Self-Help Program

What Is the Self-Help Program?

The Self-Help Program connects individuals who are considering filing for bankruptcy — or who have recently filed a Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 case — with volunteer attorneys who can help answer their questions. The program is free of charge and provided as a courtesy by member attorneys of the Middle District Bankruptcy Bar Association.

How Does It Work?

Before meeting with a volunteer attorney, you will need to complete two things:

• A financial status questionnaire — your responses are only seen by the program administrator and the volunteer attorney assigned to your case
• Watch the educational video: Implications of Filing Without Attorney Representation

Plan for approximately one hour to complete both. This preparation helps the volunteer attorney make the most of your time together.

Once you've registered, your contact information will be shared with a volunteer attorney who will reach out to schedule a phone appointment.

What Can the Volunteer Attorney Help Me With?

During your one-hour phone appointment, the volunteer attorney can:

• Answer your questions about the bankruptcy process
• Help you understand your rights and responsibilities as a debtor
• Review potential issues in your situation based on what you share
• Let you know if you may qualify for low-cost or free legal assistance

What Are the Limitations?

There are a few important things to keep in mind:

• Volunteer attorney availability is not guaranteed
• The attorney will not prepare or complete paperwork on your behalf unless you hire them
• The appointment is limited to one hour, and a second appointment is not available through this program
• The attorney will not enter a formal appearance in your case unless you choose to hire them

What About Confidentiality?

Even though the volunteer attorney is not formally representing you, the same confidentiality rules apply as in any attorney-client relationship. Your information is protected under the Pennsylvania Rules of Professional Conduct.

Ready to Get Started?

Click here to complete the questionnaire and request your phone appointment.