How can you begin with your bankruptcy? If you want to declare yourself bankrupt you have to start the process by filing the official bankruptcy forms. You must know the several methods on how to file for bankruptcy. Your objective is to get the most inexpensive bankruptcy solution and save huge money on legal expenses. This article will give you an overview of the different process of filing for bankruptcy. This article is not a substitute for legal advice, and it is not intended to give you specific legal advice on your financial situation.

The Safest Method

This is the easiest and safest way to file personal bankruptcy -- retain a bankruptcy lawyer full-time. The attorney will guide you through the whole bankruptcy process. It is the lawyer's job to evaluate, prepare and file your case. During the creditors meeting your attorney will handle all the tough issues that may arise. The only negative in using this method is that it costs more. You must find a way on how to filter attorneys the right way for you to get the best workable deal if you want to use this method.

The Hybrid Method

This method is the most followed technique in filing for bankruptcy. The hybrid method normally works best in filing Chapter 7. The key component here is to hire the services of a lawyer or law firm to prepare your forms. You need to pay the service provider with a fixed fee. Once they file your documents you're on your own. You can save large amount on legal fees because half of the solution is a do-it-yourself work. You should look for a bankruptcy preparation service that will also give you a mini seminar on how to manage the do-it-yourself portion as part of the package.

The Cheapest Method

This method is a full do-it-yourself (DIY) solution or "pro-se" filing. You need to educate yourself with the complexity of the bankruptcy laws. You can download the official bankruptcy forms free but it is usually easier to do this method if you buy an up-to-date bankruptcy book or a bankruptcy kit. If you try to ask instructions from your local court clerks they will say they can't help you. They will not give you advice on how to fill up the forms because that would be "practicing the law" -- a task reserved only for licensed bankruptcy lawyers.

What To Do Next?

Now that you know the different ways of filing personal bankruptcy, which method are you going to select? The new bankruptcy law does not require you to have an attorney, but it is in your best interest to seek the advice of an seasoned bankruptcy attorney. If you choose to file bankruptcy without the help of a lawyer, you will need to have to exhibit a lot of patience and diligence. Keep in mind and remember that when it comes to personal bankruptcy, you either liquidate your assets or you protect them.