how long does it take to be a bankrutpcy lawyer

by Elmer Gaylord 10 min read

If you want to become a bankruptcy lawyer, you'll need to obtain a bachelor's degree and be enrolled in a law school. You'll pursue a Juris Doctor (J.D). Degree, which takes two and four years to complete.

Full Answer

How long does it take to get a bankruptcy attorney?

Like so many questions in the law, the answer is “it depends.” In a Chapter 7, filing to discharge is about four months; in Chapter 13 it’s three to five years. But, too often, the real gating issue is getting ready to file. How long will it take you to get your attorney all the needed information.

What degree do I need to become a bankruptcy lawyer?

Although going to a prestigious school can enhance employment and salary opportunities, a juris doctor (J.D.) degree from any accredited law school provides you with the foundation you need to become a bankruptcy lawyer. At Yale, the nation's No. 1 law school, the average admitted student has a grade-point average (GPA)...

How long does it take to get out of a bankruptcy?

In a Chapter 7, filing to discharge is about four months; in Chapter 13 it’s three to five years. But, too often, the real gating issue is getting ready to file.

What does a bankruptcy attorney specialize in?

Some bankruptcy attorneys specialize in business bankruptcy, while others assist clients through personal bankruptcy; personal bankruptcy takes two forms -- Chapter 7 and Chapter 13.

How long does it take to discharge a bankruptcy?

Since a chapter 12 or chapter 13 plan may provide for payments to be made over three to five years, the discharge typically occurs about four years after the date of filing.

What is an attorney called?

In the United States, the terms lawyer and attorney are often used interchangeably. For this reason, people in and out of the legal field often ask, “is an attorney and a lawyer the same thing?”. In colloquial speech, the specific requirements necessary to be considered a lawyer vs attorney aren't always considered.

What is the success rate of Chapter 7 bankruptcy?

Success Rate: Given that more than 99% of Chapter 7 cases are discharged, your Chapter 7 bankruptcy will likely be a success (so long as you follow the rules and don't commit fraud). Debt Survival: You may still have to pay certain debts, such as a mortgage lien, child support or alimony, once bankruptcy is over.

How do I prepare for Chapter 7?

The first step to prepare for bankruptcy is to gather proof of your income. Copies of your tax returns and copies of proof of income for the past six months are required when you file a Chapter 7 case. To prepare for bankruptcy under Chapter 7, you must complete the Chapter 7 Means Test.

Is law school difficult?

In summary, law school is hard. Harder than regular college or universities, in terms of stress, workload, and required commitment. But about 40,000 people graduate from law schools every year–so it is clearly attainable.

Can an introvert become a lawyer?

It is absolutely possible for an introvert to be a successful lawyer. Keep in mind that much of a lawyer's job is done in his/her office alone, or in the company of only a few other people. And introversion alone says nothing about a person's ability to be tough and aggressive when necessary.

How many times does the average millionaire file bankruptcy?

The average millionaire goes bankrupt 3.5 times. And 70% of wealthy families lose their wealth by the second generation. You may also take some inspiration in knowing that, based on current projections, 1,700 Americans become millionaires every day. If you want to join them, you know what to do.

Is it better to file a Chapter 7 or 13?

Most people prefer Chapter 7 bankruptcy because, unlike Chapter 13 bankruptcy, it doesn't require you to repay a portion of your debt to creditors. In Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you must pay all of your disposable income—the amount remaining after allowed monthly expenses—to your creditors for three to five years.

Do you get out of all debts if you declare bankruptcy?

While the goal of both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy is to put your debts behind you so that you can move on with your life, not all debts are eligible for discharge.

What is the job growth rate for bankruptcy lawyers?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) tracks data and makes employment predictions for nearly all civilian occupations. Although the BLS does not provide information on bankruptcy lawyers specifically, it estimates the job growth rate for all lawyers will be 8 percent through 2026, about average growth compared to all other occupations.

What are the requirements for law school?

