I don't think the new laws are nearly strict enough, but then I'm one of those old-fashioned types who don't think 2 bathrooms in a house, or a phone line, or internet access is an entitlement. I see low-income housing in various areas that's tons nicer than a lot of regular housing these days. If I can't afford it, I live without it, or find a cheaper way to do it. For example, it constantly amazes me when people complain about creditors harassing them on the phone at home, when all they have to do is not have a phone! Real simple. I go weeks at a time without making a phone call. Internet I enjoy and use, but would get rid of it if I had to without a second thought, and go to the library more often.
I read your post under the assumption that you truly have no other options (no relatives to help, you've stopped all your credit accounts, gone down to eating rice and beans etc.). You can keep some assets, and it does vary by state. You will also have a new bill to your lawyer if you go that route, or to whomever you do the bankruptcy through. I have heard that going through the "counseling" services that negotiate lower rates and terms is just as bad as doing the other as far as credit reports go, but am not certain of that--looking at the TV commercials, it seems that there are still businesses around that will loan to anyone no matter what. I think if you own property, if at all possible you should sell it and go live in cheaper quarters for a while until things are paid off. You can move in with someone and do housekeeping/landscaping etc. in exchange for room and board, for example, and put any monies you earn from a job towards paying off your debts.
The suggestion to remove any cash and other assets in order to protect them, well, that is sad to see, on this board at least, because if you (anyone) incurs debt, you should pay it. Simple as that. If you loaned money to someone and they got out of paying it you would feel bad if you counted on that money to take care of your family, so.... It seems there is virtually no stigma attached to bankruptcy anymore, which is why often you see people think of it first, instead of last.
You might do better negotiating on your own with each creditor, especially hospitals (although again, there's something wrong, when instead of charging uniform lower rates to all, anyone with insurance or enough assets to attach is paying double or triple what someone else is for the same service).
If at all possible, please try to find some other way than bankruptcy to settle your obligations--you'll sleep better at night.