Why pay an attorney to file Ch 7 when you are unable to pay credit card debt and only have social security income and no assets?

If a person is judgment proof filing bankruptcy would not be needed. The reason this is done in the majority of the cases is (1) To protect the consumer in case sometime in the future they acquire nonexempt assets, such as an inheiritance. (2)To stop creditor/collector phone calls, mail, etc. (3) To avoid lawsuits, even if there are no assets some creditors will still file a suit, in the hopes of collecting at some future time. It is not necessary to use an attorney to file your Chapter 7. You can use a paralegal, or there are programs you can utilize through your state or city that will allow free or reduced costs in regards to filing. I think there are also payment plans available with the court as well for filing fees.