If you’ve been researching Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you may have come across the term:
“No-look fee”
It sounds informal — but it’s actually an important concept in many bankruptcy courts.
Let’s break down what it means and why it matters.
📌 What Is a No-Look Fee?
A no-look fee is a standard attorney fee amount that a bankruptcy court has pre-approved for Chapter 13 cases.
It’s called “no-look” because:
👉 The court does not have to closely review (“look at”) a detailed breakdown of the attorney’s time and billing — as long as the fee stays within the approved limit.
In other words, if the attorney charges at or below the court’s no-look amount, the fee is presumed reasonable.
⚖️ Why Do Courts Use No-Look Fees?
Chapter 13 cases are structured and somewhat predictable. Most involve:
- Preparing the bankruptcy petition
- Drafting the Chapter 13 plan
- Attending the meeting of creditors
- Addressing trustee questions
- Handling confirmation hearings
Because these cases follow a similar process, many courts set a “standard” fee that reflects the typical amount of work involved.
This helps:
- Streamline the approval process
- Reduce administrative hearings
- Create predictability for clients
- Prevent excessive fee litigation
💰 How Much Are No-Look Fees?
The amount varies by district.
In many jurisdictions, no-look fees for Chapter 13 range between:
- $3,000 and $6,000
Some districts allow more in complex cases.
The exact number depends on:
- Local court rules
- Complexity of the case
- Whether the case involves business income
- Mortgage arrears
- Tax debt
- Prior bankruptcies
There is no single national number.
🧾 How Are No-Look Fees Paid?
One of the advantages of Chapter 13 is that attorney fees are often paid through the repayment plan.
Typically:
- A small portion is paid upfront.
- The remaining balance is paid over 3–5 years through the trustee.
This makes Chapter 13 more accessible for people who cannot afford to pay full attorney fees in advance.
🔍 Does “No-Look” Mean Flat Fee?
Not exactly — but often yes.
Many attorneys treat the no-look fee as a flat fee covering all normal services through plan confirmation.
However, certain services may not be included, such as:
- Defending adversary proceedings
- Filing motions to sell property
- Post-confirmation modifications
- Appeals
- Complex litigation
Always ask what is included in the fee agreement.
⚠️ What If the Case Is More Complicated?
If a case requires substantially more work than normal, an attorney can:
- Request additional fees
- File a fee application with detailed time records
- Seek court approval for compensation beyond the no-look amount
In that situation, the court will take a closer “look.”
🤔 Is a Higher Fee a Red Flag?
Not necessarily.
Some attorneys charge:
- The exact no-look fee
- Slightly less
- Or slightly more (with court approval)
The key question isn’t just the fee — it’s what you’re receiving in return:
- Experience
- Accessibility
- Proper planning
- Protection of your assets
- Long-term case management
Bankruptcy is a multi-year process in Chapter 13. You want competent representation.
📌 The Bottom Line
A no-look fee is a court-approved standard attorney fee in Chapter 13 cases that does not require detailed review if it stays within the set amount.
It creates predictability for both attorneys and clients — and often allows fees to be paid over time through the repayment plan.
If you’re considering Chapter 13, ask:
- What is the no-look fee in this district?
- What does the fee include?
- What could cost extra?
Understanding the fee structure upfront helps avoid surprises later.
