The third step in becoming debt free is to file for bankruptcy. The fact that they call it “filing” takes away from the excitement of the idea, but it’s a big day for you! Your bankruptcy attorney will file your bankruptcy electronically so it can be submitted anytime 24/7. The electronic process also means that you, the filer, are not required to be present at the time of filing.
What’s the most exciting thing that you have to look forward to on the day your California bankruptcy attorney files your bankruptcy? A drastic decrease in the amount of collection phone calls you’ll have to ignore each day. When you file, the bankruptcy court will issue an order to stop all collection efforts against you in an effort to collect on any debts listed in your bankruptcy. From this point forward, creditors are barred from contacting you. Therefore you can look forward to no more phone calls, no fear of lawsuits, and no garnishments.
Filing your bankruptcy through an experienced California bankruptcy attorney means that your bankruptcy process will move along smoothly. Experienced bankruptcy attorneys gather as much information as possible before they file for your case in order to create “air-tight” documents that will smooth the way for your case through the bankruptcy courts.
Being completely honest with your California bankruptcy attorney means you will have no surprises in the midst of your bankruptcy process. You don’t want any surprises related to your bankruptcy, so answer all your bankruptcy attorney’s questions honestly and thoroughly. And be up front with any information you think may be related to your case. If you’re craving a surprise…request your best friend throw you a surprise party. Don’t look for it through your bankruptcy case. It’s too important to your future.
Now that your case is filed with the bankruptcy court, there will be two more people involved in your case: the bankruptcy judge and your bankruptcy trustee. The bankruptcy judge upholds federal bankruptcy law. Most who file for bankruptcy never see their bankruptcy judge unless something happens outside the norm other than the moment when they sign your Discharge Order.
Your interactions with your bankruptcy trustee will be more frequent. You may receive a letter from the bankruptcy trustee requesting documents. You should comply in a timely manner. You will also see the bankruptcy trustee at the Meeting of the Creditors where they will ask you a series of simple questions. Unless there’s a problem – this will be your complete relationship with the bankruptcy trustee.
Look for more information on becoming debt free through filing for bankruptcy in upcoming posts. To discuss your personal financial situation and becoming debt free with an expert in California bankruptcy law, contact Westgate Law.