Fee update: This post was originally written in 2014 when our Chapter 7 attorney fee was $500. Our current flat fee is $1,000 for an individual and $1,500 for a joint filing (plus the court filing fee of $338, paid separately). The information below about what to look for when comparing bankruptcy attorney fees remains accurate and useful.
When people are struggling with debt, they naturally look for the lowest possible price. So when someone advertises bankruptcy for $500 in attorney fees, the question is obvious: is this for real? Can you really file Chapter 7 bankruptcy for that little?
The short answer is: sometimes yes, but the price alone is rarely the whole story. Here is what you actually need to know before you choose a bankruptcy attorney based on price.
What the Fee Covers — and What It Doesn’t
When you see a low advertised fee, the first thing to ask is what is included. Some fees cover the attorney’s time to prepare and file your petition. Others do not include:
- The court filing fee (currently $338 for Chapter 7, set by the federal court — every attorney charges this on top of their own fee)
- Credit counseling and debtor education certificates (required by law for every filer)
- Amendments if your petition needs to be corrected after filing
- Attendance at your court hearing
A flat fee that clearly covers all of the above is almost always a better deal than a low headline number with add-ons.
What You’re Really Paying For
Bankruptcy law is a federal process with precise rules. A mistake on your petition — omitting an asset, mis-listing income, or missing a deadline — can result in your case being dismissed, your discharge being denied, or in serious cases, an allegation of fraud. The attorney’s job is not just to fill out forms. It is to review your complete financial picture, spot issues before they become problems, and guide you through the process correctly the first time.
At Springer Law Firm, we review every document, ask the right questions, and prepare your petition carefully. We handle Chapter 7 cases for a flat $1,000 individual fee — no surprises. You can see exactly what is included on our fees page.
Do You Qualify?
Chapter 7 has income eligibility requirements. Before worrying about price, it is worth confirming you qualify to file. If your income is above the median for Illinois, you may need to file Chapter 13 instead, which has a different fee structure.
We Serve All of Northern Illinois — Remotely
Most of our clients never come to our office. We handle everything by phone, email, and Zoom. The only court appearance in most Chapter 7 cases is a short Zoom hearing with the trustee. If you are in Rockford, Winnebago County, or anywhere else in Northern Illinois, we can help you without you having to take time off work or drive across town.
The Bottom Line
A low advertised fee is worth investigating, but ask what it includes, whether the attorney actually attends your court hearing, and whether amendments are covered. Compare the total cost — not just the headline.
If you want a straight answer about what bankruptcy would cost in your situation and whether it makes sense, call us for a free consultation: (815) 312-4725. There is no obligation and no judgment — just honest information. You can also reach us online and we will get back to you the same day.
Ready for your fresh start?
A free, no-pressure phone consultation is the first step. Find out where you stand in about 15 minutes.