If you have more debt than you can pay back, then filing Chapter 7 bankruptcy may be an option for you. Chapter 7 bankruptcy basically gives you a fresh start by wiping out some or all of your debt. The majority of people will be able to keep all of their property.

The road to debt relief can be complex and confusing.  At Ciolek LTD., we understand that filing for bankruptcy successfully depends on getting the details right.  We will take care of all of the legal aspects of your case so that you can focus on a fresh financial start and move forward with your life.

Chapter 7 bankruptcy:  A Fresh Financial Start

1. The first step is scheduling a meeting with Toledo bankruptcy lawyer, Scott A. Ciolek.  He will evaluate your financial situation and determine what type of bankruptcy, if any, would be best for you.  In order to make the most of this appointment, please bring along with you; a list of your creditors, any court documents or official papers regarding wage garnishment, foreclosure, etc., any documents you have questions about, and know your income (approximately) for the past 6 months.  If you decide to file for bankruptcy, we will give you our client questionnaire to bring back with you to your next appointment. We will also provide you with information about the required credit counseling course.
   
2. During your second appointment, you will be required to pay the fee, return the questionnaire and any other information we may have requested. We will then go over the questionnaire with you and answer any questions you may have.
   
3. Next, the Law Office of Scott A. Ciolek will prepare your Chapter 7 Bankruptcy petition.  We will notify you when your Chapter 7 Bankruptcy petition is ready to be signed. The petition will then be electronically filed with the bankruptcy court.
4. After the petition is filed, what is known as the Meeting of Creditors will be set.  It is mandatory that you attend. The date is usually 20 to 40 days after the petition has been filed. At the Meeting of Creditors, there will be a Bankruptcy Trustee who will ask you various questions regarding your petition. Also, a representative of creditors may attend. This is usually a short meeting lasting less than 15 minutes.  You must bring a photo ID and proof of your social security number. Attorney Scott A. Ciolek will be there with you throughout the entire process.
5. To be eligible for the bankruptcy discharge, you must complete a personal financial management course offered by an approved agency. This step must occur within 45 days after the first meeting of creditors. We will provide you with more information on the approved agencies.
   
6. The final step in Chapter 7 Bankruptcy, is the granting of the debt discharge. Generally, the discharge will be obtained in approximately 6 months from the date the petition is filed.

Work during the day? We offer evening and weekend appointments.  Don't live in the immediate Toledo area and want to make as few trips as possible? We have a solution and we will work with you. Take the first step and contact Toledo bankruptcy lawyer Scott A. Ciolek to set up a free consultation at (419) 740-5935 today.

Source: Consumer Bankruptcy Law and Practice NCLC

The above information is generally how our process works, but please remember that each case is different.