How do I file for bankruptcy in the state of California? What would I need to do?

You need to talk to a Lawyer and then decide what Chapter of Bankruptcy you wish to file for which chapter you qualify for :) There are several types and chapters for each, personal, business......

Thanks. How much will it cost to talk to a lawyer about this? I'm trying to file a personal bankruptcy.

Thanks,
Billy

Personal bankruptcy is commenced by an individual filing Chapter 7, 11, 12 or 13. The most common is Chapter 7. The debtor is allowed to exempt certain property from liquidation by the trustee including homesteads, household furniture and furnishings, jewelry, clothings, interests in an automobile, insurance policies, a wildcard exemption of $15,000 and other assets. The "automatic stay" goes into effect immediately upon the filing. This stay prohibits any act to collect money or take property from the debtor. It stops wage garnishments, foreclosures, repossessions, and the like. The stay usually remains in effect throughout the case.

Contact an attorney that specializes in bankruptcy law in order to file a petition with the court. The initial consultation is usually free.

Or visit this website to download a bankruptcy guide and all the official bankruptcy forms for filing in the state of California:

http://www.uslegalforms.com/california-bankruptcy-forms.htm