Bankruptcy: Chapter 7 How Long Does It Take

If you are considering filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Utah, one of the first questions you probably have is “how long does it take?” The answer, like many things in life (and certainly in the law), is that it depends. Every bankruptcy case is different and it also depends on the chapter you file. So lets look at the time frame in Chapter 7 Bankruptcy. You may hear stories of people having their debts discharged within a matter of months of filing, but the same may not be true in your case. For a Chapter 7, the typical case takes four to five months to complete, but it may take longer if you are missing some of the paperwork required, are required to turn over some tax documents or returns, if some of your property must be sold by the trustee, or if you become involved in a bankruptcy related lawsuit.

So here’s a brief Chapter 7 Bankruptcy timeline to give you an idea of the process involved in a typical case:

1. Initial consultation with an attorney (we offer same-day appointments).
2. Collect your paperwork, including taking the one-hour counseling course (clients typically take 2-7 days to compile all of the paperwork we need).
3. Have a signing appointment and get your case filed (signing appointment usually scheduled 2-3 days after we receive your paperwork).
4. Take the required financial management course after your case has been filed and receive a certificate of completion (takes 2 hours).
5. Attend a 341 Meeting of Creditors Hearing (scheduled 20-40 days after your case has been filed).
6. Have your bankruptcy is discharged (typically about 60 days after the 341 Hearing).

Of course these are general time guilds and can very greatly depending upon your circumstance but will give you an idea on how long does it take to do a Chapter 7 bankruptcy. When you work with an experienced Utah bankruptcy lawyer he or she can give you greater insight into your particular situation.

Of course as you may understand from reading this blog a Discharge is not the final result most people are looking for when they file for bankruptcy. Here at my office we focus on Life After Bankruptcy and helping you not only service the bankruptcy process but to thrive after bankruptcy. Call if you would like to personally sit down and discuss your situation.