Before you file

Bankruptcy can have serious long-term consequences. A lawyer can explain to you what may happen as a result of filing for bankruptcy and what your options are. If you do file for bankruptcy, a lawyer can help protect you, your family, your home and your possessions.
Find a lawyer [English] [Spanish]

	What is bankruptcy?
	Where do I file?
	What forms are required?
	How do I file?
	Risks of paying a non-attorney
	Bankruptcy Petition Preparer Guidelines

Individual debtors (not business debtors) must complete a Credit Counseling course before filing for bankruptcy (more info)

Approved Credit Counseling Agencies

Bankruptcy Basics Videos
[English] [Spanish]

After you file

What to look for once I've filed

  [English] [Spanish]

Individual debtors (not business debtors) must obtain a Financial Management certificate before a discharge can be granted (more info)

Approved financial management courses

Reaffirmation Hearing Information [English] [Spanish]

  California State Bar Pamphlets 

Hiring an Attorney
[English] [Spanish]

Learning About Debt
[English] [Spanish]

Problems With Your Attorney
[English] [Spanish]

General

What to do if being sued by a creditor [English] [Spanish]

Answer instructions for self-represented (pro se) debtors

Answer

Filing for bankruptcy without an attorney

Can you recommend an attorney?

Free or Low Cost Bankruptcy Help

Other Helpful Resources:

Public Counsel

Public Counsel - Useful Materials

Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles

Legal Aid Society of Orange County

Keep Your Home California

Bankruptcy Video:

Overview of Chapter 7 Bankruptcy and Alternatives to Bankruptcy

External Links

When  you click a link that leaves the Central District of California's website, you are going to websites created and maintained by other public and private organizations. These links are provided for the user's convenience. The Central District of California does not control or guarantee the accuracy, relevance, timeliness, or completeness of this outside information; nor does it control or guarantee the on-going availability, maintenance, or security of these Internet sites. Further, the inclusion of links is not intended to reflect their importance or to endorse any views expressed, or products or services offered, on these outside sites, or the organizations sponsoring the sites.