Bankruptcy in Maine

A new bankruptcy law went into effect on October 17, 2005. This law makes it harder for a very low-income person to find a lawyer to help with a bankruptcy case. We have posted this information to help you figure out what to do.

First: Assess Your Financial Situation

First, you need to decide whether it really makes sense for you to go through the time and expense of filing for bankruptcy. And this is not always an easy question to answer. Try to talk to a lawyer who specializes in bankruptcy. This is the best way to get your questions answered. If you can't afford to do this, read Bankruptcy: Is it the right choice for you?

Second: Make sure that you are using all of the income supports available to you.

You may be getting further behind because you are not taking advantage of all available tax credits and income supplements. Use our Don't Leave Money on the Table! checklist to see if you could be enhancing your income with more credits, refunds and benefits.

Third: Learn More about How to File for Bankrutpcy

After you have read Bankruptcy: Is it the right choice for you? and taken all of the recommended steps, decide whether you still want to file for bankruptcy.

If you think that you want to file under Chapter 13 and have a steady income to support a payment plan, get a lawyer.

If you think that you need to "liquidate" under Chapter 7, you should still try to get a lawyer. But if you have exhausted all other alternatives, you can refer to our information on Filing for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy in Maine: Getting Started. There you'll find steps and forms for filing, as well as links to other reliable self-help information.

Notice Prepared by Pine Tree Legal  Assistance December 2005 Sometimes the laws change.  We cannot promise that this information is always up-to-date and correct.  If the date above is not this year, call us to see if there is an update. We provide this information as a public service.  It is not legal advice.  By sending you this information, we are not acting as your lawyer.  Always consult a lawyer, if you can, before taking legal action.

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