Can I file a chapter 7 by myself or do I need a lawyer?
You are not required to have an attorney to file your Chapter 7 case. However, it is definitely advisable to hire an attorney for your Chapter 7 case. The Chapter 7 petition (paperwork) to be completed and filed with the bankruptcy court is very detailed and can be complicated for a person representing themselves. If you do not complete your petition properly your case could be dismissed for being incomplete, among other reasons.
If your case is dismissed, this means you did not obtain a discharge which means your debts are not wiped out.