Chapter 7 bankruptcy can give you the fresh start that you need.

Chapter 7 is the most common type of personal bankruptcy. People file Chapter 7 to get a fresh financial start. It provides effective relief from credit card debt, medical bills, ordinary civil judgments, personal loans, and other unsecured debts.

“Hedtke Law Group“ will help ensure that key assets, such as your home or your retirement savings, are exempt from sale by unsecured creditors,, allowing you to preserve a future, even as you develop a fresh start, financially.

Our attorneys work closely with you to evaluate your situation, your assets, and your goals, and then find the bankruptcy protection options that will meet your specific needs. For many clients, Chapter 7 bankruptcy is a natural fit, eliminating or reducing debt, collections and lawsuits, while giving you the ability to protect your home, future and family. schedule an appointment with our experienced team of attorneys by calling us today at (626) 593-1556.

WHO ARE THE CHAPTER 7 PLAYERS AND WHAT DO THEY DO?

Chapter 7 Trustee — Section 321-331; of the Bankruptcy Code govern the selection and appointment of Chapter 7 trustees. Trustees are typically lawyers appointed by the US Trustee’s Office. Their duties are outlined in Section 704 of the Bankruptcy Code. Their primary function is to reduce to money assets of the bankruptcy estate and disburse those funds expeditiously as possible.

Debtor(s) — Debtors can be individuals, married couples, or corporations. Only married couples can file joint Chapter 7 cases. Debtor’s duties are outlined in Section 521 of the Bankruptcy Code.

Debtor’s Attorney — Only an attorney can give you legal advice and retain you as a client. Never meet with a paralegal or non-lawyer. They simply cannot give you legal advice or retain you as a client.

Creditor(s)v– Any entity that purports to have a claim against you for liability on a debt.

Creditor’s Attorney — Only an attorney can give legal advice. Never meet with a paralegal or non-lawyer. Neither a paralegal nor non-lawyer can give you legal advice or retain you as a client.

Bankruptcy Judge — A lawyer who has been appointed to the bankruptcy bench. They serve 14 year terms. The number of bankruptcy judges is determined by Congress.

Just like there are actions you should not take before filing Chapter 7 Bankruptcy, there are actions you should not take after filing bankruptcy. Unless approved by competent bankruptcy counsel within your state, never transfer any assets after filing bankruptcy. Similarly, never pay creditors unless instructed to do so by counsel. Also, never fail to cooperate with trustee. Never fail to disclose all assets and debts with the court or be completely candid with your bankruptcy counsel.

WHAT IS THE 341 MEETING OF CREDITORS?

A meeting of creditors must be convened by the US Trustee’s Office within a reasonable time from filing the Chapter 7 Bankruptcy. In the vast majority of cases, creditors do not appear. Instead, the Chapter 7 trustee asks debtor to verify that the information on the schedules is true, correct, and complete. Section 343 of the Bankruptcy Code requires debtor to submit to this examination under oath.

WHO NORMALLY ATTENDS THE MEETING OF CREDITORS?

Chapter 7 trustee, debtor, debtor’s counsel.

WHAT HAPPENS AT THE MEETING OF CREDITORS AND HOW LONG DOES IT LAST?

Typically, the Chapter 7 trustee asks you to verify that the information on the schedules is true, correct, and complete. The vast majority of hearings are held with the Chapter 7 trustee, debtor, and debtor’s counsel and no one else present. The meeting typically lasts anywhere from 5-10 minutes.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER THE MEETING OF CREDITORS?

Reaffirmation agreements- creditor and debtor may negotiate a reaffirmation agreement and file it with the court.

Redemption agreements- creditor and debtor may negotiate redemption agreements and file it with the court.

We provide experienced and personalized legal support. Our bankruptcy lawyers Ontario take a hands-on approach to client service. From your free initial consultation, through filing Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you’ll work closely with our office and attorneys.

We will also help you work to protect your:

• Home and Investment Properties
• Car
• Retirement — 401k, IRAs, Pensions
• Social Security
• Workers’ Compensation Benefits
• Wages
• Personally-registered businesses

To find out whether bankruptcy is right for you, schedule an appointment with our experienced team of attorneys by calling us today at (626) 593-1556.