How to File Chapter 7 Bankruptcy

To start a chapter 7 bankruptcy case, a person needs to file a petition with the United States Bankruptcy Court. Usually the case is filed with the Bankruptcy Court in the district where the person lives. If a person lives in Palm Beach County, Florida it is usually filed with the Bankruptcy Court in Downtown West Palm Beac Miami and if a person lives in Broward County, Florida, the case is usually filed with the Bankruptcy Court in Ft. Lauderdale. The Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Florida includes Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach, and other nearby counties.

Besides the bankruptcy petition, the debtor must also file various schedules and statements. Schedule A is a list of a person's real estate, schedule B is a list of the personal property, schedule C lists one's exempt property, schedule D lists the secured debt, schedule E lists priority debt, schedule F lists unsecured debt, schedule G sets forth executory contracts and leases, schedule H lists co-debtors, and schedule I and J set forth income and expenses. A statement of financial affairs setting forth various information is also required.

In order to file for chapter 7, a person usually needs to file a certificate of credit counseling and evidence of payment from employers for the 60 days prior to filing.Jordan E. Bublick, Miami and Palm Beach, Florida, Attorney at Law, Practice Limited to Bankruptcy Law, Member of the Florida Bar since 1983