Reference - Filing Bankruptcy Online
In today's world of technology, people can file for bankruptcy
online. The court has a federal database called PACER that can be
accessed online by paying a fee.
Many attorneys file cases online. Also, with the increase in usage
some courts actually permit attorneys to file cases on behalf of their
clients through online electronic access only, but pro se debtors are
typically not allowable to file via the PACER system.
There are several attorneys and services online. Most attorneys are
eager to find ways to help debtors via email, but clients have to
remember that they still need to sign some documents at some point in
time. Attorneys do not prefer to offer document preparation services for
debtors with online filing options because these put the attorney in an
awkward predicament. He or she then becomes liable to the court as if
representing the client throughout the entire process. Most attorneys
would prefer to meet each client in person, verify their identity, and
develop a personal level of comfort and assurance with each new client.
Attorneys may be held responsible by the court if they are found
guilty of negligence and documenting misrepresentations. For that
reason, few attorneys are enthusiastic to risk personal liability for
anyone who is reluctant to present themselves in person.
Attorneys will request a valid photo i.d. and permission to perform a
background check. Once the debtor sets up an attorney/client
relationship and signs the documents, few debtors are obligatory to be
present in court until the meeting of the creditors (11 U.S.C. Sec. 341)
in ordinary cases.
There are several services accessible online that can simplify the
procedure of filling bankruptcy without an attorney. These bankruptcy
sites will guide debtors through the process and help them to organize
all the forms online and then print them out to file with the bankruptcy
court. There are also paralegal sites that can allow debtors to file
their petition online.
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