{"id":61,"date":"2013-08-26T09:26:01","date_gmt":"2013-08-26T16:26:01","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/rrlgwpadmin.wpengine.com\/?page_id=61"},"modified":"2023-11-03T18:41:31","modified_gmt":"2023-11-03T18:41:31","slug":"chapter-7-bankruptcy-faqs","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/robert-russell.com\/lawyer-practice-areas\/bankruptcy-attorney-vancouver-wa\/chapter-7-bankruptcy-faqs\/","title":{"rendered":"Chapter 7 Bankruptcy FAQs"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><div class=\"fusion-fullwidth fullwidth-box fusion-builder-row-1 fusion-flex-container nonhundred-percent-fullwidth non-hundred-percent-height-scrolling\" style=\"--awb-border-radius-top-left:0px;--awb-border-radius-top-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-left:0px;--awb-flex-wrap:wrap;\" ><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start fusion-flex-content-wrap\" style=\"max-width:calc( 1200px + 0px );margin-left: calc(-0px \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-0px \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-0 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\" style=\"--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-width-large:100%;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:0px;--awb-margin-bottom-large:0px;--awb-spacing-left-large:0px;--awb-width-medium:100%;--awb-spacing-right-medium:0px;--awb-spacing-left-medium:0px;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-spacing-right-small:0px;--awb-spacing-left-small:0px;\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\"><div class=\"fusion-title title fusion-title-1 fusion-sep-none fusion-title-text fusion-title-size-one\"><h1 class=\"fusion-title-heading title-heading-left fusion-responsive-typography-calculated\" style=\"margin:0;--fontSize:42;line-height:1.40;\">Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Attorney<\/h1><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-1\"><p>These are some of the frequently asked questions regarding Chapter 7 Bankruptcy. Just click on the question for the answer. If you cannot find the answer you need below, or have a new question you think might be helpful to others, please\u00a0<a title=\"Contact\" href=\"https:\/\/robert-russell.com\/contact-vancouverbankruptcyattorney\/\">contact us<\/a>\u00a0for additional help.\u00a0<em>&#8211; Robert C. Russell<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div><div style=\"text-align:center;\"><a class=\"fusion-button button-flat button-xlarge button-custom fusion-button-default button-1 fusion-button-default-span fusion-button-default-type\" style=\"--button_accent_color:#023047;--button_accent_hover_color:#ffb703;--button_border_hover_color:#ffffff;--button_border_width-top:0px;--button_border_width-right:0px;--button_border_width-bottom:0px;--button_border_width-left:0px;--button-border-radius-top-left:0;--button-border-radius-top-right:0;--button-border-radius-bottom-right:0;--button-border-radius-bottom-left:0;--button_gradient_top_color:#ffb703;--button_gradient_bottom_color:#ffb703;--button_gradient_top_color_hover:#023047;--button_gradient_bottom_color_hover:#023047;\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/robert-russell.com\/lawyer-practice-areas\/bankruptcy-attorney-vancouver-wa\/get-started-now\/\"><span class=\"fusion-button-text\">GET STARTED WITH MY BANKRUPTCY CASE TODAY!<\/span><\/a><\/div><div class=\"fusion-separator fusion-has-icon fusion-full-width-sep\" style=\"align-self: center;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;margin-top:20px;margin-bottom:20px;width:100%;\"><div class=\"fusion-separator-border sep-single sep-solid\" style=\"--awb-height:20px;--awb-amount:20px;border-color:#eae8e8;border-top-width:2px;\"><\/div><span class=\"icon-wrapper\" style=\"border-color:#eae8e8;background-color:rgba(255,255,255,0);font-size:15px;width: 1.75em; height: 1.75em;border-width:2px;padding:2px;margin-top:-1px\"><i class=\"fa-info-circle fas\" style=\"font-size: inherit;color:#0b3d4f;\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/span><div class=\"fusion-separator-border sep-single sep-solid\" style=\"--awb-height:20px;--awb-amount:20px;border-color:#eae8e8;border-top-width:2px;\"><\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">#accordian-1 .fusion-panel:hover,#accordian-1 .fusion-panel.hover{ background-color: var(--awb-color2) } #accordian-1 .fusion-panel { border-color:var(--awb-color3); border-width:1px; background-color:var(--awb-color1); }.fusion-accordian #accordian-1 .panel-title a .fa-fusion-box:before{ font-size: 16px;width: 16px;}.fusion-accordian #accordian-1 .panel-title a .fa-fusion-box{ color: var(--awb-color1);}.fusion-accordian  #accordian-1 .panel-title a{text-transform:uppercase;font-family:\"Raleway\";font-style:normal;font-weight:400;}.fusion-accordian  #accordian-1 .panel-title a:not(:hover){}.fusion-accordian  #accordian-1 .toggle-content{font-family:\"Open Sans\";font-style:normal;font-weight:regular;}.fusion-accordian #accordian-1 .fa-fusion-box { background-color: var(--awb-color7) !important;border-color: var(--awb-color7) !important;}.fusion-accordian #accordian-1 .panel-title a:hover,.fusion-accordian #accordian-1 .panel-title a.hover { color: var(--awb-color4);}.fusion-faq-shortcode .fusion-accordian #accordian-1 .fusion-toggle-boxed-mode:hover .panel-title a { color: var(--awb-color4);}.fusion-accordian #accordian-1 .panel-title .active .fa-fusion-box,.fusion-accordian #accordian-1 .panel-title a:hover .fa-fusion-box,.fusion-accordian #accordian-1 .panel-title a.hover .fa-fusion-box { background-color: var(--awb-color4)!important;border-color: var(--awb-color4)!important;}<\/style><div class=\"fusion-faq-shortcode\" style=\"\"><div class=\"fusion-faqs-wrapper\"><div class=\"accordian fusion-accordian\"><div class=\"panel-group \" id=\"accordian-1\"><div class=\"fusion-panel fusion-toggle-no-divider fusion-toggle-boxed-mode panel-default fusion-faq-post fusion-faq-post-10004 chapter-13 chapter-7 \"><span class=\"entry-title rich-snippet-hidden\">WHEN AM I PROTECTED FROM MY CREDITORS?<\/span><span class=\"vcard rich-snippet-hidden\"><span class=\"fn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/robert-russell.com\/author\/ddswayne\/\" title=\"Posts by Rob Russell\" rel=\"author\">Rob Russell<\/a><\/span><\/span><span class=\"updated rich-snippet-hidden\">2021-03-12T19:30:08+00:00<\/span><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h4 id=\"faq_1-10004\" class=\"panel-title toggle\"><a data-toggle=\"collapse\" class=\"collapsed\" data-target=\"#collapse-1-10004\" href=\"#collapse-1-10004\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-main\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-sub\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box active-icon awb-icon-minus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><i class=\"fa-fusion-box inactive-icon awb-icon-plus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">WHEN AM I PROTECTED FROM MY CREDITORS?<\/div><\/a><\/h4><\/div><div id=\"collapse-1-10004\" aria-labelledby=\"faq_1-10004\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content post-content\"><p>Generally, you are protected immediately when the case is filed with the court.\u00a0 Upon filing, the \u201cautomatic stay\u201d prohibits all collection efforts including foreclosure, repossession and related legal proceedings including lawsuits and garnishments.\u00a0 Any creditor who intentionally violates this Court ordered \u201cautomatic stay\u201d may be liable to the debtor for damages. \u00a0Please note that not all lawsuits are stopped by filing including criminal proceedings and actions for the collection of alimony, maintenance, or support.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-panel fusion-toggle-no-divider fusion-toggle-boxed-mode panel-default fusion-faq-post fusion-faq-post-9965 chapter-7 \"><span class=\"entry-title rich-snippet-hidden\">WHAT ASSETS DO I GET TO KEEP?<\/span><span class=\"vcard rich-snippet-hidden\"><span class=\"fn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/robert-russell.com\/author\/ddswayne\/\" title=\"Posts by Rob Russell\" rel=\"author\">Rob Russell<\/a><\/span><\/span><span class=\"updated rich-snippet-hidden\">2021-03-07T03:38:01+00:00<\/span><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h4 id=\"faq_1-9965\" class=\"panel-title toggle\"><a data-toggle=\"collapse\" class=\"collapsed\" data-target=\"#collapse-1-9965\" href=\"#collapse-1-9965\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-main\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-sub\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box active-icon awb-icon-minus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><i class=\"fa-fusion-box inactive-icon awb-icon-plus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">WHAT ASSETS DO I GET TO KEEP?<\/div><\/a><\/h4><\/div><div id=\"collapse-1-9965\" aria-labelledby=\"faq_1-9965\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content post-content\"><p><span data-darkreader-inline-color=\"\" data-darkreader-inline-bgimage=\"\" data-darkreader-inline-bgcolor=\"\">Generally speaking, 98% or more of our clients get to\u00a0<b>keep all of their assets<\/b>. The reason for this is that every Debtor gets to keep\/protect a certain amount of assets\/stuff from the Chapter 7 Trustee and creditors.