Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Timeline

If you are seeking debt relief, filing a Chapter 7 bankruptcy is a relatively short process. In fact, the entire case from beginning to end can usually be complete in a matter of six months or less. Timing however is critical, and it is important that certain actions are taken at the correct time throughout the process to ensure the bankruptcy is complete on time. SunCoast Law are skilled at initiating and following the procedures required though each stage of the bankruptcy proceeding.

We’ve been helping clients get relief from debt since 1999 and know the steps to be taken to ensure a successful bankruptcy petition is filed. We have helped thousands of people get the help they need quickly and efficiently, and know what to expect every step of the way. Our attorneys will make sure that you’re informed throughout every part of the process and get the information you need to respond to requests for information documentation accordingly.

We’d like to discuss debt relief options through Chapter 7 bankruptcy with you. Please contact us at (844) 330-2727 for a free consultation today.

What to expect

Although public records are checked to ensure clients have not filed Chapter 7 bankruptcy in the previous eight years, the timeline for those who have no prior history usually begins about six months before the actual bankruptcy filing.

Initial Consultation - The First Step

Before you can file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you must meet with an experienced bankruptcy attorney. They will determine if you are eligible for a Chapter 7 bankruptcy, as well as carefully examine your financial situation as a whole.

Chapter 7 Timeline

Notice of Representation: SunCoast Law will send out notice to all your creditors informing them you are now represented by an attorney. The law requires the creditor immediately cease contact with you and make contact with SunCoast Law moving forward. This should stop all the collection calls. If a creditor makes contact after a notice has been sent, SunCoast Law will file a debt harassment claim and you would be entitled to up to $1,000 in damages.

180 days prior to filing bankruptcy: You are required to get credit counseling from an agency approved by the court.

90 days prior to filing bankruptcy: You will need to have established Florida state residency for at least 90 days before filing, (if filing in Florida). You should also not make charges to your credit card accounts within a period of 90 days prior to filing bankruptcy. Some courts may not discharge these recent charges if you do.

Filing your petition for Chapter 7 bankruptcy: At this point your attorney will formally file your case, which sets the bankruptcy process in motion. A court will enter an automatic stay on your behalfthat stops any and all:

Further, the bankruptcy court will notify each of your creditors that you have filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy.

Approximately 30 days after filing a Chapter 7 bankruptcy: If you chose to retain certain assets you must either agree to reaffirm the debt and make payments on it, or surrender the items. In some instances the creditor will not require reaffirmation and you can keep the item(s) and continue making payments without signing the agreement. Certain creditors can require reaffirmation and the bankruptcy court must approve this agreement.

Approximately six weeks after filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy: At this point in the bankruptcy process, you will need to attend a short, “Meeting of Creditors”. Your bankruptcy trustee will go over your finances and ensure your paperwork has been filed correctly. Your creditors will also each have the opportunity to ask you questions, though most will not even show up. Within 30 days of the meeting, creditors may raise objections to the discharge of any debt you owe. This usually does not happen.

Within five or six months of filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy: Your attorney will handle most of the legal proceedings associated with filing Chapter 7 bankruptcy, while you await a final discharge from the courts. Once your debts have been discharged, you no longer have to pay back creditors named in the bankruptcy filing that were discharged. You can now begin the process of effectively managing your finances once again and rebuilding new positive creditor relationships.

Contact one of our Debt Relief Attorneys for a Free Consultation

To find out whether you qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy and more about the means test required, contact SunCoast Law at (844) 330-2727.

We offer debt relief solutions in compliance with U.S Bankruptcy Code.