When financial issues become overwhelming, personal bankruptcy provides Florida residents with an economic fresh start. While eliminating a large portion of your consumer debt may sound tempting, you may also wonder about the bankruptcy costs and fees associated with the process. Many mistakenly believe that filing bankruptcy is free – but this is not the case.
Before you make the decision to file, it is essential to be familiar with the costs that are involved. This article will outline the fees that you can expect when pursuing a Florida bankruptcy. The second half of the article outlines the fee structure you can expect when you work with Richard V. Ellis.
Florida Filing and Attorney Fees
As of 2024, the filing fees in Florida are $338 for a Chapter 7 case and $313 for Chapter 13. Please note that fees are subject to change without notice. Be sure to confirm current filing fees at your initial consultation.
While you have every right to file for bankruptcy without attorney representation, your chances of a successful outcome are significantly improved when you have legal guidance from an experienced bankruptcy attorney. Attorney fees for bankruptcy vary depending on the Chapter filed, as well as how complex your case is and how much time will be required. (See Fee Schedule Below)
In a Chapter 7 bankruptcy, attorneys charge flat fees that are indicated up-front, either on their website or during a consultation. Chapter 13 bankruptcy typically involves a structured fee plan, with a portion of the fee paid at the outset and the rest paid over the course of the payment plan. (See Fee Schedule Below)
Financial Management and Credit Counseling Courses
As an essential requirement of the bankruptcy process, the filing party must attend and complete credit counseling and financial management courses. These affordable courses are available from court-approved agencies, with fees as low as $20 per course – and typically no higher than $50.
Miscellaneous Expenses
Depending on your case and choice of attorney, you may incur additional expenses, such as fees for ordering credit reports, fees for document copies, and notary services. While these are minor costs, if you are struggling to make ends meet, you should understand that one or more of these costs may arrive.
Richard V. Ellis – Fees for Bankruptcy Representation
While some fees are necessary, it may help to view bankruptcy as an investment in yourself and your financial future. At the law offices of Richard V. Ellis, we offer your initial consultation completely free of charge. During this conversation, we will help you decide whether to move forward with bankruptcy.
After your situation is discussed and evaluated, attorney Richard V. Ellis or attorney Bryan Ellis will provide you with a final quote and engagement letter. If you decide to hire us, you can expect the following.
Chapter 7 – Filing and Attorney Fees
- The Chapter 7 court filing fee is $338.
- No fee is required for the initial consultation.
- Attorney fees are $1,500.
- Clients are asked to pay an initial retainer fee of $500, with the remainder being paid in installments. All fees must be remitted prior to filing your petition.
- This fee covers the personal attendance of Richard Ellis or Bryan Ellis at your 341 Meeting of Creditors in addition to guidance.
Chapter 13 – Filing and Attorney Fees
- The Chapter 13 court filing fee is $313.
- No fee is required for the initial consultation.
- Attorney fees range from $3,900 to $4,500, depending on pay structure.
- Clients are asked to pay $750 upfront and up to 50% of fees prior to filing.
- The remainder of the fee can be paid via monthly Trustee payments.
- As in a Chapter 7 filing, the fee covers attendance at the Meeting of Creditors.
Call the law offices of Richard Ellis today to learn more. We are here to help.
