Filing for bankruptcy is often viewed as a “last resort” for those who are in financial distress–buying time they need to liquidate their assets or restructure their debt. This time is valuable, as it can help those who are struggling to pay off the debt at a more measured rate, while keeping further collective action at bay.
If you’re considering filing for bankruptcy, it’s important to be fully aware of all potential costs. Depending on your state and current needs, you can anticipate costs of hiring an attorney, filing fees, counseling and other related administrative elements throughout the bankruptcy process.
If you’re in a situation where bankruptcy is one of the only options, you may be wondering where you can secure the money to pay for these costs as you navigate your financial difficulties. Thankfully, you can evaluate several options to resolve your costs–depending on the different types of bankruptcy for which you may be filing.
Below, we’re exploring the different types of bankruptcy and the costs of filing for each. We’ll also be recommending different ways to help you to fully resolve any costs associated with your case, helping you to move toward a debt-free future.
What are the most common types of bankruptcy? (And what should I expect with each?)
The bankruptcy process normally begins with the person in need reaching out to an attorney who specializes in bankruptcy law. From there, the case will be evaluated and legal advice will be given–further indicating if bankruptcy application and processes are needed for that specific case.
Below, we’ve listed some of the most common types (otherwise known as “chapters” of bankruptcy), as well as their associated costs. This can help you to more accurately determine if bankruptcy is right for you and what costs you can expect with each.
Chapter 7 bankruptcy
Chapter 7 bankruptcy is called liquidation bankruptcy, as most of the person’s assets are sold to pay back creditors (in most cases.) However, there are some exceptions for certain personal items. You can find out if you qualify for an exception based on your specific situation.
Common exceptions covered under Chapter 7 include:
- Vehicles
- Pensions
- Clothing
- Home Equity
If you have questions about exceptions, it’s important to speak to a lawyer to determine what you’re legally eligible for.
Chapter 7 is normally one of the fastest ways that people can discharge their debts. The process can take anywhere from two to six months to resolve, depending on the complexity of the case.
What are the costs associated with Chapter 7 Bankruptcy?
Several costs are associated with Chapter 7 Bankruptcy. Some common approximated costs include:
- Bankruptcy filing fees: These are fees that go to the court and cover the administrative costs associated with filing your case. These can range anywhere from $300-$350 on average.
- Bankruptcy counseling courses: These informational courses cover topics such as money management and repayment and are required to finalize your filing. The charges for these courses are approximately $60 per course attendee.
- Attorney fees: Your attorney will be assisting you throughout the filing process and can represent you in court when needed. The costs of hiring an attorney can vary depending on the complexity of the case but average out to be at least $1,000 to cover your legal needs from start to finish.
In total, you should expect to spend about $2,000 (at a minimum) on your Chapter 7 bankruptcy case. This estimate may vary depending on your physical location and other related factors.
Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
This type of bankruptcy involves restructuring your debt and can allow you to retain certain property as outlined in your bankruptcy agreement. You’ll work with the court to create a payment plan that can last between three to five years, and you’ll continue to make payments until your unsecured debts can be considered discharged.
Payment plans for Chapter 13 can require you to work with a separate trustee, who oversees the payments made to creditors. They may be paid by commission, which can be anywhere up to 10% of the amount depending on your local governing laws. Your lawyer can help you to determine the approximate costs and how that will fit into the other costs associated with Chapter 13.
What are the costs associated with Chapter 13 Bankruptcy?
Several costs are associated with this type of bankruptcy, including:
- Administrative/Filing Fees: These are generally required by the court to submit and process your case and can range between $250-$350.
- Credit Counseling Fees: As with Chapter 7 Bankruptcy cases, these courses are required to submit your filing–covering repayment and debt topics. The average cost of these courses is approximately $60+ per attendee.
- Attorney Fees: Attorney fees can vary depending on the demands of your unique case. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere between $1,000-$4,000+ depending on your case.The average cost of a Chapter 13 bankruptcy can range between $3,000-$4,000. It’s best to consult an attorney to determine how much you may be eligible for.
Looking for bankruptcy support?
Ascent Law offers comprehensive legal representation and assistance in filing your bankruptcy case. For more information and to book your FREE intro call, please visit our website. We look forward to serving you soon!
Salt Lake City
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Salt Lake City, Utah
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|---|---|
| City of Salt Lake City[1] | |
Clockwise from top: The skyline in July 2011, Utah State Capitol, TRAX, Union Pacific Depot, the Block U, the City-County Building, and the Salt Lake Temple
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| Nickname:
“The Crossroads of the West”
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Interactive map of Salt Lake City
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| Coordinates: 40°45′39″N 111°53′28″WCoordinates: 40°45′39″N 111°53′28″W | |
| Country |  United States |
| State | Utah |
| County | Salt Lake |
| Platted | 1857[2] |
| Named for | Great Salt Lake |
| Government
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| • Type | Strong Mayor–council |
| • Mayor | Erin Mendenhall (D) |
| Area | |
| • City | 110.81 sq mi (286.99 km2) |
| • Land | 110.34 sq mi (285.77 km2) |
| • Water | 0.47 sq mi (1.22 km2) |
| Elevation
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4,327 ft (1,288 m) |
| Population | |
| • City | 199,723 |
| • Rank | 122nd in the United States 1st in Utah |
| • Density | 1,797.52/sq mi (701.84/km2) |
| • Urban
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1,021,243 (US: 42nd) |
| • Metro
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1,257,936 (US: 47th) |
| • CSA
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2,606,548 (US: 22nd) |
| Demonym | Salt Laker[5] |
| Time zone | UTC−7 (Mountain) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC−6 |
| ZIP Codes | |
| Area codes | 801, 385 |
| FIPS code | 49-67000[7] |
| GNIS feature ID | 1454997[8] |
| Major airport | Salt Lake City International Airport |
| Website | Salt Lake City Government |
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Salt Lake City (often shortened to Salt Lake and abbreviated as SLC) is the capital and most populous city of Utah, as well as the seat of Salt Lake County, the most populous county in Utah. With a population of 199,723 in 2020,[10] the city is the core of the Salt Lake City metropolitan area, which had a population of 1,257,936 at the 2020 census. Salt Lake City is further situated within a larger metropolis known as the Salt Lake City–Ogden–Provo Combined Statistical Area, a corridor of contiguous urban and suburban development stretched along a 120-mile (190 km) segment of the Wasatch Front, comprising a population of 2,606,548 (as of 2018 estimates),[11] making it the 22nd largest in the nation. It is also the central core of the larger of only two major urban areas located within the Great Basin (the other being Reno, Nevada).
