Filing Chapter 7 Bankruptcy, How Long to Discharge?
Our Plano TX Bankruptcy Law Offices Can Help You Expedite Your Chapter 7 Filing.
The Law Offices of John F. Williams, Jr. file many Chapter 7 bankruptcies every year. One of the first questions we hear regards the duration of the process. The quick answer is 4-6 months. In reality Chapter 7 bankruptcy cases are usually completed in just over 6 months. The reason is simple. More and more people are filing for bankruptcy here in the Dallas area than in the past. The economy, jobs, debt load and inflation contribute to the increase.
The Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Filing Process
Even though it may seem like this process is tedious and complex, my extensive experience can ensure the bankruptcy process will transition smoothly from start to finish. After our initial meeting, if we’ve both determined that you need to file chapter 7, then you will start the process by gathering information from a bankruptcy checklist.
After you’ve provided me with all the necessary information to prepare the petition, along with the credit counseling briefing certificate, I will file these documents with the court.
Your creditors will be notified, a trustee will be assigned to oversee your case, and during the 60 days following the filing of the petition we meet with your creditors. Your creditors can, at that time, object to specific debts for statutory reasons. During this time, the trustee can request a dismissal of your case if there are any findings that your filing abused the rules set forth in bankruptcy law. These disputes shouldn’t happen if you have an experienced bankruptcy lawyer working on your behalf.
Once the 60 days have expired, assuming no creditors have come forward to dispute any debts and the trustee hasn’t dismissed your case, you will likely receive your Chapter 7 bankruptcy discharge. This entire process from the initial meeting at my office to receiving the final discharge could take as little as 4 months. If there are any delays, addendums to the original petition, or issues with creditors, the process can run as long as 6 months or more.
For any reason, should we not be able to file for Chapter 7, the alternative is Chapter 13 Bankruptcy which takes longer but still helps you stop creditor harrassment and calls.
Contact Us today for Your FREE CONSULTATION. The Law Offices of John F. Williams, Jr. are your legal advocates throughout the entire bankruptcy process. From the initial filing of your bankruptcy petition to the 341 creditor meeting and discharge, we represent you and protect your interests.
