How to File for Bankruptcy

Filing Personal Bankruptcy

If you are planning to file bankruptcy, you will have options for completing the process. Do it yourself, or hire an attorney to do it for you. You may also be able to simply hire a document preparer, who is not a licensed attorney, to prepare the documents for you. The cost of that would probably be less than the cost of hiring an attorney, although a document preparer also will not be qualified to render advice, and should not.

Decide on the Proper Bankruptcy Chapter to File Under

Before filing bankruptcy, you must decide on the type of bankruptcy to file. There are two types for consumers, being Chapter 7 and Chapter 13. They are distinctly different from one another, and will require different filing and different handling. Chapter 7 bankruptcy is known as liquidation bankruptcy, with the import of that phrase being that in exchange for a release from your debts, you agree to give up your property. Release from debts through bankruptcy is called discharge, and there actually are certain types of debts which cannot be discharged in Chapter 7 bankruptcy. These include student loans, taxes, and domestic support obligations, including child support and alimony. Other nondischargeable debts include fines and court fees. Most people filing Chapter 7, however, are not confronted by nondischargeable debts, and all of their debts are wiped away. This includes credit cards, medical bills, and the personal liability side of secured debts like car loans.

Chapter 13 vs. Chapter 7

Debts are treated differently in Chapter 13, with that Chapter providing a broader discharge. Chapter 13 bankruptcy is essentially favored by the law, because in Chapter 13, the debtor is making an attempt to repay some or even all debts.

Do-it-Yourself Bankrtupcy Filing in Chapter 7

Filing Chapter 7 bankruptcy is actually a fairly simple process, requiring submission of a set of documents, payment of a fee, and generally only one appearance at Court. Actually, in Chapter 7 bankruptcy you generally do not appear before a judge, but instead simply attend a meeting which is presided over by a court official known as the trustee. The trustee administers your case from start to finish, and will examine you at the meeting concerning statements made in your filing. In truth, the examination is rote, with the trustee asking nearly all filers the same simple questions. As for property given up in Chapter 7, this will be only so-called non-exempt property, which will not include your home, your retirement account, your clothing and personal items, or even your car in most cases. If you are considering Chapter 7, you can safely assume that you can complete the process with no assistance. There are kits available at bookstores that will provide all required forms.

Using an Attorney in Chapter 13

Chapter 13 bankruptcy is eminently more complex, providing more protection for a debtor, but in exchange for a debtor's commitment to repayment of debts under a plan. The plan must be approved by the court, and it is detailed in its contents. Chapter 13 bankruptcy is a common recourse for people facing foreclosure on their homes, as that bankruptcy will allow them to repay arrearages and compel a mortgagor to accept that repayment. If you choose to file Chapter 13, you must expect to need an attorney to represent you in the process. Chapter 13 is far too complicated for a layperson to handle.

Before filing bankruptcy, you must decide on the type of bankruptcy to file