How long does a bankruptcy case take?

A Chapter 7 bankruptcy case typically takes about 3 to 6 months from filing to discharge, while a Chapter 13 case usually lasts between 3 and 5 years due to the repayment plan.

Will filing bankruptcy stop eviction?

Filing bankruptcy can delay an eviction through the automatic stay, but the outcome depends on timing, the stage of the eviction, and local laws.

Can all debts be erased in bankruptcy?

No. Certain debts usually remain after bankruptcy, including child support, alimony, and some recent tax obligations.

Do I need to appear in court for bankruptcy?

Most filers are only required to attend a 341 meeting of creditors, which is typically brief and does not involve appearing before a judge in a courtroom.

Will bankruptcy hurt future loans?

Bankruptcy can affect loan eligibility initially, but many people rebuild their credit over time through responsible credit use.

Bankruptcy Attorney NE DC | Erica R.S. Hunt, LLC

What Happens After Filing With a Bankruptcy Attorney in NE DC?

Filing for bankruptcy can feel scary. Bills keep coming, calls from collectors don’t stop, and stress piles up. After hiring a bankruptcy attorney in NE DC, the process starts to make sense.

You’ll see a clear path forward. Steps are designed to protect you, stop creditor harassment, and help you get back on track financially. Knowing what happens after filing makes things less stressful.

It also helps you understand what to expect in the weeks and months ahead.

Bankruptcy Attorney in NE DC

Step One: The Automatic Stay Protects You

Once you file, the law puts a pause on most debt collection. This is called the automatic stay. It works like a stop sign for creditors.

Here’s what usually stops:

Collection calls and emails
Wage garnishments
Foreclosure actions
Lawsuits related to debt
Utility shutoff threats

Some things keep going, like child support or certain taxes. Still, the automatic stay gives breathing room. You won’t have creditors breathing down your neck while your case moves forward.

Step Two: Your Case Gets Official

After filing, the court assigns your case a number and a trustee. The trustee isn’t a judge. They check your paperwork and make sure everything is correct.

During this stage, you’ll:

List all your debts
Show your income and expenses
Explain what assets you have

It’s important to be accurate. Mistakes can slow things down. A good bankruptcy attorney in NE DC helps make sure your paperwork is right the first time.

Step Three: Credit Counseling and Debtor Education

Bankruptcy law requires two courses. Don’t worry, they’re not scary. They are meant to help you manage money better.

Credit counseling comes before filing
Debtor education happens after filing

Both courses are short and online. Certificates from these courses must be filed with the court. Missing them can cause delays. Think of this as a guide to help you rebuild your finances.

Step Four: The Meeting of Creditors (341 Meeting)

The 341 meeting is short and simple. Despite the name, creditors rarely show up.

During this meeting:

The trustee asks basic questions about your finances
You prove your identity
They check your documents

Most meetings last less than ten minutes. It’s not a courtroom. No judge is involved. Just honest answers and basic questions. Preparation makes this step easier.

Step Five: Chapter Choice Changes the Process

Your next steps depend on the type of bankruptcy you filed.

Chapter 7

Called liquidation bankruptcy
Most unsecured debts can be discharged
Case usually ends in a few months

Many essential items stay with you. Not everything is lost.

Chapter 13

Court-approved repayment plan
Plan lasts 3–5 years
Can catch up on missed mortgage or car payments

Each chapter has rules and deadlines. Knowing your chapter helps you plan and understand what comes next.

Step Six: Trustee Requests and Follow-Up

After the 341 meeting, the trustee may request extra information. This is normal.

They may ask for:

Recent pay stubs
Bank statements
Tax returns
Clarification of assets

Quick responses keep your case moving. Don’t ignore requests. This step is mostly administrative, not scary.

Step Seven: Discharge or Plan Confirmation

For Chapter 7, a discharge comes in a few months. This legally clears most debts.

For Chapter 13, the court confirms your repayment plan. Once confirmed:

Pay according to the plan
Creditors must follow the plan
Missing payments can risk case dismissal

Some debts, like student loans and certain taxes, remain. Knowing this avoids surprises.

Step Eight: Life After Bankruptcy Filing

After filing, your credit report updates. Scores may drop at first. Over time, responsible financial habits can rebuild it.

Tips after filing:

Make a realistic budget
Pay ongoing bills on time
Check credit reports for errors

Bankruptcy is a fresh start. It’s not the end. Many people feel relief once the process is over.

Conclusion

Filing bankruptcy can feel overwhelming, but understanding each step makes it easier. The process gives protection, stops creditors, and guides you toward financial recovery.

Working with a bankruptcy attorney in NE DC helps ensure everything goes smoothly. For clear guidance and personal support, consider contacting the Law Office of Erica R.S. Hunt, LLC for a consultation and help planning your next steps.

FAQs

Q – How long does a bankruptcy case take?
A – Chapter 7: 3–6 months. Chapter 13: 3–5 years.
Q – Will filing stop eviction?
A – It can delay eviction, but it depends on timing and local laws.
Q – Can all debts be erased?
A – No. Some debts like child support and recent taxes usually stay.
Q – Do I need to appear in court?
A – Usually, only the 341 meeting is required.
Q – Will bankruptcy hurt future loans?
A – Yes, at first. But responsible use of credit over time can rebuild it.