That is correct Hedwig... the new bankruptcy reform act. I'd bet filing Pro Se would be a little more expensive now and a little more difficult. Besides, the average Joe/Jane may not be confident enough to try on their own & would want to ensure they do it correctly the first time (not to say all attorney's do em' correctly). And then of course, there's the time factor one has to consider to learn to do it. I agree, probably not all that difficult, but I assume Pro Se Filings are not in the norm for reasons.
I think there's also a requirement for credit/budget counseling as well. The filing fees have also increased.
That was the good ole days when the BK mills kept fees at $500 to $750. Now even the mills have to charge $1,200 + because of the immense amount of work that goes into a "simple" Chapter 7.
There is a current requirement now for counseling. BK is not what it used to be; if you're considering filing, try to speak with counsel. There are resources out there if you cannot afford the typical BK attorney route.
