Commencing a Bankruptcy Case

(a) Individual Filers. Only an individual may file a voluntary bankruptcy petition or appear in court without being represented by a licensed attorney. All other entities, including 1 partnerships, corporations and trusts may not, without counsel, appear in court or sign pleadings, including the petition. If a debtor that is not an individual files a petition without legal counsel, the Presiding Judge may dismiss the case without notice, either sua sponte, or on motion of a party in interest.

(b) Responsibility of Pro Se Individuals. Any individual proceeding on the individual’s own behalf is considered pro se. Individuals proceeding pro se should read and must follow the Local Bankruptcy Rules, the Federal Rules of Bankruptcy Procedure, and the Bankruptcy Code. (c) Identification and Social Security Card.

Unless excused by order of the court, all petitions filed by an individual debtor shall include copies of (1) picture identification card and (2) the debtor's social security card. The Bankruptcy Clerk must restrict public access to a debtor’s picture identification card and social security card filed in accordance with this local rule.