What is chapter 7 bankruptcy?

Chapter 7 is one type of bankruptcy procedure designed to eliminate most debts. These procedures are called "chapter 7 bankruptcies" because they are outlined in chapter 7 of the Bankruptcy Code. Chapter 7 bankruptcies are also called "fresh start" or "liquidation" bankruptcies.

What happens to my assets during a bankruptcy?

It depends on which kind of bankruptcy you file. In a chapter 7 bankruptcy, a person must list all of his or her property and debts. There are limits on the amount of property one can keep while still eliminating debt, although there are exemptions for certain types of assets(for example, your house or car). Under chapter 13, you may be able to keep most of your property.

How can filing for bankruptcy help with creditors?

After you have prepared and filed your bankruptcy paperwork, the court clerk will notify all of your creditors of your bankruptcy filing and inform them that they may no longer contact you. The clerk's notice will also include information about your meeting of creditors. If your creditors continue to pursue you after receiving notice of your bankruptcy, they are subject to sanctions by the bankruptcy court.