what information should i take to bankruptcy lawyer

Listed below is a more expansive list of documents that you should bring during the first meetings with a bankruptcy lawyer:

• All financial documents, including bank account statements, receipts for major purchases, wage statements, and tax...
• A list of your creditors that you owe money, and their contact information, account numbers, and how much money you owe...

Full Answer

What do I need to know before hiring a bankruptcy attorney?

You'll need to provide detailed financial information before the bankruptcy lawyer can prepare your paperwork and you'll need to review and sign the completed bankruptcy forms, so your availability and cooperation will also be a factor. The attorney will describe the basic steps and how long the process will take.

What information do I need to fill out bankruptcy papers?

Most of the information you'll need to fill out your bankruptcy paperwork will be in those documents, including asset value and income information. For example, you'll use the income documentation to calculate your average monthly income.

What should I bring to my first meeting with a bankruptcy lawyer?

Here’s a basic checklist of documents that you should bring during the first meetings with a bankruptcy lawyer: For business bankruptcy, you may need to bring additional documentation, including company balance sheets, budget reports, financial statements, and a list of company property.

How do bankruptcy attorneys file bankruptcies?

Almost all bankruptcy attorneys have specialized software that prepares and files your required bankruptcy paperwork with the court. You'll provide your attorney with all of your financial information, such as income, expense, asset, and debt information.

How do I prepare myself for bankruptcy?

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.

What should you not do before filing bankruptcy?

Here are common mistakes you should avoid before filing for bankruptcy.Lying about Your Assets. ... Not Consulting an Attorney. ... Giving Assets (Or Payments) To Family Members. ... Running Up Credit Card Debt. ... Taking on New Debt. ... Raiding The 401(k) ... Transferring Property to Family or Friends. ... Not Doing Your Research.

Do you have to list everything in a bankruptcy?

You must list all of your debts in your bankruptcy petition without exception. Most people have at least one debt they don't want to erase (discharge) in bankruptcy, and many think they can pick and choose the debts included in the case.

What do they look at for bankruptcy?

Hidden Assets debts or expenses for assets not listed in the schedules. a claim of a property loss from theft with no police report, or a casualty loss with no insurance claim. missing financial records. closed financial accounts (how much was in the account and where did the money go)

Should I close my bank account before filing bankruptcy?

You'll want to open checking and savings accounts at a bank that doesn't service any of your debt and use the new account for banking purposes before filing bankruptcy. Again, you don't need to close other accounts—leave them open and report all accounts when filling out your bankruptcy paperwork.

How do you hide money in a bankruptcy?

The following are several ways people attempt to hide assets in bankruptcy proceedings:Lying about owning assets.Transferring assets into another person's name or giving them to someone else to hold.Creating fake liens or mortgages to make the assets appear like they have no value.

Can you hide a bank account in bankruptcy?

Do not try to hide bank accounts from the trustee because you're afraid of what they'll do with the information. This is a good way to get charged with bankruptcy fraud, a criminal charge which can lead to serious jail time, as well as steep fines. The type of bankruptcy you're filing determines what may happen next.

How far back does bankruptcy look for assets?

Up to 10 Years Before You File Bankruptcy They look back into your past financial situation to make sure there were no issues with asset transfers. Most go back about two to three years, but depending on your financial circumstances it might be more.

Can bankruptcy take my TV?

The trustee decides, based on your bankruptcy schedules, whether you have unprotected assets. It's fair to say that the trustee in the vast majority of cases and in the majority of states is not looking to sell your couch or your TV.

Does bankruptcy court look at bank statements?

Your bankruptcy trustee can ask for up to two years of bank statements. The trustee will look at your statements to verify your monthly payments to make sure they match the expenses you put on your bankruptcy forms.

What Cannot be taken bankruptcy?

Some of the most common debts that you cannot get rid of in bankruptcy are debts from child or spousal support, most student loans, most tax debts, wages you owe people who worked for you, damages for personal injury you caused when driving while intoxicated, debts to government agencies for fines or penalties, and ...

What assets can be taken in bankruptcy?

There are three types of assets in bankruptcy:Personal property. This is what's considered material goods; examples include clothing, furniture, artwork and vehicles.Real property. Real property includes land and improvements or buildings tied to land, such as a house or barn.Intangible property.

What Documents Do You Need to File For Bankruptcy?

The documents you’ll need are the same whether you are filing a Chapter 7 bankruptcy or Chapter 13 matter, with slight variations. However, for exa...

Retirement and Bank Accounts

Recent bank and retirement account statements must be provided to the bankruptcy trustee for all accounts.IdentificationWhen you go to your hearing...

What Information Do You Need to Complete The Bankruptcy Forms?

Most of the information you’ll need to fill out your bankruptcy paperwork will be in those documents, including asset value and income information....

Credit Counseling Requirement

In addition to the documents above, the law requires that you complete a credit counseling class and obtain a certificate before you can file for b...

What is the most important thing to do when filing for bankruptcy?

