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Frequently Asked Questions
Considering bankruptcy? Do you have bankruptcy questions? Confused about the bankruptcy process? Unsure how it fits into your needs? Heard a rumor about what it involves, and wonder if it’s true? Below, please find some frequently asked bankruptcy questions that may be able to dispel some misconceptions and answer some early questions.
Please keep in mind that nothing can adequately substitute a meeting with an attorney to discuss your individual situation. Everyone’s case is different, and not everyone’s case direction will be the same. Some individuals seeking bankruptcy advice may be able to avoid it entirely, while others may take entirely different directions than previously thought. Please contact our office at your earliest convenience to set up an appointment to meet with an attorney to discuss how your situation is unique.
What is bankruptcy?
Bankruptcy is a legal process administered by the federal government. It provides debt relief to honest debtors in serious financial straits, usually from a combination of factors such as divorce, health problems, unemployment or credit card debt.
What is the difference between Chapters 7, 13 and 11?
In Chapter 7 bankruptcy, unsecured debts are discharged entirely, giving you a financial fresh start. In a Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you repay a portion of debts over three to five years. Chapter 11 bankruptcy provides creditor relief for businesses or individuals with very high incomes.
Do I qualify for bankruptcy?
You must meet the income criteria (means test) to qualify for a Chapter 7 discharge. If you earn too much, have mortgage arrears or need to protect non-exempt assets, you can file for Chapter 13 relief.
Do I need a lawyer to file bankruptcy?
Technically, no, but bankruptcy law is very complex. A bankruptcy attorney can maximize your debt relief, maximize the assets you keep and anticipate any problems that would delay or derail your petition.
Do I have to give up everything I own?
No! Under the property exemptions of bankruptcy, most of our clients do not lose any assets. In most cases, you can keep your car, your home, your retirement savings, personal property and even some valuables. If you have assets that are not exempt, you may have to delay Chapter 7, file for Chapter 13 reorganization, explore alternatives or forfeit those assets.
What debts are covered by bankruptcy?
Unsecured debts such as credit cards and medical bills can be discharged, as well as some judgments or back taxes. In general, you cannot discharge secured debt (loans secured by collateral), student loans, child support or alimony, recent taxes, criminal fines or personal injury judgments.
Can creditors still come after me?
On the day that your bankruptcy petition is filed with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, all creditors are subject to an automatic stay. All legal actions and debt collection must be halted, including foreclosure, repossession, wage garnishment and lawsuits. Creditors cannot continue to harass you or even contact you about your debts.
Can I pay off some debts and then discharge the rest?
No. You must declare all debts and you cannot repay family, friends or other favored creditors in the months before filing. The bankruptcy court will seek to recover any "preference payments."
Do my spouse and I both have to file for bankruptcy?
If your debts are jointly held, you may have to file bankruptcy together. If most debts are in one spouse's name, that spouse can file for bankruptcy separately to protect the assets and credit of the other spouse.
Can I save my house?
Filing for bankruptcy will stop foreclosure proceedings, at least temporarily. To discharge other debts through Chapter 7, you must be current on your mortgage. If you are behind on house payments, mortgage arrears can be rolled into a Chapter 13repayment plan and repaid over time.
What if I previously filed bankruptcy?
You are not barred from filing bankruptcy more than once, but there is a waiting period. Whether you are eligible to file again depends on which chapter you previously filed and which chapter you are now seeking.
Will everyone know that I went bankrupt?
Bankruptcy is public record and there is no way to seal your bankruptcy filing. However, consumer bankruptcies are not published in the newspaper. Other than your creditors, it is unlikely anyone will know.
Will I ever get credit again after bankruptcy?
Bankruptcy is actually an opportunity to rebuild good credit if you live within your means and pay bills on time. Most people receive new credit card offers within a few months of filing bankruptcy, and you may qualify for car loans and even a mortgage within a year or two. Bankruptcy does stay on your record for seven or 10 years, but it has less and less impact as time goes by.