Bankruptcy law is complex and difficult to understand. Attempting to navigate the various rules, laws, and legal framework, not to mention completing and filing the necessary schedules, paperwork, and documents, is a difficult task. For this reason, the first step in filing a bankruptcy is to consult an experienced and competent attorney.
When you initially meet with your attorney, it is important to remember to disclose all of your assets and liabilities. Speaking openly about financial difficulties is an arduous and often embarrassing task for anyone involved, but try to understand that your bankruptcy attorney is there to help resolve the situation and can only do so with full disclosure.
It is important to list all of your assets and liabilities because these two categories are the framework to a Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Determining the correct amount and type of assets allows that portion of the bankruptcy petition to be completed accurately and ensures that the right exemptions will be used to protect those assets. Correctly listing liabilities will ensure that creditors that should be included in the bankruptcy petition are included and served notice that their debt with you has been included in the bankruptcy.
You will also want to disclose all of your income. Your attorney, by looking at your income, property, and liabilities, can then determine the correct course of action and make certain that you qualify for a Chapter 7 bankruptcy. In addition to this, your attorney can determine if you have any debts that will not be discharged through the bankruptcy, like child support obligations.
Above all, being open and honest with your attorney about all of these things will make sure that your bankruptcy process, and thus your path to a fresh start, goes as smoothly and quickly as possible.