\u00a0 Protected assets are called \u201cexempt\u201d assets.\u00a0 Simply, very few people have \u201ctoo much stuff\u201d, i.e., all their assets are \u201cexempt\u201d and protected.\u00a0<\/span><span data-darkreader-inline-color=\"\" data-darkreader-inline-bgimage=\"\" data-darkreader-inline-bgcolor=\"\">Assets that can be protected\/exempted under federal bankruptcy law can be found in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.law.cornell.edu\/uscode\/text\/11\/522\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>11 USC \u00a7 522<\/strong><\/a>. Assets that can be protected\/exempted under Washington state law can be found, in part, under\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/apps.leg.wa.gov\/rcw\/default.aspx?cite=6.15.010\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>RCW 6.15.010<\/strong><\/a>.\u00a0 Note: If you have a financed house or car that you want to keep, you will, of course, have to keep making the payments.<\/span><span data-darkreader-inline-color=\"\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-panel fusion-toggle-no-divider fusion-toggle-boxed-mode panel-default fusion-faq-post fusion-faq-post-9985 chapter-7 \"><span class=\"entry-title rich-snippet-hidden\">HOW LONG DOES A CHAPTER 7 BANKRUPTCY TAKE?<\/span><span class=\"vcard rich-snippet-hidden\"><span class=\"fn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/robert-russell.com\/author\/ddswayne\/\" title=\"Posts by Rob Russell\" rel=\"author\">Rob Russell<\/a><\/span><\/span><span class=\"updated rich-snippet-hidden\">2021-02-21T17:09:47+00:00<\/span><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h4 id=\"faq_1-9985\" class=\"panel-title toggle\"><a data-toggle=\"collapse\" class=\"collapsed\" data-target=\"#collapse-1-9985\" href=\"#collapse-1-9985\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-main\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-sub\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box active-icon awb-icon-minus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><i class=\"fa-fusion-box inactive-icon awb-icon-plus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">HOW LONG DOES A CHAPTER 7 BANKRUPTCY TAKE?<\/div><\/a><\/h4><\/div><div id=\"collapse-1-9985\" aria-labelledby=\"faq_1-9985\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content post-content\"><p>Once the bankruptcy is filed, the entire Chapter 7 process usually takes about three months. During this process, you must attend one \u201c341 Meeting.\u201d The rest of the time (another 60 days), you are usually just waiting for the time to pass until the entry of your Discharge Order.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-panel fusion-toggle-no-divider fusion-toggle-boxed-mode panel-default fusion-faq-post fusion-faq-post-9950 chapter-7 \"><span class=\"entry-title rich-snippet-hidden\">WHAT IS A CHAPTER 7 DISCHARGE?<\/span><span class=\"vcard rich-snippet-hidden\"><span class=\"fn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/robert-russell.com\/author\/ddswayne\/\" title=\"Posts by Rob Russell\" rel=\"author\">Rob Russell<\/a><\/span><\/span><span class=\"updated rich-snippet-hidden\">2021-12-07T07:16:28+00:00<\/span><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h4 id=\"faq_1-9950\" class=\"panel-title toggle\"><a data-toggle=\"collapse\" class=\"collapsed\" data-target=\"#collapse-1-9950\" href=\"#collapse-1-9950\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-main\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-sub\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box active-icon awb-icon-minus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><i class=\"fa-fusion-box inactive-icon awb-icon-plus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">WHAT IS A CHAPTER 7 DISCHARGE?<\/div><\/a><\/h4><\/div><div id=\"collapse-1-9950\" aria-labelledby=\"faq_1-9950\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content post-content\"><div class=\"fusion-fullwidth fullwidth-box fusion-builder-row-1-1 fusion-flex-container nonhundred-percent-fullwidth non-hundred-percent-height-scrolling\" style=\"--awb-border-radius-top-left:0px;--awb-border-radius-top-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-left:0px;--awb-flex-wrap:wrap;\" ><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start fusion-flex-content-wrap\" style=\"width:calc( 100% + 0px ) !important;max-width:calc( 100% + 0px ) !important;margin-left: calc(-0px \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-0px \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-1 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\" style=\"--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-width-large:100%;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:0px;--awb-margin-bottom-large:0px;--awb-spacing-left-large:0px;--awb-width-medium:100%;--awb-spacing-right-medium:0px;--awb-spacing-left-medium:0px;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-spacing-right-small:0px;--awb-spacing-left-small:0px;\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-2\"><p>Generally, obtaining a \u201cdischarge\u201d (of debt) is the major reason why people file Chapter 7. A \u201cDischarge Order\u201d is an Order of the Bankruptcy Court that, when entered, releases a debtor from the personal obligation to repay the debtor\u2019s discharged debts. The \u201cDischarge Order\u201d also orders creditors to discontinue attempts to collect on a debt that has been discharged.\u00a0\u00a0Check here to see <a href=\"https:\/\/robert-russell.com\/resources\/faqs\/what-debts-are-not-dischargeable-in-a-chapter-7-bankruptcy\/\">which debts are discharged in Chapter 7<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-panel fusion-toggle-no-divider fusion-toggle-boxed-mode panel-default fusion-faq-post fusion-faq-post-9962 chapter-7 \"><span class=\"entry-title rich-snippet-hidden\">WHEN ARE DEBTS DISCHARGED?<\/span><span class=\"vcard rich-snippet-hidden\"><span class=\"fn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/robert-russell.com\/author\/ddswayne\/\" title=\"Posts by Rob Russell\" rel=\"author\">Rob Russell<\/a><\/span><\/span><span class=\"updated rich-snippet-hidden\">2021-12-07T07:17:27+00:00<\/span><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h4 id=\"faq_1-9962\" class=\"panel-title toggle\"><a data-toggle=\"collapse\" class=\"collapsed\" data-target=\"#collapse-1-9962\" href=\"#collapse-1-9962\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-main\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-sub\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box active-icon awb-icon-minus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><i class=\"fa-fusion-box inactive-icon awb-icon-plus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">WHEN ARE DEBTS DISCHARGED?<\/div><\/a><\/h4><\/div><div id=\"collapse-1-9962\" aria-labelledby=\"faq_1-9962\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content post-content\"><div class=\"fusion-fullwidth fullwidth-box fusion-builder-row-1-2 fusion-flex-container nonhundred-percent-fullwidth non-hundred-percent-height-scrolling\" style=\"--awb-border-radius-top-left:0px;--awb-border-radius-top-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-left:0px;--awb-flex-wrap:wrap;\" ><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start fusion-flex-content-wrap\" style=\"width:calc( 100% + 0px ) !important;max-width:calc( 100% + 0px ) !important;margin-left: calc(-0px \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-0px \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-2 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\" style=\"--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-width-large:100%;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:0px;--awb-margin-bottom-large:0px;--awb-spacing-left-large:0px;--awb-width-medium:100%;--awb-spacing-right-medium:0px;--awb-spacing-left-medium:0px;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-spacing-right-small:0px;--awb-spacing-left-small:0px;\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-3\"><p>The basic rule is that all debts are discharged unless they fall into one of the <a href=\"https:\/\/robert-russell.com\/resources\/faqs\/what-debts-are-not-dischargeable-in-a-chapter-7-bankruptcy\/\">several exceptions found in <strong>11 USC \u00a7 523<\/strong><\/a>, including, but not limited to:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-darkreader-inline-color=\"\" data-darkreader-inline-bgimage=\"\" data-darkreader-inline-bgcolor=\"\"><span style=\"font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit;\">Fraud\/theft. Debts resulting from a successful effort to obtain money, property, services, or credit using pretenses, fraud, or a false financial statement\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-darkreader-inline-color=\"\" data-darkreader-inline-bgimage=\"\" data-darkreader-inline-bgcolor=\"\"><span style=\"font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit;\">Child support\/alimony. Debts for alimony, maintenance, or child support.