Filing for bankruptcy may be done without an attorney, however, the Court highly recommends that you retain the services of an attorney to guide you through the process.
For legal assistance information, click HERE.
Many typing and transcribing companies advertise as Bankruptcy Petition Preparers. For a fee, they will complete your bankruptcy forms with information you provide. Bankruptcy Petition Preparers are NOT attorneys and may NOT give legal advice.
The Bankruptcy Court Clerk's Office staff is prohibited by law from providing legal advice and cannot aid debtors in the completion of required forms. Only an attorney can give you legal advice.
- Do not staple or punch holes in documents
- Print documents on one side of the paper, only
- Documents should be printed on 8 1/2 X 11 inch paper
- Make sure all documents are legible, signed and dated
Visitors must have a valid ID and must pass through a security screening before being granted entry to the courthouse
Electronic devices must remain at home or in your vehicle. Cell phones are not permitted in the Courthouses without a specific order from the presiding judge. Computers are not permitted in the Tampa and Jacksonville Courthouses. Please be advised that storage lockers are not available for the public at any Courthouse location
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Documents may be brought or mailed to the Court
When you file in
person, you will need:
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Photo ID
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Form of Payment: Certified check, money order or exact cash are accepted. No personal checks accepted nor can the Court make change
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Bankruptcy Forms
-
Do not staple or punch holes in documents
-
Print documents on one side of the paper only
-
Documents should be printed on 8 1/2 X 11 inch paper
- Make sure all documents are legible, signed and dated
When you file by
mail, you will need:
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Copy of your Photo ID
-
Form of Payment: Certified check or money order are accepted. Do no mail cash. Personal checks not accepted
-
Bankruptcy Forms
-
Do not staple or punch holes in documents
-
Print documents on one side of the paper only
-
Documents should be printed on 8 1/2 X 11 inch paper
- Make sure all documents are legible, signed and dated
- Intructions on filing specific types of motions HERE
- Motion form for bankruptcy cases HERE
Bankruptcy Basics Guide
Bankruptcy Basics Videos
Information from Debtors Required by
Chapter 7, 11 & 13 Trustees
Legal Assistance Information