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Legal Advice

Only attorneys can give legal advice.  By law petition preparers, Clerk's Office and chambers staff, and judges are prohibited from offering legal advice.  Due to the complexity of filings and the long-term financial and legal consequences of filing bankruptcy, individuals are encouraged to consult with a competent attorney.  

What constitutes legal advice?

• Explaining the meaning of a particular statutory provision or rule
• Giving an interpretation of case law
• Explaining the result of taking or not taking an action in a case
• Helping you complete forms, or advising you regarding what is legally required when a form elicits information from you
• Telling you whether jurisdiction is proper in a case
• Telling you whether a complaint properly presents a claim
• Providing advice on the best procedure to accomplish a particular goal
• Applying a rule or statute
• Explaining who should receive proper notice or service