<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-darkreader-inline-color=\"\" data-darkreader-inline-bgimage=\"\" data-darkreader-inline-bgcolor=\"\"><span style=\"font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit;\">Intentional injury. Debts for intentional or malicious injury to the person or property of another.<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-darkreader-inline-color=\"\" data-darkreader-inline-bgimage=\"\" data-darkreader-inline-bgcolor=\"\"><span style=\"font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit;\">Taxes. Debts for certain taxes such as income and property taxes.<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-darkreader-inline-color=\"\" data-darkreader-inline-bgimage=\"\" data-darkreader-inline-bgcolor=\"\"><span style=\"font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit;\">Fines and penalties. Debts for certain fines or penalties, including traffic tickets, payable to and for the benefit of a governmental unit.<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-darkreader-inline-color=\"\" data-darkreader-inline-bgimage=\"\" data-darkreader-inline-bgcolor=\"\"><span style=\"font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit;\">Student loans. Debts for student loans (unless not discharging the debt would impose an undue hardship on the debtor and the debtor\u2019s dependents).<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-darkreader-inline-color=\"\" data-darkreader-inline-bgimage=\"\" data-darkreader-inline-bgcolor=\"\"><span style=\"font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit;\">Intoxication. Debts arising from a judgment or court decree entered against the debtor for damages resulting from the operation of a motor vehicle while legally intoxicated.<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-darkreader-inline-color=\"\" data-darkreader-inline-bgimage=\"\" data-darkreader-inline-bgcolor=\"\"><span style=\"font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit;\">Credit card\/taxes. Credit card balances to the extent that the balance on the card is the result of paying otherwise nondischargeable taxes.<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-darkreader-inline-color=\"\" data-darkreader-inline-bgimage=\"\" data-darkreader-inline-bgcolor=\"\"><span style=\"font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit;\">Certain spousal debts: Debts owed by a debtor to a former spouse that qualifies as a \u201cdomestic support obligation.\u201d This includes child support, alimony, and property settlements, including a debtor\u2019s obligation to pay certain debts for the ex-spouse.<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-darkreader-inline-color=\"\" data-darkreader-inline-bgimage=\"\" data-darkreader-inline-bgcolor=\"\"><span style=\"font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit;\">AFDC. Debts owed to a governmental entity to reimburse AFDC payments made to a dependent.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-panel fusion-toggle-no-divider fusion-toggle-boxed-mode panel-default fusion-faq-post fusion-faq-post-9956 chapter-7 \"><span class=\"entry-title rich-snippet-hidden\">WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR A CHAPTER 7 DISCHARGE?<\/span><span class=\"vcard rich-snippet-hidden\"><span class=\"fn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/robert-russell.com\/author\/ddswayne\/\" title=\"Posts by Rob Russell\" rel=\"author\">Rob Russell<\/a><\/span><\/span><span class=\"updated rich-snippet-hidden\">2021-02-21T17:10:25+00:00<\/span><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h4 id=\"faq_1-9956\" class=\"panel-title toggle\"><a data-toggle=\"collapse\" class=\"collapsed\" data-target=\"#collapse-1-9956\" href=\"#collapse-1-9956\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-main\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-sub\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box active-icon awb-icon-minus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><i class=\"fa-fusion-box inactive-icon awb-icon-plus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR A CHAPTER 7 DISCHARGE?<\/div><\/a><\/h4><\/div><div id=\"collapse-1-9956\" aria-labelledby=\"faq_1-9956\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content post-content\"><div class=\"fusion-fullwidth fullwidth-box fusion-builder-row-1-3 fusion-flex-container nonhundred-percent-fullwidth non-hundred-percent-height-scrolling\" style=\"--awb-border-radius-top-left:0px;--awb-border-radius-top-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-left:0px;--awb-flex-wrap:wrap;\" ><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start fusion-flex-content-wrap\" style=\"width:calc( 100% + 0px ) !important;max-width:calc( 100% + 0px ) !important;margin-left: calc(-0px \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-0px \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-3 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\" style=\"--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-width-large:100%;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:0px;--awb-margin-bottom-large:0px;--awb-spacing-left-large:0px;--awb-width-medium:100%;--awb-spacing-right-medium:0px;--awb-spacing-left-medium:0px;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-spacing-right-small:0px;--awb-spacing-left-small:0px;\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-4\"><p>Generally, everyone experiencing financial hardship is eligible for Chapter 7 relief unless:<\/p>\n<p>(a) you have already filed a Chapter 7 bankruptcy and received a discharge in the last eight years,<\/p>\n<p>(b) you have already filed a Chapter 13 bankruptcy and received a discharge in the last six years (unless you paid 70% of your unsecured claims in that case), or<\/p>\n<p>(c) you have primarily consumer debt and you make too much money to qualify for Chapter 7 relief and\/or abuse of the bankruptcy system would result if you were released from your debt (i.e., it would not be \u201cfair\u201d for you to be granted a discharge).<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-panel fusion-toggle-no-divider fusion-toggle-boxed-mode panel-default fusion-faq-post fusion-faq-post-9983 chapter-7 \"><span class=\"entry-title rich-snippet-hidden\">WILL I HAVE TO GO TO COURT?<\/span><span class=\"vcard rich-snippet-hidden\"><span class=\"fn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/robert-russell.com\/author\/ddswayne\/\" title=\"Posts by Rob Russell\" rel=\"author\">Rob Russell<\/a><\/span><\/span><span class=\"updated rich-snippet-hidden\">2021-02-21T17:10:37+00:00<\/span><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h4 id=\"faq_1-9983\" class=\"panel-title toggle\"><a data-toggle=\"collapse\" class=\"collapsed\" data-target=\"#collapse-1-9983\" href=\"#collapse-1-9983\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-main\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-sub\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box active-icon awb-icon-minus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><i class=\"fa-fusion-box inactive-icon awb-icon-plus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">WILL I HAVE TO GO TO COURT?<\/div><\/a><\/h4><\/div><div id=\"collapse-1-9983\" aria-labelledby=\"faq_1-9983\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content post-content\"><p>A debtor does not generally go to &#8220;court&#8221;. However, there is an administrative hearing called a \u201cMeeting of Creditors\u201d or \u201c341 Meeting\u201d that occurs about 30-40 days after the case is filed. At this hearing, the Chapter 7 Trustee places the debtor under oath and asks questions about the debtor\u2019s identity, money, property, and debts. Generally, a debtor\u2019s creditors do not attend this hearing. However, if one does, the Trustee will give the creditor only a few minutes to ask a few quick questions. Most 341 Meetings take only 5-10 minutes.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-panel fusion-toggle-no-divider fusion-toggle-boxed-mode panel-default fusion-faq-post fusion-faq-post-11100 chapter-7 \"><span class=\"entry-title rich-snippet-hidden\">HOW DO I PREPARE FOR A 341 MEETING?<\/span><span class=\"vcard rich-snippet-hidden\"><span class=\"fn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/robert-russell.com\/author\/ddswayne\/\" title=\"Posts by Rob Russell\" rel=\"author\">Rob Russell<\/a><\/span><\/span><span class=\"updated rich-snippet-hidden\">2021-02-21T17:11:08+00:00<\/span><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h4 id=\"faq_1-11100\" class=\"panel-title toggle\"><a data-toggle=\"collapse\" class=\"collapsed\" data-target=\"#collapse-1-11100\" href=\"#collapse-1-11100\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-main\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-sub\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box active-icon awb-icon-minus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><i class=\"fa-fusion-box inactive-icon awb-icon-plus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">HOW DO I PREPARE FOR A 341 MEETING?