Bankruptcy Timeline

The specific timeline for bankruptcy proceedings in Raleigh, North Carolina will vary depending upon the case itself and your specific situation. Following is a basic bankruptcy timeline which should be used for general informational purposes only. We welcome you to consult a Raleigh bankruptcy attorney at our firm for more information regarding your specific situation and what you can expect as far as the process and timeline are concerned.

Bankruptcy Timeline

• Any voluntary bankruptcy proceeding begins with filing a petition with the Bankruptcy Court. At this time, a filing fee must be paid.
• Within 15 days after filing, the debtor (or the debtor’s attorney) must file a “schedule” – detailed information must be supplied to the court regarding assets, income, expenses, property and debts. For Chapter 13 bankruptcy, a payment plan must be filed at this time as well.
• Approximately 18 days after filing, the court will mail a “Notice of Commencement of Case” to the debtor and to his or her creditors.
• Within 30 days of filing under Chapter 7, the debtor must file a “Settlement of Intention” regarding property secured by debt. This statement will inform the court of whether the debtor intends to keep paying these debts or will surrender the property to the court in order for the debt to be discharged.
• Within 30 days of filing under Chapter 13, the first payment under the repayment plan will be due. The debtor must start making payments within 30 days of filing.
• Approximately 6 weeks after filing for bankruptcy, a “341 meeting” will be held. This is a meeting involving the debtor and creditors. The debtor must attend this meeting or his or her case will be dismissed. At the 341 meeting, the debtor must testify under oath regarding bankruptcy.
• More than 60 days after the 341 meeting, a “discharge” will be entered in a Chapter 7 bankruptcy case. This means that debts will be discharged and the debtor will be clear and free of them. (There are certain situations where a discharge can be set aside, however.)
• 3 to 5 years after the first payment under a Chapter 13 repayment plan, a discharge will be entered by the court. This will release the debtor from an obligation to pay any remaining eligible debt.

Consult a Raleigh Bankruptcy Lawyer

It is highly recommended that you do not go through the bankruptcy process alone. Working with a Raleigh bankruptcy lawyer is how you can be sure that your case is handled properly and that you are given the full benefit that U.S. Bankruptcy Law has to offer you.

Contact the Law Office of Michael W. Hopper today to discuss your situation with a skilled bankruptcy attorney.