Salt Lake City was founded July 24, 1847, by early pioneer settlers, led by Brigham Young, who were seeking to escape persecution they had experienced while living farther east. The Mormon pioneers, as they would come to be known, entered a semi-arid valley and immediately began planning and building an extensive irrigation network which could feed the population and foster future growth. Salt Lake City’s street grid system is based on a standard compass grid plan, with the southeast corner of Temple Square (the area containing the Salt Lake Temple in downtown Salt Lake City) serving as the origin of the Salt Lake meridian. Owing to its proximity to the Great Salt Lake, the city was originally named Great Salt Lake City. In 1868, the word “Great” was dropped from the city’s name.[12]
Immigration of international members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, mining booms, and the construction of the first transcontinental railroad initially brought economic growth, and the city was nicknamed “The Crossroads of the West”. It was traversed by the Lincoln Highway, the first transcontinental highway, in 1913. Two major cross-country freeways, I-15 and I-80, now intersect in the city. The city also has a belt route, I-215.
Salt Lake City has developed a strong tourist industry based primarily on skiing and outdoor recreation. It hosted the 2002 Winter Olympics. It is known for its politically progressive and diverse culture, which stands at contrast with the rest of the state’s conservative leanings.[13] It is home to a significant LGBT community and hosts the annual Utah Pride Festival.[14] It is the industrial banking center of the United States.[15] Salt Lake City and the surrounding area are also the location of several institutions of higher education including the state’s flagship research school, the University of Utah. Sustained drought in Utah has more recently strained Salt Lake City’s water security and caused the Great Salt Lake level drop to record low levels,[16][17] and impacting the state’s economy, of which the Wasatch Front area anchored by Salt Lake City constitutes 80%.[18]
About Salt Lake City, Utah
Neighborhoods in Salt Lake City, Utah
Poplar Grove, The Avenues, Ballpark, Lower Avenues, Downtown, Woodbury, Central City, Neighborhood House, Salt Lake City Community Development, Rio Grande, The Neighborhood Hive, Neighborhood Services, University Neighborhood Partners, Salt Lake City, Neighborhood Auto Service, Sunnyside Park, Building at Rear, 537 West 200 South, Washington Square Park, Area 51, Brigham Young Historic Park
Things To Do in Salt Lake City, Utah
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Reviews for Ascent Law LLC Salt Lake City, Utah
John Logan
We've gotten divorce and child custody work from Ascent Law since the beginning because of my ex. We love this divorce firm! Staff is gentle, friendly and skilled. Tanya knows her stuff. Nicole is good and Ryan is fun. Really, all the staff here are careful, kind and flexible. They always answer all my questions, explain what they're doing and provide great legal services. I personally think they are the best for divorce in Utah.
Jacqueline Hunting
I have had an excellent experience with Ascent Law, Michael Reed is an absolutely incredible attorney. He is 100% honest and straight forward through the entire legal process of things, he also has a wonderful approach to helping better understand certain agreements, rights, and legal standing of matters, to where it was easy to know whats going on the entire process. I appreciate the competency, genuine effort put forth, and assistance I received from Ascent and attorney Michael Reed, and I will be calling these guys if ever I have the need again for their legal assistance! 5star review Wonderful attorneys!
Anthony Ziegler
This review is well deserved for Ryan and Josh. New clients should know they are worth the 5 star rating we give them. We needed 2 sessions from them because of the complexity of the matter, but they are both very passionate about his helping others in need. My sister needed bankruptcy and I needed divorce. Sometimes they go hand in hand but a large shout out to this team - also Nicole is one of the sweetest people you ever did meet - she offered me warm cookies!
Thomas Parkin
Mike Anderson and his colleagues & staff are knowledgeable, attentive and caring. In a difficult and complex case that eventually went to trial, Mike was the voice of reason and the confidence I needed. His courtroom abilities are amazing and I felt his defense of me was incredible. His quick thinking and expertise allowed for a positive result when I felt the World was crumbling. His compassion, after the case, has helped me return to a good life. I trust Mike and his staff. They are friendly and very good at what they do.
Yeran Merry
I worked with Attorney Alex and Paralegal Ami in my divorce case. I got to know the team very well over the course of two years. I cannot think of a better team to have worked with. Ami and Alex are not only exceptional law professions who are very knowledgeable and thorough, they are also the best human beings who empathize with the emotions I was experiencing. Alex was conscious of my budget and worked efficiently to try to reduce unnecessary legal expenses. My case also involved some dealings with a foreign country that Alex and his team had previously dealt with. They did an amazing job addressing cultural barriers in a very respectful manner and did not fall short in quality of work or in standards when dealing with some of these new challenges. Ami deserves a medal for being extremely professional, calming, and compassionate when it is needed most. When you need family law attorneys, call this firm. I now feel I can move forward with grace and dignity.