<\/div><\/a><\/h4><\/div><div id=\"collapse-1-11100\" aria-labelledby=\"faq_1-11100\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content post-content\"><p><span data-darkreader-inline-color=\"\" data-darkreader-inline-bgimage=\"\" data-darkreader-inline-bgcolor=\"\">Section 341 Meetings are to allow the Chapter 7 Trustee and any interested parties time to ask you questions. The Court normally schedules about 12 meetings an hour. That means each meeting might take about 5 minutes each.\u00a0 So, yes, it\u2019s pretty quick. We give our clients the expected questions ahead of time so you know what to expect. To be ready for the questions, please review your petition thoroughly ahead of time. Please let us know immediately if you see any errors\/corrections or budget updates to make.<\/span><span data-darkreader-inline-color=\"\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-panel fusion-toggle-no-divider fusion-toggle-boxed-mode panel-default fusion-faq-post fusion-faq-post-9952 chapter-7 \"><span class=\"entry-title rich-snippet-hidden\">WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING TO THE CHAPTER 7 341 MEETING?<\/span><span class=\"vcard rich-snippet-hidden\"><span class=\"fn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/robert-russell.com\/author\/ddswayne\/\" title=\"Posts by Rob Russell\" rel=\"author\">Rob Russell<\/a><\/span><\/span><span class=\"updated rich-snippet-hidden\">2021-02-21T17:11:33+00:00<\/span><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h4 id=\"faq_1-9952\" class=\"panel-title toggle\"><a data-toggle=\"collapse\" class=\"collapsed\" data-target=\"#collapse-1-9952\" href=\"#collapse-1-9952\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-main\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-sub\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box active-icon awb-icon-minus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><i class=\"fa-fusion-box inactive-icon awb-icon-plus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING TO THE CHAPTER 7 341 MEETING?<\/div><\/a><\/h4><\/div><div id=\"collapse-1-9952\" aria-labelledby=\"faq_1-9952\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content post-content\"><div class=\"fusion-fullwidth fullwidth-box fusion-builder-row-1-4 fusion-flex-container nonhundred-percent-fullwidth non-hundred-percent-height-scrolling\" style=\"--awb-border-radius-top-left:0px;--awb-border-radius-top-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-left:0px;--awb-flex-wrap:wrap;\" ><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start fusion-flex-content-wrap\" style=\"width:calc( 100% + 0px ) !important;max-width:calc( 100% + 0px ) !important;margin-left: calc(-0px \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-0px \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-4 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\" style=\"--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-width-large:100%;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:0px;--awb-margin-bottom-large:0px;--awb-spacing-left-large:0px;--awb-width-medium:100%;--awb-spacing-right-medium:0px;--awb-spacing-left-medium:0px;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-spacing-right-small:0px;--awb-spacing-left-small:0px;\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-5\"><p><span style=\"background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); color: var(--body_typography-color); font-family: var(--body_typography-font-family); font-size: var(--body_typography-font-size); font-style: var(--body_typography-font-style,normal); font-weight: var(--body_typography-font-weight); letter-spacing: var(--body_typography-letter-spacing);\">Presently, Section 341 First Meetings of Creditors are conducted by phone for health and safety reasons. So, the items debtors used to bring to in-person 341 Meetings are now provided to the Chapter 7 Trustee ahead of the meeting.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>[Those items are a picture ID such as a Driver\u2019s License and proof of your Social Security number such as a Social Security Card, an IRS Form W2 or 1099, or anything else that you did not create that shows your full and accurate SSN.]<\/p>\n<p>If and when we return to in-person 341 Meetings, you should be prepared to bring them with you to the 341 Meeting.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-panel fusion-toggle-no-divider fusion-toggle-boxed-mode panel-default fusion-faq-post fusion-faq-post-9954 chapter-7 \"><span class=\"entry-title rich-snippet-hidden\">HOW MUCH IS THE CHAPTER 7 FILING FEE?<\/span><span class=\"vcard rich-snippet-hidden\"><span class=\"fn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/robert-russell.com\/author\/ddswayne\/\" title=\"Posts by Rob Russell\" rel=\"author\">Rob Russell<\/a><\/span><\/span><span class=\"updated rich-snippet-hidden\">2021-02-21T17:11:44+00:00<\/span><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h4 id=\"faq_1-9954\" class=\"panel-title toggle\"><a data-toggle=\"collapse\" class=\"collapsed\" data-target=\"#collapse-1-9954\" href=\"#collapse-1-9954\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-main\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-sub\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box active-icon awb-icon-minus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><i class=\"fa-fusion-box inactive-icon awb-icon-plus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">HOW MUCH IS THE CHAPTER 7 FILING FEE?<\/div><\/a><\/h4><\/div><div id=\"collapse-1-9954\" aria-labelledby=\"faq_1-9954\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content post-content\"><p><span style=\"color: #4d4d4f; font-family: Roboto, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;\">The filing fee is presently $338.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-panel fusion-toggle-no-divider fusion-toggle-boxed-mode panel-default fusion-faq-post fusion-faq-post-9971 chapter-7 \"><span class=\"entry-title rich-snippet-hidden\">WHAT HAPPENS TO MY CREDIT?<\/span><span class=\"vcard rich-snippet-hidden\"><span class=\"fn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/robert-russell.com\/author\/ddswayne\/\" title=\"Posts by Rob Russell\" rel=\"author\">Rob Russell<\/a><\/span><\/span><span class=\"updated rich-snippet-hidden\">2021-03-07T03:39:16+00:00<\/span><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h4 id=\"faq_1-9971\" class=\"panel-title toggle\"><a data-toggle=\"collapse\" class=\"collapsed\" data-target=\"#collapse-1-9971\" href=\"#collapse-1-9971\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-main\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-sub\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box active-icon awb-icon-minus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><i class=\"fa-fusion-box inactive-icon awb-icon-plus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">WHAT HAPPENS TO MY CREDIT?<\/div><\/a><\/h4><\/div><div id=\"collapse-1-9971\" aria-labelledby=\"faq_1-9971\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content post-content\"><p>A Chapter 7 bankruptcy can be noted on your credit report for 10 years. However, filing bankruptcy does NOT mean that your credit is \u201cruined\u201d for 10 years. First, credit scores normally rebound after Chapter 7 withing 12 to 24 months. What really matters is what have you done after filing to improve your credit &#8211; make sure you make good credit decisions after your bankruptcy completes including making new debt payments on time. Second, it important to remember that you filed because you could not pay your debts on time. If you can\u2019t pay your debts on time, then your credit report can show continue to show the the new missed payments for at least another 7 years. Further, if you can\u2019t pay your debts on time, then creditors can get a judgment. That can allow them to garnish your wages and lien your home. And in Washington, judgments can follow you for ten years AND creditors can renew unpaid judgments for another 10 years. So, you can see that if you need to file bankruptcy, not filing can be much worse for a much longer period.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-panel fusion-toggle-no-divider fusion-toggle-boxed-mode panel-default fusion-faq-post fusion-faq-post-9969 chapter-7 \"><span class=\"entry-title rich-snippet-hidden\">WILL I EVER BE ABLE TO BUY A HOUSE?<\/span><span class=\"vcard rich-snippet-hidden\"><span class=\"fn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/robert-russell.com\/author\/ddswayne\/\" title=\"Posts by Rob Russell\" rel=\"author\">Rob Russell<\/a><\/span><\/span><span class=\"updated rich-snippet-hidden\">2021-03-07T03:38:49+00:00<\/span><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h4 id=\"faq_1-9969\" class=\"panel-title toggle\"><a data-toggle=\"collapse\" class=\"collapsed\" data-target=\"#collapse-1-9969\" href=\"#collapse-1-9969\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-main\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-sub\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box active-icon awb-icon-minus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><i class=\"fa-fusion-box inactive-icon awb-icon-plus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">WILL I EVER BE ABLE TO BUY A HOUSE?