Law school requirements do not specify a particular major. Some institutions have a suggested pre-law curriculum, but it's up to you to select a major. The American Bar Association (ABA) recommends a course of study that prepares you for the extensive reading, writing, analysis and critical thinking you'll be doing in law school. Popular majors for pre-law students include: 1 Economics 2 English 3 Government 4 History 5 Philosophy 6 Political science

How long does it take for a bankruptcy to be approved?

A bankruptcy judge will go over any problems brought up by creditors or your trustee. If issues can be worked out, the court can then decide to approve your repayment plan.

How long do you have to wait to file for bankruptcy?

You may have to wait for three months or more after your 341 Meeting of Creditors to hear from the bankruptcy court. The court will hopefully be sending you a written discharge of your debts. Bankruptcy filings are rarely denied at this point. Generally, only a complaint filed by a creditor can delay approval.

How long does it take to get your first promised payment after filing bankruptcy?

You won’t wait on creditor feedback, trustee input, or the court’s opinion on your payment schedule. Your first promised payment will be due within 30 days after you file for bankruptcy.

How long does it take to get a 341 meeting of creditors?

After about a month you’ll attend a creditor’s meeting, also called a 341 Meeting of Creditors, where you will answer questions under oath asked by the bankruptcy trustee. Your bankruptcy lawyer will be at your side during this hearing. Creditors usually do not bother attending.

What happens if you file bankruptcy and your creditors don't contact you?

At this time, an automatic stay goes into effect and creditors can no longer contact you about your debt.

How long does Chapter 13 bankruptcy last?

Chapter 13 is different: 13 is a payment plan stretching over 3-5 years. The discharge comes when the plan payments are complete.

How long does it take to get discharged from Chapter 7?

In a Chapter 7, filing to discharge is about four months ; in Chapter 13 it’s three to five years. But, too often, the real gating issue is getting ready to file. How long will it take you to get your attorney all the needed information. And that’s a timeline that you, the client, control.

Chapter 7 bankruptcy from start to finish

In general, a Chapter 7 bankruptcy filing takes about four to six months. Then the court will issue the order discharging your debts about three to four months after that. The process begins with gathering certain documents, such as pay stubs and tax returns, as well as a list of your assets and their value.

Chapter 13 bankruptcy

While the Chapter 7 process typically takes less than a year, Chapter 13 bankruptcy usually lasts three to five years. That is because Chapter 13 bankruptcy involves you repaying all or part of your secured debts in manageable monthly installments. However, it should not affect your day-to-day life much over that period.

What Can Slow Down My Bankruptcy Case?

Making sure you file paperwork on time and complete all the appropriate steps in your bankruptcy process in a timely man can make sure your bankruptcy stays on course. If you miss any deadlines or make mistakes on needed forms or plans, you risk extending the length of your bankruptcy.

Can a Lawyer Expedite My Bankruptcy Case?

Depending on which type of bankruptcy you file, a lawyer can take the steps to make sure your case moves along in a brisk fashion. For example, if you file for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you will be required to submit a repayment plan.

Does a Bankruptcy Lawyer Make a Difference in My Case?

When it comes to ensuring a streamlined bankruptcy, it may be in your best interests to obtain the services of an experienced bankruptcy lawyer. Israel & Gerity, PLLC has years of experience in bankruptcy cases and will do whatever it takes to optimize your bankruptcy so you can get the results you deserve.

William Joseph Kopp Jr

Timing is very important in BK. Once there is nothing holding up your case, he/she should file right away. However, if he/she waiting on certain things to fall off your timeline, go with that advice. More

Carl H Starrett II

You need to insist on a better answer from your attorney. Some of my clients take weeks or even months to get me the documents needed to file their case. Others get me what I need within hours or days. We can't tell if the delay is on your for not getting the documents to your attorney or if the attorney is really busy...

Dorothy Ann Bartholomew

You are entitled to a better answer than "not to worry." Ask your attorney what specifically is holding up your filing. More

David Earl Phillips

This would depend on the particular circumstances of your case. If you provided all of the documents needed and you are looking at a Chapter 7, usually within a couple of days the papers could be prepared. Almost all bankruptcy attorneys use computer software which helps speed up the process.