Since 2006, the rate of bankruptcy filings in Maryland has increased drastically. This has been a nationwide phenomenon. Marylanders have been hit particularly hard by the economic crisis. For instance, the number of Chapter 7 filings in Maryland increased by 320% in the three years following 2006. Chapter 13 filings have also increased as evidenced by a 39% increase between 2006 and 2009 (i.e., there were 4,591 Chapter 13 filings in 2006 and by the end of 2009 6,390 Chapter 13 cases had been filed.)

Persons facing bankruptcy are particularly in need of legal expertise in order to navigate through the complexities of the bankruptcy system. Attorneys who volunteer for the Consumer Bankruptcy Pro Bono Project will receive a reduced fee training in Chapter 7 and 13 Bankruptcy Law and in return will be obligated to accept one pro bono consumer bankruptcy case or serve at least six hours at the Debtor Assistance Project.

Attorneys can receive the Nuts & Bolts of Consumer Bankruptcy training through this live training session. To participate, download the Consumer Bankruptcy Project Registration and Training Form for the appropriate class and return it to the Pro Bono Resource Center of Maryland.

If you are not contacted by the Pro Bono Resource Center of Maryland, Inc. within one business day please contact PBRC in order to ensure receipt of your registration form.