<\/div><\/a><\/h4><\/div><div id=\"collapse-1-9969\" aria-labelledby=\"faq_1-9969\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content post-content\"><p>Most mortgage lenders tell us that after 2-5 years, bankruptcy doesn\u2019t hurt your chances of buying a home. However, you will have to check with various lenders to find out their specific policies. Different lenders have different rules.\u00a0But is just wrong to say that Chapter 7 prohibits you from obtaining a home loan for any extended period.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-panel fusion-toggle-no-divider fusion-toggle-boxed-mode panel-default fusion-faq-post fusion-faq-post-9981 chapter-13 chapter-7 \"><span class=\"entry-title rich-snippet-hidden\">IS BANKRUPTCY IMMORAL? AM I JUST TAKING THE EASY WAY OUT?<\/span><span class=\"vcard rich-snippet-hidden\"><span class=\"fn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/robert-russell.com\/author\/ddswayne\/\" title=\"Posts by Rob Russell\" rel=\"author\">Rob Russell<\/a><\/span><\/span><span class=\"updated rich-snippet-hidden\">2021-03-12T19:36:41+00:00<\/span><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h4 id=\"faq_1-9981\" class=\"panel-title toggle\"><a data-toggle=\"collapse\" class=\"collapsed\" data-target=\"#collapse-1-9981\" href=\"#collapse-1-9981\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-main\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-sub\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box active-icon awb-icon-minus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><i class=\"fa-fusion-box inactive-icon awb-icon-plus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">IS BANKRUPTCY IMMORAL? AM I JUST TAKING THE EASY WAY OUT?<\/div><\/a><\/h4><\/div><div id=\"collapse-1-9981\" aria-labelledby=\"faq_1-9981\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content post-content\"><div class=\"fusion-fullwidth fullwidth-box fusion-builder-row-1-5 fusion-flex-container nonhundred-percent-fullwidth non-hundred-percent-height-scrolling\" style=\"--awb-border-radius-top-left:0px;--awb-border-radius-top-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-left:0px;--awb-flex-wrap:wrap;\" ><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start fusion-flex-content-wrap\" style=\"width:calc( 100% + 0px ) !important;max-width:calc( 100% + 0px ) !important;margin-left: calc(-0px \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-0px \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-5 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\" style=\"--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-width-large:100%;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:0px;--awb-margin-bottom-large:0px;--awb-spacing-left-large:0px;--awb-width-medium:100%;--awb-spacing-right-medium:0px;--awb-spacing-left-medium:0px;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-spacing-right-small:0px;--awb-spacing-left-small:0px;\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-6\"><p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some people argue that filing bankruptcy is taking the easy way out. I suppose that it could be the \u201ceasy way out\u201d if you never tried any other way to pay your debts. However, most people try their best to avoid bankruptcy. Some people even sacrifice their health and relationships to pay bills that are beyond their ability to pay. Bankruptcy is a gut-wrenching experience that most people try very hard to avoid.<\/p>\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Also, bankruptcy is a legal remedy made available by your United States\u2019 Constitution. It was recognized by our Founding Fathers that there are certain circumstances where a person or family simply needs relief from their debts. And bankruptcy relief is only available to people that actually qualify for assistance.<\/p>\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Is it wrong to file bankruptcy? No, not if you need the help. You should not be forced into virtual life-long servitude to your creditors because you had a medical emergency, loss of employment,\u00a0even made bad financial decisions or a worldwide pandemic occurred.\u00a0Bankruptcy is rarely the first choice. But sometimes it is simply the best choice when all the options are considered.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-panel fusion-toggle-no-divider fusion-toggle-boxed-mode panel-default fusion-faq-post fusion-faq-post-9976 chapter-7 \"><span class=\"entry-title rich-snippet-hidden\">WHO WILL KNOW THAT I FILED BANKRUPTCY?<\/span><span class=\"vcard rich-snippet-hidden\"><span class=\"fn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/robert-russell.com\/author\/ddswayne\/\" title=\"Posts by Rob Russell\" rel=\"author\">Rob Russell<\/a><\/span><\/span><span class=\"updated rich-snippet-hidden\">2021-02-21T17:12:59+00:00<\/span><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h4 id=\"faq_1-9976\" class=\"panel-title toggle\"><a data-toggle=\"collapse\" class=\"collapsed\" data-target=\"#collapse-1-9976\" href=\"#collapse-1-9976\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-main\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-sub\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box active-icon awb-icon-minus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><i class=\"fa-fusion-box inactive-icon awb-icon-plus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">WHO WILL KNOW THAT I FILED BANKRUPTCY?<\/div><\/a><\/h4><\/div><div id=\"collapse-1-9976\" aria-labelledby=\"faq_1-9976\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content post-content\"><p><a title=\"Bankruptcy\" href=\"https:\/\/robert-russell.com\/lawyer-practice-areas\/bankruptcy-attorney-vancouver-wa\/\">Bankruptcy<\/a>\u00a0is a matter of public record. However, generally, it is not publicized beyond notice to your creditors and co-debtors. Employers and newspapers are NOT generally notified of the bankruptcy.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-panel fusion-toggle-no-divider fusion-toggle-boxed-mode panel-default fusion-faq-post fusion-faq-post-9987 chapter-7 \"><span class=\"entry-title rich-snippet-hidden\">HOW CAN I AVOID PROBLEMS IN MY CHAPTER 7 BANKRUPTCY?<\/span><span class=\"vcard rich-snippet-hidden\"><span class=\"fn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/robert-russell.com\/author\/ddswayne\/\" title=\"Posts by Rob Russell\" rel=\"author\">Rob Russell<\/a><\/span><\/span><span class=\"updated rich-snippet-hidden\">2021-02-21T17:13:17+00:00<\/span><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h4 id=\"faq_1-9987\" class=\"panel-title toggle\"><a data-toggle=\"collapse\" class=\"collapsed\" data-target=\"#collapse-1-9987\" href=\"#collapse-1-9987\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-main\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-sub\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box active-icon awb-icon-minus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><i class=\"fa-fusion-box inactive-icon awb-icon-plus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">HOW CAN I AVOID PROBLEMS IN MY CHAPTER 7 BANKRUPTCY?<\/div><\/a><\/h4><\/div><div id=\"collapse-1-9987\" aria-labelledby=\"faq_1-9987\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content post-content\"><p>The following people should expect \u201cproblems\u201d in bankruptcy:<\/p>\n<p>(a) Persons who conceal, transfer, or destroy their property with the intent to defraud their creditors or the Trustee in the Chapter 7 case.<\/p>\n<p>(b) Persons who conceal, destroy, or falsify records of their financial condition or business transactions.<\/p>\n<p>(c) Persons who make false statements or claims in their Chapter 7 case, or who withhold recorded information from the Trustee in the case.<\/p>\n<p>(d) Persons who fail to satisfactorily explain any loss or deficiency of their assets.<\/p>\n<p>(e) Persons who refuse to answer questions or obey orders of the Bankruptcy Court, either in their case or in the case of a relative, business associate, or corporation.<\/p>\n<p>(f) Persons who have engaged in pre-filing activity with the intent to defraud creditors.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-panel fusion-toggle-no-divider fusion-toggle-boxed-mode panel-default fusion-faq-post fusion-faq-post-9967 chapter-7 \"><span class=\"entry-title rich-snippet-hidden\">CAN I LOSE MY PROPERTY?