The last point is especially important. For the most effective bankruptcy filing, it is crucial that you are completely transparent with your attorney. Make sure you take note of any questions, legal inquiries, or laws that you may wish to address with your attorney.

What to do if you can't find a bankruptcy document?

If you can’t find a document that you think you need for your bankruptcy or if you forgot to bring a document to a meeting with your lawyer, you should tell your attorney as soon as possible, so that they can take note and take the appropriate action to help you.

Why is bankruptcy considered the most document intensive?

This is because whether a bankruptcy is recognized by the courts is based on the value of the debtors assets compared to the amount of debt owed to other creditors.

Why is it important to have a bankruptcy attorney?

Because filing for bankruptcy is a complex legal claim, finding the right bank ruptcy attorney is important. A bankruptcy attorney will help you decide whether or not to file for bankruptcy, and what type of bankruptcy you should file. Additionally, if you decide to file, an attorney can help ensure that your property is protected, ...

How long does it take to file for bankruptcy?

In total, most bankruptcies take around 4 to 6 months.

Why do people declare bankruptcy?

Declaring bankruptcy gives individuals or businesses that are unable to pay their debts a better way to solve their financial problems. It can also help them start rebuilding their credit and lives in a more positive and financially stable way.

What happens when you file for bankruptcy?

That way, when you complete your bankruptcy, you will be on the right path to financial recovery.

What number do you file a debtor form with?

Individual debtors will file forms that begin with the number 100, while non-individuals will file forms beginning with the number 200. Thankfully, though, most of these documents can wait to be produced during the retainer and filing process, and need not be brought to the initial consultation. While debtors certainly are able to file ...

What was the burden of bankruptcy in 2005?

One of the biggest burdens under the “new” bankruptcy law that was forced upon debtors and their attorneys in 2005 was the requirement to produce volumes and volumes of documents. In addition to the formal schedules and statement of affairs, you’ll need to get together a lot of paperwork to file bankruptcy. One nationally known attorney ...

What does a bankruptcy attorney ask you?

A bankruptcy attorney will ask you why you're considering filing for bankruptcy and determine whether filing for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy will help you solve your financial problem.

Why do people show up in bankruptcy lawyers?

Most people show up in an attorney’s office because they need help with one of a small number of problems— and the attorney will be aware of this pattern. For instance, when a bankruptcy attorney asks you what prompted you to call, it’s likely that you’ll say that your debts are piling up and that the stress is becoming unbearable. But you could be facing one of the following situations, too, and if you are, the lawyer will want to know about it because it will require quick attention:

Why do people show up in an attorney's office?

Preparing for the Attorney’s Questions. Most people show up in an attorney’s office because they need help with one of a small number of problems— and the attorney will be aware of this pattern. For instance, when a bankruptcy attorney asks you what prompted you to call, it’s likely that you’ll say that your debts are piling up and ...

Can an attorney text you?

Attorneys have the option, but are not required, to send text messages to you. You will receive up to 2 messages per week from Martindale-Nolo. Frequency from attorney may vary. Message and data rates may apply. Your number will be held in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

Do I need a copy of my Social Security card to file bankruptcy?

a copy of your social security card. Most lawyers will ask you to complete a lengthy bankruptcy questionnaire, as well. If you can, get it before your meeting and bring a completed copy with you.

What information do you need to file for bankruptcy?

What Information Do You Need to Complete the Bankruptcy Forms? Most of the information you'll need to fill out your bankruptcy paperwork will be in those documents, including asset value and income information. For example, you'll use the income documentation to calculate your average monthly income.

How to get a credit report for bankruptcy?

Start by finding loan statements or bills so that you can list each of your creditors in the bankruptcy. Alternatively, you can obtain a credit report that shows all your debts; however, be aware that you're required to list the creditor's billing address, and that address rarely shows up on your credit report.

What does a bankruptcy trustee do when a debtor loses financial paperwork?

When a bankruptcy debtor (filer) loses financial paperwork in a natural disaster, the bankruptcy trustee must: avoid taking action against a debtor who can't produce documents. grant reasonable requests to ease filing requirements, and. take into account a decrease in income or increase in expenses.

How long do you have to file a chapter 7 tax return?

You'll usually need to provide copies of your tax returns or tax transcripts for the last two years in a Chapter 7 case, and four years in a Chapter 13 matter. If you have unfiled returns because you weren't required to file—for instance, your only income source was nontaxable disability benefits —you'll need to explain why.

Do you have to give consent to a lawyer to text you?

You are not required to provide consent as a condition of service. Attorneys have the option, but are not required, to send text messages to you. You will receive up to 2 messages per week from Martindale-Nolo. Frequency from attorney may vary.

Do trustees require proof of bankruptcy?

Not only do some trustees require more proof than others, but the particular evidence you'll have to produce will also be determined by the facts of your case. Below are the most commonly required documents in bankruptcy.

Can you file for bankruptcy after a natural disaster?

