Filing for bankruptcy is not something you can do without proper planning and preparations, no matter which branch you want to use. Instead, it will take time preparing for this event. Here are some of the ways you will need to prepare and plan if you want to file Chapter 7 bankruptcy.
Search for the documents needed
Preparing for any type of bankruptcy case will often involve a lot of digging around your house. Now, this does not really mean using a shovel to dig holes. Instead, it means looking through your desk, your cabinets, your filing system, or whatever else you use to store your financial documents. You will need a lot of different documents in order to file for bankruptcy, and it will be very important to attend your first meeting prepared with documents in hand. When you schedule your appointment with a bankruptcy attorney, ask for a list of documents to bring, so you can make sure you have everything you need.
Meet with an attorney
Secondly, you will need to meet with an attorney to go through your personal situation and financial state, and having all the correct documents with you can help this make this visit more effective and productive.
Determine if this is the right solution
The meeting you attend has two key purposes. The first is to help you know which branch of bankruptcy you would be better off using. The second is to help you determine the pros and cons in this decision. After getting information from a lawyer, you do not have to go through with the bankruptcy if it does not appear to be the best solution for you.
File the documents
If you decide that you want to use bankruptcy, your next step will be to meet again with the lawyer to file the documents. This appointment may take an hour or even longer, and it will involve the lawyer asking you a lot of questions and filling out the necessary forms for your bankruptcy case. Once complete, he or she will file the forms with the bankruptcy court. From this point, you will be on your way to financial freedom, and you must make sure you follow the instructions your lawyer gives you during your case.
After completing these steps, your case will officially begin and will require attending a hearing at your local bankruptcy court. To begin this process or find answers to the questions you have, talk to a bankruptcy attorney today.