<\/span><span class=\"vcard rich-snippet-hidden\"><span class=\"fn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/robert-russell.com\/author\/ddswayne\/\" title=\"Posts by Rob Russell\" rel=\"author\">Rob Russell<\/a><\/span><\/span><span class=\"updated rich-snippet-hidden\">2021-03-07T03:38:24+00:00<\/span><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h4 id=\"faq_1-9967\" class=\"panel-title toggle\"><a data-toggle=\"collapse\" class=\"collapsed\" data-target=\"#collapse-1-9967\" href=\"#collapse-1-9967\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-main\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-sub\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box active-icon awb-icon-minus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><i class=\"fa-fusion-box inactive-icon awb-icon-plus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">CAN I LOSE MY PROPERTY?<\/div><\/a><\/h4><\/div><div id=\"collapse-1-9967\" aria-labelledby=\"faq_1-9967\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content post-content\"><p>It is unusual, but it\u2019s possible. There are several ways to lose property in Chapter 7.<\/p>\n<p>The first is if that property is not fully \u201cexempt,\u201d i.e., the value\/equity in the property exceeds the amount that you can protect\/exempt by law from your creditors. In this case, the Trustee sells the asset, gives you the amount\/value that you could exempt, and uses the rest of the money to pay creditors. The second is if you try to hide it from the Chapter 7 Trustee, and the Trustee finds out about it. In that case, you cannot exempt it at all. The trustee sells the asset and gives all the money to creditors. The third way is if the asset is a financed car or house, etc. and you just don\u2019t want it. In that case, you can choose to return the asset (aka \u201ccollateral\u201d) and have the debt discharged. The last way is that if you have a financed car or house and you do not continue making payments on it. After the case completes (or before if the creditor asks the court for permission), the creditor can take action to repossess a vehicle and foreclose on a home.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-panel fusion-toggle-no-divider fusion-toggle-boxed-mode panel-default fusion-faq-post fusion-faq-post-11212 chapter-13 chapter-7 \"><span class=\"entry-title rich-snippet-hidden\">What Does It Costs to Get Copies of Our Court Documents from Our Attorney?<\/span><span class=\"vcard rich-snippet-hidden\"><span class=\"fn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/robert-russell.com\/author\/ddswayne\/\" title=\"Posts by Rob Russell\" rel=\"author\">Rob Russell<\/a><\/span><\/span><span class=\"updated rich-snippet-hidden\">2021-03-12T19:37:26+00:00<\/span><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h4 id=\"faq_1-11212\" class=\"panel-title toggle\"><a data-toggle=\"collapse\" class=\"collapsed\" data-target=\"#collapse-1-11212\" href=\"#collapse-1-11212\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-main\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-sub\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box active-icon awb-icon-minus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><i class=\"fa-fusion-box inactive-icon awb-icon-plus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">What Does It Costs to Get Copies of Our Court Documents from Our Attorney?<\/div><\/a><\/h4><\/div><div id=\"collapse-1-11212\" aria-labelledby=\"faq_1-11212\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content post-content\"><p>We provide all our clients copies of all documents filed with the court.\u00a0 If you lose them and need copies in the future, you have two options.\u00a0 You can order them from us, and (as with the Court) there is a small charge for us to gather and provide them again.\u00a0 HOWEVER, for new cases filed starting 2021, all clients will have\u00a0<b>free<\/b>\u00a0<b>access<\/b>\u00a0to many documents filed with the Court via our online client access portal.\u00a0 Documents available include the Bankruptcy Petition and Discharge Order.\u00a0 If you do not have and want such access, please let us know and we\u2019ll provide information.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-panel fusion-toggle-no-divider fusion-toggle-boxed-mode panel-default fusion-faq-post fusion-faq-post-11214 chapter-13 chapter-7 \"><span class=\"entry-title rich-snippet-hidden\">How do I get a free copy of my credit report?<\/span><span class=\"vcard rich-snippet-hidden\"><span class=\"fn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/robert-russell.com\/author\/ddswayne\/\" title=\"Posts by Rob Russell\" rel=\"author\">Rob Russell<\/a><\/span><\/span><span class=\"updated rich-snippet-hidden\">2021-03-12T19:37:12+00:00<\/span><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h4 id=\"faq_1-11214\" class=\"panel-title toggle\"><a data-toggle=\"collapse\" class=\"collapsed\" data-target=\"#collapse-1-11214\" href=\"#collapse-1-11214\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-main\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-sub\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box active-icon awb-icon-minus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><i class=\"fa-fusion-box inactive-icon awb-icon-plus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">How do I get a free copy of my credit report?<\/div><\/a><\/h4><\/div><div id=\"collapse-1-11214\" aria-labelledby=\"faq_1-11214\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content post-content\"><p>The federal Fair Credit Reporting Act requires each of the nationwide consumer reporting agency to provide you with a free copy of your credit report, at your request, once every 12 months. The reports are available on-line <a href=\"https:\/\/www.annualcreditreport.com\/index.action\">here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-panel fusion-toggle-no-divider fusion-toggle-boxed-mode panel-default fusion-faq-post fusion-faq-post-11216 chapter-13 chapter-7 \"><span class=\"entry-title rich-snippet-hidden\">How Much Does it Cost to Get Copies of My Documents From the Court?<\/span><span class=\"vcard rich-snippet-hidden\"><span class=\"fn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/robert-russell.com\/author\/ddswayne\/\" title=\"Posts by Rob Russell\" rel=\"author\">Rob Russell<\/a><\/span><\/span><span class=\"updated rich-snippet-hidden\">2021-03-12T19:37:40+00:00<\/span><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h4 id=\"faq_1-11216\" class=\"panel-title toggle\"><a data-toggle=\"collapse\" class=\"collapsed\" data-target=\"#collapse-1-11216\" href=\"#collapse-1-11216\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-main\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-sub\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box active-icon awb-icon-minus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><i class=\"fa-fusion-box inactive-icon awb-icon-plus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">How Much Does it Cost to Get Copies of My Documents From the Court?<\/div><\/a><\/h4><\/div><div id=\"collapse-1-11216\" aria-labelledby=\"faq_1-11216\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content post-content\"><p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Documents filed on and after 5\/17\/2001 are stored electronically on the court&#8217;s computer system (CM\/ECF). To obtain copies of these documents, you have the following options:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong> Internet (PACER)<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Contact the PACER Service Center at\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.pacer.gov\/\" data-saferedirecturl=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/url?q=http:\/\/www.pacer.gov\/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1615175382535000&amp;usg=AFQjCNHaiUfz6j82ySMrYmpEWBAGEUl0Bw\">www.pacer.gov(link is external)<\/a>\u00a0for registration information about obtaining a PACER account. A PACER fee of $0.10 per page applies.\u00a0<strong>Please note:<\/strong>\u00a0 PACER restricts all documents in bankruptcy cases that were filed before 12\/01\/2003 and have been closed for more than one year. While unavailable to the general public via PACER, copies of restricted documents can be obtained via the public terminals in the clerk&#8217;s office lobby in Seattle and Tacoma or via mail request. See\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.wawb.uscourts.gov\/news\/restricted-access-certain-documents-pacer\" data-saferedirecturl=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/url?q=https:\/\/www.wawb.uscourts.gov\/news\/restricted-access-certain-documents-pacer&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1615175382535000&amp;usg=AFQjCNH43ka0gtwKMjWVs60LfGZye1XFnQ\">Restricted Access to Certain Documents in PACER<\/a>.<\/p>\n<ol start=\"2\">\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong> Visit the Clerk\u2019s office<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you come to the Bankruptcy Court in person for your copies, the copy fee is $0.10 per page when using the computer in the court\u2019s lobby. A copy fee of $0.50 per page applies if a clerk makes the copies. An $11.00 certification fee applies for each document that needs a certification.<\/p>\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Exact cash, cashier\u2019s check or money order is required.