Filing for bankruptcy can be a daunting and overwhelming process, but having the right attorney by your side can make all the difference. A Chapter 7 attorney specializes in helping individuals navigate through Chapter 7 bankruptcy, also known as liquidation bankruptcy. In this blog post, we will explore how a Chapter 7 attorney works and the important role they play in guiding clients through the bankruptcy process.

Initial Consultation:

The first step in working with a Chapter 7 attorney is scheduling an initial consultation. During this meeting, the attorney will review your financial situation, including your income, assets, debts, and expenses. They will assess whether you qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy based on your financial circumstances. If you are eligible for Chapter 7, the attorney will explain the process to you and discuss what to expect throughout the proceedings.

Preparation of Bankruptcy Petition:

Once you have decided to move forward with filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, your attorney will begin preparing your bankruptcy petition. This document includes detailed information about your financial situation, such as a list of all your creditors, assets, income, and expenses. The attorney will ensure that all necessary paperwork is completed accurately and submitted to the court within the required deadlines.

Representation at Meeting of Creditors:

After filing your bankruptcy petition, you will be required to attend a Meeting of Creditors. Your Chapter 7 attorney will accompany you to this meeting and represent you before the trustee assigned to oversee your case. The trustee may ask questions about your financial affairs to verify the information provided in your petition. Your attorney will guide you on how to respond appropriately and advocate on your behalf during this meeting.

Discharge of Debts:

One of the primary goals of filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy is to obtain a discharge of debts. This means that certain unsecured debts, such as credit card balances or medical bills, are eliminated through the bankruptcy process. Your Chapter 7 attorney will work diligently to ensure that all eligible debts are included in the discharge order issued by the court. Once your debts are discharged, creditors are prohibited from attempting to collect on those debts in the future.

Post-Bankruptcy Counseling:

After receiving a discharge of debts in a Chapter 7 bankruptcy case, clients are often required to complete a financial management course as part of their obligations under bankruptcy law. Your attorney can guide in selecting an approved counseling agency and completing this requirement within the specified timeframe. By fulfilling this post-bankruptcy counseling requirement, clients can gain valuable knowledge and tools for managing their finances more effectively in the future.

For more info, contact a local company like The Law Offices of Everett Cook, P.C.