Steps For Filing Bankruptcy

Jean Roche, P.C., helps clients file bankruptcy in Dallas, Plano and nearby cities. Ms. Roche has been handling debt problems for individuals for over 28 years.

The process of filing bankruptcy can be quite confusing. Federal laws may say one thing, and Texas laws may say another. People who face constant harassment from creditors and collection agencies should not need to feel burdened by understanding bankruptcy laws. Dallas bankruptcy attorney Jean Roche handles the administrative side of bankruptcy so that you can begin focusing on your financial future, rather than your past mistakes and misfortune.

Addressing Your Financial Situation

One of the first steps for filing bankruptcy involves honestly assessing your financial situation. Ms Roche will work with you to determine the severity of your financial problems and whether it is likely and probably that you can pay back some or all of your debt under a repayment plan. As an individual filing personal bankruptcy, you will have two choices:

  • Chapter 7 bankruptcy: if you are in deep debt and need to discharge debts in exchange for liquidating all nonexempt assets
  • Chapter 13 bankruptcy: if you have a stable income and could potentially repay some or all of your creditors' claims under a three- to five-year repayment plan.

If you need help deciding between Chapter 7 and 13, contact Ms. Roche for help.

How To Initiate A Bankruptcy

A bankruptcy case formally begins when the debtor, with the help of an attorney, submits his or her voluntary bankruptcy petition to the local bankruptcy court. In most cases, filing the petition and paying the filing fee results in automatic bankruptcy relief. The case is initiated—subject to your compliance with all of the bankruptcy requirements and procedures. In other words, in most cases, the automatic relief can be taken away for failure to follow the letter and spirit of the bankruptcy process.

The bankruptcy petition requires specific information about your personal finances and must be filled out accurately. The following are some examples of what will be required:

  • A list of your properties
  • A list of assets that you are claiming as exempt and their values
  • Contact information of your creditors
  • Details about claims against you, including amounts
  • Your income and expenditures

In addition, the petition is where you indicate which type of bankruptcy that you plan to file. People filing for bankruptcy are expected to pay filing fees, which are set by the federal Bankruptcy Code.

Call 708-427-4882 for help filing bankruptcy in Dallas.

We are a debt relief agency. We help people file for bankruptcy relief under the Bankruptcy Code.