Author Archives: Greg Tolland

One of the initial facts you learn in law school is: “only a fool has himself for a client”. It’s difficult to imagine a scenario that this truism applies more to than filing bankruptcy. Although individuals could represent themselves in bankruptcy court and file a bankruptcy case without having an attorney or “pro-se,” it is very tough to do so properly. It is vital that a bankruptcy case be planned, prepared and filed properly. The rules are very complex (the Code is over 500 pages long!), and I have observed first-hand many pro-se debtor’s have regrettably damaged their chances by filing by themselves. If you think filing bankruptcy is as easy as filling out some forms, paying a fee and then making one appearance in the courtroom, you might be putting your case in danger. It is important that a bankruptcy case be planned, prepared and filed correctly. The rules are very complex (the Code is over 500 pages long!), and I have witnessed first-hand many pro-se debtor’s have sadly damaged their chances by filing by themselves. If you believe filing bankruptcy is as easy as filling out some forms, paying a fee and then making one appearance in court, you might be putting your case in jeopardy. Continue reading →