How to Review Your Bankruptcy Lawyer's Work

Yes. You have the right to review every document in your bankruptcy case file. You can access the court docket through PACER at pacer.uscourts.gov, visit the clerk's office in person, or request copies from your attorney. Under Model Rule 1.16(d), your attorney must surrender your file when representation ends.

Access your case docket through PACER and review the filed schedules and statements. Verify that all creditors are listed, asset values are accurate, income and expenses are correct, and the right exemptions were claimed. Compare the filed documents against your actual financial situation.

Possibly. Under 11 U.S.C. Section 329(b), bankruptcy courts can order disgorgement of excessive fees. If your attorney's fees exceed the reasonable value of services provided, you can ask the court to review the fees. You can also file a complaint with the U.S. Trustee's office or your state bar association.

Under 11 U.S.C. Section 329 and Bankruptcy Rule 2016, attorneys must file a statement disclosing all compensation paid or agreed to be paid in connection with your bankruptcy case. This disclosure is filed with the court and is part of the public record.

Contact your state bar association's disciplinary authority to file a formal complaint. You can also raise concerns with the U.S. Trustee's office in your district. For fee-related issues, you can ask the bankruptcy court to review the attorney's compensation under Section 329.