As set forth herein, individuals seeking bankruptcy protection in Utah should anticipate various mandatory expenses, including but not limited to court costs and legal representation.
Mandatory Court Costs
The U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Utah requires payment of $338 for Chapter 7 filings and $313 for Chapter 13 filings. These amounts are non-negotiable unless you qualify for a fee waiver (more on that below).
Choosing the right attorney matters. Utah lawyers typically charge between $750 and $3000 for Chapter 7 cases. I’ve seen some local bankruptcy clinics ask for $2,650 upfront. For Chapter 13, the court sets most attorney fees—usually $3,250 to $4,000.
Here’s the thing about extra costs – you can’t skip them. The court makes you take credit counseling before filing (about $10-50) and another course after filing (same price range). You might need to pay for credit reports and paperwork, too.
Money tight? Don’t panic. If you’re making less than 150% of what the feds consider poverty-level income, you might not have to pay those Chapter 7 court fees. Even if you don’t qualify for a complete waiver, the court often lets people pay in installments.
Shop around. Most bankruptcy attorneys will talk to you for free during your first meeting. Many understand that you’re dealing with money problems and offer payment plans. However, each case differs, and your specific situation will affect the final cost.
This notice provides general guidance only and should not be construed as legal advice. Individuals are strongly encouraged to seek counsel from qualified legal professionals regarding their circumstances.
