What is the initial up front costs that you have to pay an attorney to file Chapter 13 bankruptcy?
State – Arizona
Very straightforward case
I am an attorney in Maryland. Since the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act went into effect in October, 2005, there has been considerable concern from the attorneys (debtor and creditor), the trustees and the Judges over just what is allowed regarding fees in a bankruptcy. There used to be a 'no-look' fee for which noone blinked an eye; anything over that and attorneys must explain their fee. That fee is nearly double now – and attorneys are leaving the practice area in droves. The law is vague and unclear on many points. In fact, some interpret the law to state that attorneys are not supposed to tell you, over the phone, how much a bankruptcy costs.
To get your best answer, contact a consumer bankruptcy attorney in your area. Diane Drain at www.dianedrain.com is an extremely reputable practitioner in the Phoenix area.
Good luck!