Bankruptcies are public records, which technically means anyone can access the information. However, in most cases, personal bankruptcies are filed without anyone ever finding out. There are some isolated situations where your information might leak out to the public, but for the most part, your Chapter 13 filing should be between you and the courts.
At the Craig Black Law Firm, your privacy is a top priority. If you're considering filing, contact me at 678-888-1778 or complete my confidential contact form, and I'll be in touch.
Access to Bankruptcy Records
Bankruptcies are accessible, but someone has to put in an effort to find them. The Pacer Case Locator lets you search federal court records at a cost of 10 cents per page. You can also search your area's bankruptcy courts using the Voice Case Information System. Lastly, your district's court system will provide information about your bankruptcy upon request.
It's important to note that even if someone's ambitious enough to track down your bankruptcy, available information is limited. Searchers won't be given the amount that was discharged or the names of your creditors.
When Is Bankruptcy Information Released?
For most people, the information will never go beyond court records. However, for celebrities and other public figures, bankruptcy filings can make news. Even if you're an Average Joe, if someone is determined to smear your name, access to your bankruptcy records could provide an opportunity. In that case, news of your situation could become watercooler gossip.
At one time, it was routine for some newspapers to publish every local bankruptcy filing. Nosy neighbors could peruse the listed bankruptcies and potentially see your name. While some newspapers still publish bankruptcies, it's not nearly as common, and even where it's published, how many of your friends and neighbors peruse that section of the newspaper on a daily basis?
Creditor and Ex-Spouse Notifications
When you file Chapter 13, the courts will reach out to all of your creditors to alert them of the situation. This information likely won't reach nosy neighbors, but if you have local creditors, it could make its way to someone you know. An employee at your local bank or mortgage lender could see the information and recognize your name.
If you pay child support, the courts will alert the recipient of that child support of your bankruptcy. Any co-signers or co-debtors will also be notified. This means an ex could be the one person in your life who knows about the bankruptcy without you mentioning it.
How the Craig Black Law Firm Can Help
Bankruptcy can be a sensitive subject, so understandably, you'd want to maintain your privacy throughout the process. At the Craig Black Law Firm, I personally answer every phone call and work one-on-one with each of my clients. This helps reduce the risk that word will get out. If you're interested in filing Chapter 13, get in touch with me at 678-888-1778 or complete this confidential online form.
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