A division of McCue Law Office

Bankruptcy FAQs

Find answers to your bankruptcy questions

Not every bankruptcy case is complicated, and you can file without an attorney. But bankruptcy can be a difficult, emotional process — our attorneys have decades of experience and can help it move more smoothly. Schedule a free consultation with McCue Law Office in Bangor today.

What you can expect from your bankruptcy attorney:

  • Sound legal advice
  • Help preparing and filing paperwork
  • Representation at hearings
  • Clarification on the bankruptcy process
  • Professionalism and experience with bankruptcy law

Bankruptcy FAQs

Every situation is unique — here are answers to a few of the more general questions we hear.

Can the bankruptcy court filing fee be waived?

The court can waive the filing fee for Chapter 7 bankruptcy (currently $335) if your income is low enough. A waiver of the Chapter 13 filing fee (currently $310) is not available.

What paperwork do I need to file?
  • Six months of pay stubs, or the current year's award letter
  • Six months of bank statements for all accounts
  • Two years of tax returns
  • Copies of your bills

There may be more paperwork depending on your individual circumstances.

Are student loans and tax debts dischargeable?

Student loans can be discharged only in exceptional circumstances. Tax debt can sometimes be discharged, depending on how old the debt is and whether you filed your returns when they were due.

Do I have to pay in full, or do you take payments?

We accept payments. You can refer your creditors to us once you've paid $500. We can't file your bankruptcy with the court until you've paid in full for Chapter 7, or paid the full retainer for Chapter 13.

Can I keep my home or car in bankruptcy?

In Chapter 7, depending on the value, you'll normally be allowed to keep a vehicle and/or home as long as your payments are up to date. In Chapter 13, you pay your current mortgage directly to the mortgage company.

When does McCue Law Office start dealing with my creditors?

As soon as the required initial non-refundable deposit is made, your attorney will begin representation. Your bankruptcy filing can't take place until you've paid in full.

How much does it cost to file bankruptcy?
ChapterCost
Chapter 7$2,000, paid in affordable installments; $300 non-refundable down payment required
Chapter 11Varies depending on the complexity of the case
Chapter 13Average retainer around $3,500, with the remainder built into the repayment plan

Still have questions?

If these FAQs didn’t cover your situation, visit our bankruptcy overview page or talk to us directly — your first consultation is free.

Back to Bankruptcy Overview