Bankruptcy Law, Consumer Bankruptcy

What Documents do you need to File Bankruptcy in Florida?

At the start of a bankruptcy case, the filer is asked to fill out certain documents, including disclosures regarding the person’s financial affairs. This disclosure includes the person’s income, expenses, assets, debts, and any property transfers.

The filer will also need to provide supporting documentation, and the documents required are essentially the same for both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 cases, with slightly different variations. It is often helpful to check with the bankruptcy trustee to ensure that all required documentation is submitted. Some trustees require more proof than others, and many times, this evidence will also be determined by the facts of the individual’s case.

Bankruptcy Law, Consumer Bankruptcy

The Cost of Filing Bankruptcy in 2021

Filing for bankruptcy comes with its own set of costs. It may seem counterintuitive that a person who is having difficulty paying his or her bills can pay extra costs to receive relief from his or her financial obligations. However, just because someone is not able to pay his or her bills should not prevent them from hiring an attorney to file their bankruptcy case. While “do it yourself” projects may be a good idea around the house, there are reasons to let a professional handle your bankruptcy filing.

Bankruptcy Law

Tips to Keep in Mind Before Filing for Bankruptcy in Florida

Many people view bankruptcy as this great unknown and truly do not understand the process before filing. However, it helps to understand what is involved when filing for bankruptcy and what to expect during the process.

What Is Bankruptcy?

Bankruptcy is a legal proceeding that basically provides the filer a fresh financial start. While it does involve putting the filer’s financial situation in the hands of the bankruptcy court and bankruptcy trustee, it can give the person a chance to breathe and get back on his or her feet. Bankruptcy will put all collection proceedings and foreclosure cases at a stop through the automatic stay and will also stop creditors from continuing to contact the consumer.

Bankruptcy Law

Important Factors to Keep in Mind When Filing for Bankruptcy

When filing for bankruptcy, certain factors should be kept in mind, including the type of bankruptcy being filed, property exemptions available to the filer, and the various laws and legal regulations that accompany filing for bankruptcy.

The type of bankruptcy being filed.

The most common types of consumer bankruptcy are Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcies. A Chapter 7 bankruptcy allows filers to receive a total discharge of their qualifying debts and is an option used mostly by filers whose debts are particularly high compared to their level of income. To file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, filers must qualify under the bankruptcy means test. Chapter 13 bankruptcy allows the consumer to enter a repayment plan to pay all or part of his or her debts over the course of three to five years.