Question Where to turn??

[treborah]

Hello,
I am in a pretty bad situation. I have been told by anyone and everyone that
I should pursue Chapter 7 bankruptcy, and that it would be a huge mistake to
do so without an attorney. However, I do not qualify for pro bono or reduced fee services -- but I have no funds at all. No savings, no 'stashed away' 401k, no rare coins, gold, or other such treasures. And no family members to turn to. Therefore, I simply cannot pay several thousand dollars to a lawyer, or anyone for that matter. I believe all of those people who have counseled
me to date, but I am stuck as to how to proceed. Does anyone have any sort of idea as to where I can go from here? If it makes a difference, I live in
New Hampshire. Any feedback would be much appreciated. Thanks...

[momofthree]

Are you employed?
Are you making payments on debt?

Many people who file simply stop making credit card payments for several months until they've saved up enough money to pay an attorney.

If you're unemployed, then you may want to consider holding off on bk until you are in a more stable situation...

[treborah]

Thank you for the response. I have been disabled from work for
5 years -- I collect SSI and have a small pension, which doesn't
even come close to covering my cc debt, whic is over $50,000,
but which makes me ineligible for any low-income help. I am not
paying on the $50,000 currently, but it still doesn't allow me to
save for an attorney, because I am overrun with other expenses,
health-related and more. So I feel really boxed in at this point....

[keepinitreal]

Initial consultations with most bankruptcy attorneys are free. Make a couple of appointments and don't be afraid to ask these questions of the attorneys. They've heard it all before and they have answers for you. Good luck!

[avmarathe3]

Consult with an attorney and ask him are you a candidate for CH.7. If he says yes. Do research on your own in very detail. Prepare all the paperwork, review all the paperwork. Some basic questions: Is your income equal to or less than state median income? Are your living/houshold expenses as described in the means test form are more than your income? The positive answers to these questions will provide you the clues for your eligibility. Have you paid any large sums to any friends/family members or expended on luxury items? Negetive answer to this question will provide you with another clue. Let us know your answers. I am not an attorney, and not giving you any legal advice. This is the common sense review of your situation and this is to help you to understand how bk works.