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.