<\/p>\n<ol start=\"3\">\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong> Mail a request to the Clerk\u2019s office<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you mail a copy request to the Bankruptcy Court, the copy fee is $0.50 per page. Please contact the Clerk\u2019s office to determine the number of pages. An $11.00 certification fee applies for each document that needs a certification.<\/p>\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Each written request should include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">debtor(s) name and case number<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">documents to be copied<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">your name (if you are not the debtor) and daytime phone number<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">address where the documents should be mailed<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The cashier\u2019s check or money order should be made payable to \u201cU.S. Bankruptcy Court.\u201d You may mail your copy request to the Bankruptcy Court at either location:<\/p>\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">U.S. Bankruptcy Court\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 U.S. Bankruptcy Court<br \/>\n700 Stewart Street, #6301\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 1717 Pacific Avenue, #2100<br \/>\nSeattle, WA\u00a0 98101\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Tacoma, WA\u00a0 98402<\/p>\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-panel fusion-toggle-no-divider fusion-toggle-boxed-mode panel-default fusion-faq-post fusion-faq-post-11218 chapter-7 \"><span class=\"entry-title rich-snippet-hidden\">How Much is the Usual Chapter 7 Attorney Fee?<\/span><span class=\"vcard rich-snippet-hidden\"><span class=\"fn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/robert-russell.com\/author\/ddswayne\/\" title=\"Posts by Rob Russell\" rel=\"author\">Rob Russell<\/a><\/span><\/span><span class=\"updated rich-snippet-hidden\">2021-03-07T04:30:58+00:00<\/span><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h4 id=\"faq_1-11218\" class=\"panel-title toggle\"><a data-toggle=\"collapse\" class=\"collapsed\" data-target=\"#collapse-1-11218\" href=\"#collapse-1-11218\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-main\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-sub\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box active-icon awb-icon-minus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><i class=\"fa-fusion-box inactive-icon awb-icon-plus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">How Much is the Usual Chapter 7 Attorney Fee?<\/div><\/a><\/h4><\/div><div id=\"collapse-1-11218\" aria-labelledby=\"faq_1-11218\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content post-content\"><p>I hate to give the lawyer answer, but \u201cit depends\u201d.\u00a0 Our fee for a normal\/simple Chapter 7 case is certainly no more than other law firms typically charge.\u00a0 So, how do you choose?\u00a0 Look at our reviews and experience.\u00a0 (See our <a href=\"https:\/\/robert-russell.com\/about-our-law-group\/vancouver-wa-lawyer-testimonials\/\">client testimonials\u00a0<\/a><u>here!<\/u>)\u00a0\u00a0 And, yes, we do have payment plans for attorney fees, if needed.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-panel fusion-toggle-no-divider fusion-toggle-boxed-mode panel-default fusion-faq-post fusion-faq-post-11224 chapter-13 chapter-7 \"><span class=\"entry-title rich-snippet-hidden\">What Does It Cost if you Pick the Wrong Attorney?<\/span><span class=\"vcard rich-snippet-hidden\"><span class=\"fn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/robert-russell.com\/author\/ddswayne\/\" title=\"Posts by Rob Russell\" rel=\"author\">Rob Russell<\/a><\/span><\/span><span class=\"updated rich-snippet-hidden\">2021-03-12T19:33:34+00:00<\/span><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h4 id=\"faq_1-11224\" class=\"panel-title toggle\"><a data-toggle=\"collapse\" class=\"collapsed\" data-target=\"#collapse-1-11224\" href=\"#collapse-1-11224\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-main\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-sub\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box active-icon awb-icon-minus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><i class=\"fa-fusion-box inactive-icon awb-icon-plus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">What Does It Cost if you Pick the Wrong Attorney?<\/div><\/a><\/h4><\/div><div id=\"collapse-1-11224\" aria-labelledby=\"faq_1-11224\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content post-content\"><p>We know that you don\u2019t have a lot of money.\u00a0 That\u2019s why you are here.\u00a0 But just be careful picking an attorney that is cheaper and\/or less experienced.\u00a0 It might just cost you more in money, time, stress and\/or aggravation.\u00a0 We are hired from time to time to fix problems in some of those cases.\u00a0 Just be careful.\u00a0 And remember \u2026 we have payment plans and will work with you and how to pay for the bankruptcy.\u00a0 (See our client testimonials\u00a0<u><a href=\"https:\/\/robert-russell.com\/about-our-law-group\/vancouver-wa-lawyer-testimonials\/\">here<\/a>!<\/u>)<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-panel fusion-toggle-no-divider fusion-toggle-boxed-mode panel-default fusion-faq-post fusion-faq-post-11226 chapter-13 chapter-7 \"><span class=\"entry-title rich-snippet-hidden\">How Much is the Initial Bankruptcy Consultation?<\/span><span class=\"vcard rich-snippet-hidden\"><span class=\"fn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/robert-russell.com\/author\/ddswayne\/\" title=\"Posts by Rob Russell\" rel=\"author\">Rob Russell<\/a><\/span><\/span><span class=\"updated rich-snippet-hidden\">2021-03-07T04:32:42+00:00<\/span><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h4 id=\"faq_1-11226\" class=\"panel-title toggle\"><a data-toggle=\"collapse\" class=\"collapsed\" data-target=\"#collapse-1-11226\" href=\"#collapse-1-11226\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-main\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-sub\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box active-icon awb-icon-minus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><i class=\"fa-fusion-box inactive-icon awb-icon-plus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">How Much is the Initial Bankruptcy Consultation?<\/div><\/a><\/h4><\/div><div id=\"collapse-1-11226\" aria-labelledby=\"faq_1-11226\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content post-content\"><p>You don\u2019t have to pay anything to meet with us.\u00a0\u00a0 The only exception might be those few with more complicated business issues (because they often take more time and have complicated issues). \u00a0If you drive for Uber or have a small home business, there is no cost to meet.\u00a0 \u00a0So, if you have the normal car, house, credit card, medical debts etc, it\u2019s\u00a0<b>no cost<\/b>\u00a0to review the issues and options.\u00a0 If you hire us, then the time spent during the initial consult is just included in the normal fee.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-panel fusion-toggle-no-divider fusion-toggle-boxed-mode panel-default fusion-faq-post fusion-faq-post-11394 chapter-7 \"><span class=\"entry-title rich-snippet-hidden\">What are 341 Meeting Questions?<\/span><span class=\"vcard rich-snippet-hidden\"><span class=\"fn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/robert-russell.com\/author\/ddswayne\/\" title=\"Posts by Rob Russell\" rel=\"author\">Rob Russell<\/a><\/span><\/span><span class=\"updated rich-snippet-hidden\">2021-04-21T08:35:22+00:00<\/span><div class=\"panel-heading\"><h4 id=\"faq_1-11394\" class=\"panel-title toggle\"><a data-toggle=\"collapse\" class=\"collapsed\" data-target=\"#collapse-1-11394\" href=\"#collapse-1-11394\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-main\"><div class=\"fusion-toggle-icon-wrapper-sub\"><i class=\"fa-fusion-box active-icon awb-icon-minus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><i class=\"fa-fusion-box inactive-icon awb-icon-plus\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-toggle-heading\">What are 341 Meeting Questions?<\/div><\/a><\/h4><\/div><div id=\"collapse-1-11394\" aria-labelledby=\"faq_1-11394\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\"><div class=\"panel-body toggle-content post-content\"><p><b>\u201c341 Meeting\u201d Questions &#8211; Chapter 7<\/b><\/p>\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Approximately 30 days after your case is filed, you must \u201cattend\u201d a Section 341 First Meeting of Creditors (\u201c341 Meeting\u201d) where the Trustee will ask you questions about your bankruptcy petition, etc. Listed below are the range of standard questions asked by a trustee.\u00a0 Additional questions may be asked depending on your answers to these questions or particular facts of your case.\u00a0 A 341 Meeting normally takes no more than about 5 minutes.