Bankruptcy Timeline

What is a Chapter 7 bankruptcy? How does it work? What will happen when I file for bankruptcy?

Client Intake

We offer a Free Initial consultation. Our Bankruptcy attorney will meet with you to discuss your options and to help you determine whether filing bankruptcy is your best option. Whether a bankruptcy is appropriate for you will depend on a number of factors. Documents such as pay-stubs, credit reports, tax returns and other legal documents may be needed at the first meeting with the attorney.

Financial Counseling Class

   Prior to filing the bankruptcy paperwork you will need to complete a Financial Counseling Class. The class must be approved by Southern District Bankruptcy Court of California. Our resources page  provides three approved counseling agencies.

Petition Filing

If we are retained we will prepare the Bankruptcy petition. Once your bankruptcy petition has been prepared you will meet with your attorney and review the bankruptcy paperwork. After you have reviewed the paperwork at least two times we will submit the bankruptcy directly to the Federal Bankruptcy Court. The Courts will then issue a 341 Hearing date approximately 30-45 days out.

341 Creditor Meeting

Generally, you will only have to make one appearance in front of the Bankruptcy Trustee at a Chapter 7 Creditor Meeting. Our lawyer will attend the hearing with you and prepare any additional paperwork your Trustee may require.

Financial Management Class

After the bankruptcy has filed a second class must be completed. 

Bankruptcy Discharge

The bankruptcy discharge acts a permanent Court order to  your creditors directing them to refrain from contacting or attempting to collect a debt against you. Often liens may remain if paperwork is not filed during your bankruptcy or such liens may not be eligible for discharge.

Free Initial Consultation* Evening and weekend appointments can be arranged*Low Flat Rates Available*