Bankruptcy in California

California ( CA)
Average: $3,500
Last Updated: Mar 2026
Low Estimate
$1,500
Simple / Uncontested Cases
Average Cost
$3,500
Typical Bankruptcy Case
High Estimate
$8,000
Complex / Contested Cases
Cost Component Low Average High
Attorney Hourly Rate $275/hr $420/hr $700/hr
Total Cost Estimate $1,500 $3,500 $8,000
Court Filing Fee $338

What to Know About Bankruptcy Costs in California

Chapter 7 bankruptcy in California typically costs $1,500-$3,500 in attorney fees, plus $338 in court filing fees. Chapter 13 bankruptcy is more expensive, ranging from $3,500-$8,000 in attorney fees, plus $313 in filing fees.

Sources: United States Courts (uscourts.gov) - Ch.7: $338, Ch.13: $313

Compare Bankruptcy Costs in Nearby States

See how California compares to other West states for bankruptcy costs.

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