<\/p>\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><b><strong style=\"font-style: inherit;\"><u>Sample Questions<\/u><\/strong><\/b><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do you swear to tell the truth under penalty of perjury?<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What is your name and work address?<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Did you read your Bankruptcy petition and schedules before you signed them?<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Did you list all assets and debts?<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Did you list your income and expenses?<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To the best of your knowledge, were petition and schedules true and accurate when you signed them?<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Are they still true and accurate today?\u00a0 (Do you have an errors or omissions to correct?)<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do you have any corrections or changes to bring to my attention?<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Have your financial circumstances changed since the date of filing?\u00a0 (New job, etc)<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Did you have a chance to read the \u201cBankruptcy Information Sheet\u201d handout from the United States Trustee?\u00a0 (Have you read everything Mr. Russell\u2019s office has given you to read?)<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do you owe or pay any spousal or child support?<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Have you ever filed bankruptcy before (or anytime in the last 8 years)?<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">On the date of filing did anyone owe you any money?<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">On the date of filing did you have any legal claims you might be able to raise against another such as personal injury claim resulting from a car accident?<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Other than this proceeding, have you met with or hired any other lawyer in the last 4 years?<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Were you garnished in the 90 days before this case was filed?<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do you deposit money into anyone else\u2019s account?<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do you think it\u2019s likely you could inherit some money or property in the near future?\u00a0 If anyone dies in the next six months, do you promise to let me and\/or your attorney know because that would be part of this bankruptcy? (Yes, you do.)<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Have you ever been self-employed or run a business?<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Have you owed or made payment on a land or home in the last 10 years?<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In the last 4 years have you sold, transferred, given away or disposed or any real or personal property worth more than $1,000.00?<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Have you paid any money to any family member or friend in the last year?<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Have you paid more than $1,000 in total to any single creditor in the 90 days prior to filing?<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do you have any virtual or online accounts such as Venmo or Paypal?<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do you now or have you ever owned or used any cryptocurrency such as Bitcoin?<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"fusion-fullwidth fullwidth-box fusion-builder-row-2 fusion-flex-container nonhundred-percent-fullwidth non-hundred-percent-height-scrolling\" style=\"--awb-border-radius-top-left:0px;--awb-border-radius-top-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-left:0px;--awb-flex-wrap:wrap;\" ><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start fusion-flex-content-wrap\" style=\"max-width:1248px;margin-left: calc(-4% \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-4% \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-6 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\" style=\"--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-width-large:100%;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:1.92%;--awb-margin-bottom-large:0px;--awb-spacing-left-large:1.92%;--awb-width-medium:100%;--awb-order-medium:0;--awb-spacing-right-medium:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-medium:1.92%;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-order-small:0;--awb-spacing-right-small:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-small:1.92%;\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-column-has-shadow fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\"><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-builder-row-inner fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start fusion-flex-content-wrap\" style=\"width:104% !important;max-width:104% !important;margin-left: calc(-4% \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-4% \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column_inner fusion-builder-nested-column-0 fusion_builder_column_inner_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\" style=\"--awb-padding-top:20px;--awb-padding-right:20px;--awb-padding-bottom:20px;--awb-padding-left:20px;--awb-overflow:hidden;--awb-bg-color:#0b3d4f;--awb-bg-color-hover:#0b3d4f;--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-box-shadow: 0px 0px ;;--awb-border-radius:20px 20px 20px 20px;--awb-width-large:100%;--awb-margin-top-large:20px;--awb-spacing-right-large:1.92%;--awb-margin-bottom-large:20px;--awb-spacing-left-large:1.92%;--awb-width-medium:100%;--awb-order-medium:0;--awb-spacing-right-medium:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-medium:1.92%;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-order-small:0;--awb-spacing-right-small:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-small:1.92%;\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-column-has-shadow fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\"><div class=\"fusion-title title fusion-title-2 fusion-sep-none fusion-title-center fusion-title-text fusion-title-size-two\" style=\"--awb-text-color:#ffffff;\"><h2 class=\"fusion-title-heading title-heading-center fusion-responsive-typography-calculated\" style=\"margin:0;--fontSize:32;line-height:1.31;\"><p style=\"text-align: center;\">Facing Debt or Financial Problems?<\/p><\/h2><\/div><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-7\" style=\"--awb-text-color:#ffffff;\"><p style=\"text-align: center;\">You can still regain control of your finances by reaching out to an experienced bankruptcy attorney in Washington. Let us help you resolve your financial issues skillfully, protect your assets with compassion, and utilize every means possible to achieve your desired results. Contact us for a free consultation today.<\/p>\n<\/div><div style=\"text-align:center;\"><a class=\"fusion-button button-flat fusion-button-default-size button-custom fusion-button-default button-2 fusion-button-default-span fusion-button-default-type freeconsult\" style=\"--button_accent_color:#ffffff;--button_border_color:#ffffff;--button_accent_hover_color:#ffffff;--button_border_hover_color:#ffffff;--button_border_width-top:0px;--button_border_width-right:0px;--button_border_width-bottom:0px;--button_border_width-left:0px;--button-border-radius-top-left:10px;--button-border-radius-top-right:10px;--button-border-radius-bottom-right:10px;--button-border-radius-bottom-left:10px;--button_gradient_top_color:#6c2122;--button_gradient_bottom_color:#6c2122;--button_gradient_top_color_hover:#928c8c;--button_gradient_bottom_color_hover:#928c8c;--button_text_transform:uppercase;--button_margin-right:10px;--button_margin-left:10px;\" target=\"_self\"><span class=\"fusion-button-text\">BREAK FREE FROM DEBT TODAY!<\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":0,"parent":56,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/robert-russell.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/61"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/robert-russell.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/robert-russell.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/robert-russell.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/robert-russell.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=61"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/robert-russell.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/61\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":12206,"href":"https:\/\/robert-russell.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/61\/revisions\/12206"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/robert-russell.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/56"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/robert-russell.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=61"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}