How
do I begin Chapter 7 bankruptcy? Before filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy
you will want to put together a list of the people you owe, and how much you owe
them. We advise you to speak to a Bankruptcy
Attorney, as bankruptcy is a difficult legal process.
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Is Chapter 7
Bankruptcy available for anyone?
Yes. Anyone is eligible to file for Chapter
7 bankruptcy if they live, have property, or have a business in the United States.
There are, however, some exceptions, based on your income and the assets you own.
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How much will chapter 7 bankruptcy cost me? In total, the court
requires a case filing fee, a miscellaneous administrative fee and a trustee surcharge.
This price must be paid to the court in full upon filing. With court permission,
it may be available to pay in four installments. Your case may be dismissed if
you neglect to pay these fees. These fees vary by jurisdiction, but are usually
in the $300 to $400 range. In addition, if you use a bankruptcy attorney, they
will also require payment. Is there any paper work? Yes. In addition
to the petition, you will also need to fill out several schedules. These schedules
will include a schedule of assets and liabilities, executory contracts and unexpired
leases, current income and expenditures, exempt property, as well as a statement
of financial affairs. Speaking to your bankruptcy attorney is highly recommended
for compiling this paper work. Who will be in charge of the case? The
United States will select a neutral trustee to oversee the debtor's case, and
to liquidate their assets. Their main goal is to give the debtor a "fresh start"
by preventing creditors from accumulating debts. Will I ever meet with
the trustee? Yes. Approximately 20-40 days after the filing of the petition,
a creditors meeting will be called. Debtors must attend this meeting as it will
give creditors an opportunity to ask questions about the debtor's financial affairs
and property. The trustee will orally inspect the debtor to insure that they are
aware of the potential risks and effects on credit history. Prior to the meeting,
the debtor may be able to obtain the criteria in written form from the trustee,
so that they may better prepare themselves for the examination. What if
creditors continue to pursue legal action after I have filed for bankruptcy? Upon
filing for bankruptcy, an automatic stay will be placed on your property. Creditors
will be inhibited from contacting you to demand payment, or to pursue legal action.
How will the creditors be paid back? The debtor's nonexempt property
will be collected by the trustee and sold. The creditor is paid the value of the
sold property. Creditors who hold a lien are given top priority. Could
I file for chapter 7 bankruptcy on my own? Going through the process on
ones own would be extremely difficult. Finding a bankruptcy attorney is highly
recommended for your own protection.
For more information, search our site or the web:
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