Your Step-by-Step Guide to Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
Chapter 7 bankruptcy helps you get rid of most of your debt so that you can make a fresh start. But the courts aren't quick to grant Chapter 7. You'll need to meet certain requirements and go through some clearly defined steps before your debts will be discharged.
Bankruptcy can be a great solution, but it's not the right choice for everyone. If you're considering bankruptcy, give me a call at 678-888-1778 or fill out my contact form, and I'll reach out.
Legal Counsel
An attorney isn't required to file bankruptcy, but it's highly recommended. An attorney doesn't just file the paperwork and represent you in front of the trustee. You'll get guidance through each step of the process, including determining whether Chapter 13 might be a better option for you.
Credit Counseling
If you've weighed all the options and decided bankruptcy is a good choice, the courts will require you to get credit counseling from an approved provider. You'll need to demonstrate that you've participated in this counseling, either in a group or one-on-one setting, no more than 180 days before filing.
Filing Paperwork
It's likely no surprise that bankruptcy filings come with a stack of paperwork. The list of bankruptcy forms is long, so it can help to have an attorney working with you on it. You'll need to list your assets, liabilities, and income, and you'll also have to attach documents like tax returns, pay stubs, W-2 forms, and proof of alimony or child support.
Once you have all your paperwork in order, you'll file with the federal bankruptcy court specific to your district. You'll be assigned a trustee who will handle your case moving forward. All your communications will be with that trustee.
Trustee Meeting
When you think about court cases, you may imagine standing in front of a judge in a courtroom. That's not how bankruptcy proceedings are handled, though. Instead, you'll meet with a trustee, who will go through all your paperwork and ask questions about anything that needs further clarification. This is also called a “meeting of creditors” because creditors can attend. In most cases, though, creditors aren't present for these meetings.
Debtor Education
Your learning isn't finished once your paperwork is submitted. In order to have your debts discharged, you'll need a certificate of completion from an approved debtor education provider. You can find the list of approved providers for your state on the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courtswebsite.
How the Craig Black Law Firm Can Help
The Craig Black Law Firm believes bankruptcy filings are a personal decision. For that reason, when you call my office, I'm the one who answers the phone. I'll provide one-on-one guidance through every step of the process, starting with deciding whether Chapter 7 is the right choice for your situation. Reach out to me by calling 678-888-1778 or by filling out this confidential online form.