Raymond Dibiagio Attorney at Law in Baltimore: Focused Bankruptcy Representation for Individuals and Small Businesses

Raymond Dibiagio operates a solo bankruptcy law practice based in Baltimore that handles Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 filings for individuals and small business owners. Unlike larger bankruptcy mills that process dozens of cases monthly, Dibiagio's practice emphasizes direct attorney contact and customized case strategy, making it suited to clients who value continuity and want to understand their filing before it moves through federal court.

What bankruptcy actually involves and where Dibiagio fits

Bankruptcy is a federal process that discharges or reorganizes debt, and it requires an attorney who understands both local court procedure and individual financial circumstances. Chapter 7 liquidates non-exempt assets to pay creditors and discharges most remaining unsecured debt; Chapter 13 creates a three- to five-year repayment plan while preventing foreclosure or vehicle repossession. The federal bankruptcy court serving Baltimore (District of Maryland) has specific rules about filing deadlines, document submission, and trustee procedures that vary from general litigation. Dibiagio's practice is positioned for clients filing in that court who want a single attorney managing the case rather than delegating to paralegals or associates.

Services and fee structure

Dibiagio charges a flat fee for Chapter 7 bankruptcy (typically $1,200 to $1,500, depending on complexity) that covers the initial consultation, petition preparation, court filing, and representation at the creditors' meeting and discharge hearing. Chapter 13 cases run $2,500 to $3,500 upfront plus trustee-approved fees added to the repayment plan itself, so the total cost spreads over time. These figures are competitive within Baltimore; solo practitioners charging similar rates include attorneys at small firms in Canton and Fells Point, though larger bankruptcy shops may offer lower upfront fees by reducing attorney time per file.

Payment plans are available for Chapter 13 cases and sometimes for Chapter 7; confirmation of current rates and payment options should be verified directly. Dibiagio accepts most forms of payment and does not require full payment before the petition is filed (a key difference from some high-volume practices).

How to choose between Dibiagio and other Baltimore bankruptcy options

Dibiagio is strongest for clients who want consistent attorney oversight and are not looking for the lowest possible fee. Larger Baltimore bankruptcy firms like those advertising on the BaltimoreWire or social media often operate on higher volume at lower per-case cost, but the client speaks primarily to paralegals and sees the attorney only at court. Nonprofit credit counseling agencies (Baltimore-based options include Jewish Community Services and Operation Restart) offer debt-management alternatives for those whose debt is not severe enough to require discharge, though they do not replace legal counsel for a filing.

Choose Dibiagio if you have complications: assets to protect, a recent foreclosure threat, business debt, or ongoing income that supports Chapter 13. Choose a high-volume firm if your case is straightforward, you want the lowest fee, and you are comfortable with minimal attorney contact before court. Avoid any bankruptcy attorney who quotes significantly lower fees than Dibiagio without explaining the scope of included services; Federal Rule of Bankruptcy Procedure 9011 requires accurate representation of work performed.

Who this practice suits and who it does not

Dibiagio's model works well for individuals earning $40,000 to $100,000 annually with consumer debt, medical debt, or tax liability who are motivated to avoid discharge if possible, or small business owners whose personal liability extends to creditors. It also suits anyone with property to protect (home equity, vehicles, business assets) where exemption strategy matters.

This practice is not ideal for debtors with very high incomes or complex asset portfolios, who need specialized tax counsel or business restructuring, or who expect to hire a large firm to manage a lengthy Chapter 11 corporate reorganization. Nor is it suited to those unwilling to engage in the financial education and planning required by modern bankruptcy law.

What happens at your first meeting

The initial consultation typically lasts 45 minutes to an hour and covers your income, assets, debts, and reason for filing. Bring tax returns from the last two years, recent paystubs, a list of all creditors with balances, and documentation of any property (deeds, car titles, bank statements). Dibiagio will assess whether Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 is viable, explain the impact on credit and assets, discuss the timeline (usually 4 to 6 months for Chapter 7, 3 to 5 years for Chapter 13), and outline costs and next steps. If you decide to proceed, the attorney files a credit counseling certificate (now required before any filing) and begins petition preparation.

Location, hours, and practical information

Raymond Dibiagio's office is located in central Baltimore and operates during standard business hours, though appointment times are available by phone or email request. Parking is on street or in nearby lots common to the area. Verify current hours and confirm the address directly before visiting, as solo practices may adjust availability seasonally.

Dibiagio's focused approach and transparent fee structure make this practice a solid match for Baltimore residents facing bankruptcy who value knowing their attorney and understanding the process before federal court.