are expected to:

  • Know the Federal Rules of Bankruptcy Procedure
  • Know the local rules of the court where the case is filed
  • Know the United States Bankruptcy Code
  • List all your property and debts in your bankruptcy schedules (if you omit a debt from your list, it is possible that it will not be discharged)

It is important that your schedules are correct and complete. Individual bankruptcies are randomly audited for accuracy, truthfulness, and completeness of information, and if you make mistakes or omissions you could easily find yourself in serious legal trouble for bankruptcy fraud. Don't take chances with the outcome of your case by trying to do it yourself. Our attorney can help ensure that the information you provide to the court is accurate and complete.

Professional Assistance With Your Chicago Bankruptcy Filing

While corporations and partnerships are required to have an attorney to file for bankruptcy, individuals are allowed to file pro se. However, the bankruptcy process is technical and complex and a misstep can be detrimental to the successful outcome of your case. At Smith Ortiz, P.C., we have more than 26 years of combined legal practice, with backgrounds rich in tax, finance, and law experience.

Our knowledgeable lawyer can guide you through the complex process and help ensure that your documentation is correct and complete. We have helped many clients obtain relief from overwhelming debt through bankruptcy and other debt solutions. Our firm provides comprehensive representation, analyzing our cases with the full financial picture in mind, rather than focusing on bankruptcy alone. We make it a priority to provide debt relief solutions personally tailored to your situation.

Contact us for outstanding legal assistance in your bankruptcy filing, starting with an initial consultation!

 

Our Past Clients Share Their Stories

  • Smith Ortiz Was a Very Great Divorce Lawyer

    “He is so understanding with financial payments and very understanding with winning the case.”

    - F.S.

  • Excellent Service and Very Professional

    “Helped me with my chapter 7 bankruptcy all the way and explained everything detail by detail step by step.”

    - A.A.

  • Patient and Professional

    “I would like to thank you for all the effort, time, patience, professionalism, and effectiveness in helping me resolve this very important and uncomfortable situation in my life.”

    - M.M.

  • If you're looking for a great bankruptcy attorney, this is your firm.

    “They got the job done - fast, friendly, helpful & at a very good rate.”

    - C.D.

  • You all are the best lawyers in Illinois.

    “Thank you for the wonderful work that your company has done for me.”

    - D.W.