Bankruptcy - United States Courts Filing bankruptcy can help a person by discarding debt or making a plan to repay debts A bankruptcy case normally begins when the debtor files a petition with the bankruptcy court
Process - Bankruptcy Basics - United States Courts Six basic types of bankruptcy cases are provided for under the Bankruptcy Code, each of which is discussed in this publication The cases are traditionally given the names of the chapters that describe them
Filing Without an Attorney - United States Courts Individuals can file bankruptcy without an attorney, which is called filing pro se However, seeking the advice of a qualified attorney is strongly recommended because bankruptcy has long-term financial and legal outcomes
Chapter 7 - Bankruptcy Basics - United States Courts Such debtors should consider filing a petition under chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code Under chapter 11, the debtor may seek an adjustment of debts, either by reducing the debt or by extending the time for repayment, or may seek a more comprehensive reorganization
Chapter 13 - Bankruptcy Basics - United States Courts Chapter 13 - Bankruptcy Basics Chapter 13 of the Bankruptcy Code provides for adjustment of debts of an individual with regular income Chapter 13 allows a debtor to keep property and pay debts over time, usually three to five years
Bankruptcy Case Records Credit Reporting - United States Courts You may also access bankruptcy case records online through Public Access to Court Electronic Records (PACER) You will need to sign up for a PACER account to search for and view records online
Discharge in Bankruptcy - Bankruptcy Basics - United States Courts To object to the debtor's discharge, a creditor must file a complaint in the bankruptcy court before the deadline set out in the notice Filing a complaint starts a lawsuit referred to in bankruptcy as an "adversary proceeding "