But not only are jobs and property lost, but the paperwork required to file for bankruptcy can end up missing, too. Fortunately, provisions are made for such emergencies. When a bankruptcy debtor (filer) loses financial paperwork in a natural disaster, the bankruptcy trustee must:

How to file for bankruptcy?

First, you can expect your attorney to tell you whether filing for bankruptcy would be in your best interest. If it is, you should also learn: 1 whether Chapter 7, Chapter 13, or another type will help you achieve your financial goals 2 what you can expect during the bankruptcy process, and 3 whether your case involves any particular difficulties or risks.

What to expect during bankruptcy?

Most importantly, if you have any questions, you can expect your attorney to respond to your calls or emails promptly.

What do bankruptcy attorneys do?

Almost all bankruptcy attorneys have specialized software that prepares and files your required bankruptcy paperwork with the court. You'll provide your attorney with all of your financial information, such as income, expense, asset, and debt information.

What type of hearings can an attorney represent you at?

Some common types of hearings you can expect your attorney to represent you at: Chapter 13 confirmation hearings. Chapter 7 reaffirmation hearings, and. any other motion or objection hearings filed by you, your creditors, or the trustee.

What is the mandatory hearing for bankruptcy?

After filing for bankruptcy, all debtors must attend a mandatory hearing called the 341 meeting of creditors. But, depending on your case, you (or your attorney) might need to go to additional hearings. Some common types of hearings you can expect your attorney to represent you at: Chapter 13 confirmation hearings.

Is bankruptcy easy to handle?

Expect Competence From Your Bankruptcy Lawyer. Not all bankruptcy cases are complicated, but they aren't all easy, either. Either way, your bankruptcy lawyer should have the skill level necessary to handle your case. In general, the difficulty of your bankruptcy will depend on: the involvement of bankruptcy litigation.

Can an attorney text you?

Attorneys have the option, but are not required, to send text messages to you. You will receive up to 2 messages per week from Martindale-Nolo. Frequency from attorney may vary. Message and data rates may apply. Your number will be held in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

How do bankruptcy lawyers work?

Out of the court room, they advise their clients in the complexities of bankruptcy laws and counsel them in reducing their debt load by liquidating assets and paying creditors. Or, they may work on the side of creditors, attempting to extract as much money owed as possible from their debtors.

How many pages are there in the bankruptcy code?

It’s not an easy task, and a strong familiarity with the nearly 500 pages of the Bankruptcy Code is essential.

How much does it cost to file for bankruptcy?

Ask the attorney how much you will have to pay, in total. The court charges filing fees (currently $338 to file a Chapter 7 case and $313 to file for Chapter 13 bankruptcy; $335 and $310 respectively until December 1, 2020). You'll pay additional costs, such as administrative fees to the trustee in your Chapter 13 plan.

How long do you have to pay back Chapter 7?

However, you must enter into a three- to five-year repayment plan to pay back some or all of your debts. Filers whose income exceeds the median income in their state and who have at least a minimum amount of disposable income each month after paying their reasonable expenses might not be allowed to use Chapter 7.

Why do you have to pay Chapter 7?

Chapter 7 lawyers require full payment to avoid having the balance owed discharged, making it uncollectable. By contrast, most filers pay less than the agreed amount to start a Chapter 13 case and pay the remainder through the repayment plan.

Do you pay fees for Chapter 13?

You'll pay additional costs, such as administrative fees to the trustee in your Chapter 13 plan. And of course, the attorney will charge you a fee to handle the case. The attorney will tell you what your fees will cover and how future services will be paid going forward.

Can you use Chapter 7 or Chapter 13?

This requirement -- called the means test -- is intended to force filers who can afford Chapter 13 to use it. When you talk to a bankruptcy attorney, the attorney should be able to tell you whether you can use Chapter 7. If you can choose between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13, the lawyer should explain the pros and cons of filing each chapter.

What to do if you aren't sure about something?

If you aren't sure about something, contact your attorney for guidance. There are also some things you should avoid doing. If you find you've already done some of the things to avoid, let your attorney know right away. If you try to undo your actions, you could actually make the situation worse.

Can I open a new bank account if I owe money?

Your attorney may also ask for copies of bills and collection letters, as well. DO consider opening a new bank account, especially if you do your banking somewhere that you owe money. The bank may close your account when you file bankruptcy, so it's a good idea to already have a new bank account set up when you file.

Can I finance a car before filing a case?

DO NOT finance a new vehicle just before filing your case. If you do finance a car, it can mean a delay in filing your case. Speak with your attorney prior to doing this. DO NOT use your credit cards or acquire new debt. Unplanned medical debt may be an exception, as you may not have a choice about incurring the debt.

Preparing For The Attorney’s Questions

• Your financial records are some of the first documents you should collect. These records will help determine which type of bankruptcy is best suited for you. For example, if your financial documents show you have a regular income, your best fit may be Chapter 13 bankruptcy. This m…

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Gathering Your Documents

Preparing Your Questions

Questions For Your Attorney