i have civil penalties against me, but i have nothing. can i file for bankruptcy?
Civil penalties that are true penalties (as opposed to compensation for a loss) are generally not dischargeable in bankruptcy, but there are exceptions. You should consult a bankruptcy lawyer as to the penalties in your particular case.
You can file for bankruptcy, but as Mr. Perry points out, the penalties may not be discharged. In that case, you would just be wasting your time.