If you want to file Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you will need to fill out and file some forms. If you do this without the help of a bankruptcy lawyer in Surprise, AZ, you will have to handle it all on your own. You need to make sure you do everything properly when you file Chapter 7 or you will not be approved. While you may think not being approved is the worse-case scenario, if you fail to accurately fill-out the paperwork and/or fail to accurately protect your property rights, you may lose property you would otherwise be able to keep!
With that in mind, it is important that you understand the process before you begin. Then, once you understand the process, you can file for Chapter 7 or convert to a Chapter 13 bankruptcy if the need arises.
Step 1 – Get Your Credit Counseling Certificate
The courts will not approve your Chapter 7 bankruptcy filing unless you have completed a credit counseling course. Once completed, you will attach the certificate to your original paperwork.
Step 2 – Fill Out All of the Forms
In order to file Chapter 7, you must fill out schedules A through J. You also need to fill out the Summary of Schedules, which is a summary of schedules A through J. You must fill out additional forms as well, including the Statement of Financial Affairs, a Statement of Intentions, and the Means Test. These are in-depth forms and it is important that you take your time to complete them thoroughly and accurately.
It is essential that all forms are filled out properly. Once competed, you must sign a declaration stating that all of the information you have provided is correct under penalty of perjury.
Step 3 – Create a Creditor Mailing List
The court will need a list of all of your creditors, along with their mailing addresses. That way, the court can contact the creditors in regards to your bankruptcy. Prepare the list and attach it to your paperwork.
Step 4 – File the Paperwork with the Court
Regardless of if you are filing for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you must take all of your paperwork to the court when you file. You will have to pay a filing fee when you turn in the paperwork. If you use a bankruptcy lawyer in Surprise, AZ, he will collect the filing fees from you and pay the court on your behalf.
While you may be able to file Chapter 7 on your own, it is much easier to go with an experienced bankruptcy lawyer in Surprise, AZ. Not only will the lawyer tell you if Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy is right for you, but he or she will also make sure that all of your paperwork is filled out properly. In a situation where you are living from paycheck to paycheck and hiding from creditors, every minute counts, so getting it right the first time is critical.
Disclaimer
This blog is intended as a general discussion of legal issues and not as a statement of fact, legal advice or a legal opinion. No attorney-client relationship is created by this blog. Do not act or rely upon law-related information in this communication without seeking the advice of an attorney licensed to practice in the relevant area.