Whether you file Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you must attend a 341 meeting of creditors. During a meeting of creditors, you will sit in a room with your trustee, your attorney, and any creditors who wish to attend.
The meeting of creditors can be intimidating, but you do not have to handle this situation alone. Contact a bankruptcy attorney at Kademenos, Wisehart, Hines, Dolyk & Wright Co. LPA today at (419) 625-7770 for a free case evaluation to discover how we can help you through this challenging time in your life.
When Does the Meeting of Creditors Take Place?
A meeting of creditors takes place within 21 to 40 days after you file bankruptcy. After you submit your official bankruptcy petition, your bankruptcy trustee will schedule the meeting, and you will be notified.
Who Attends the Meeting of Creditors?
The meeting of creditors is not a formal hearing in front of a judge. You are required to attend. Typically, your bankruptcy trustee, your attorney, and any creditors who wish to attend may be present. Your Ohio bankruptcy attorney will likely know about these situations before the meeting of creditors.
How Long Is the Meeting of Creditors?
The actual meeting of creditors is very brief. Since few creditors appear, it is rare that information is disputed. Instead, your trustee will likely take 15 to 20 minutes to review the information you submitted in your bankruptcy. You and your attorney can answer questions and move on quickly.
Where is the Meeting of Creditors?
The meeting of creditors does not occur at the federal courthouse. Rather, you will likely meet with your trustee and attorney in a formal meeting room. You may also meet at an attorney’s office.
Preparing for a Meeting of Creditors
Each meeting of creditors is somewhat different. However, they all follow a particular process. Your attorney can prepare you for the meeting by reviewing the information you submitted in your bankruptcy petition. You should ensure all information is correct and up to date.
Additionally, you should gather the following items and bring them with you to the meeting of creditors:
- Photo ID issued by the government
- Document verifying your Social Security number
- Copies of income records
- Tax statements
- Vehicle titles
- Mortgage or rental contracts
- Copies of all your bankruptcy documents
By working with a skilled Ohio bankruptcy attorney from Kademenos, Wisehart, Hines, Dolyk & Wright Co. LPA, you can be thoroughly prepared for a meeting of creditors. Our legal team can gather the necessary documents and help you prepare answers to difficult questions.
What Happens If You Miss Your Meeting?
If you aren’t able to attend your meeting of creditors, the court may dismiss your bankruptcy case. The meeting of creditors is a necessary step in the bankruptcy process. However, there are a few valid reasons to miss a meeting, including:
- Medical emergency
- Family emergency
- Natural disaster
- Incarceration
- Active military service
Call an Ohio Bankruptcy Attorney to Help You Today
The meeting of creditors can be incredibly intimidating because it is one of the only hearings that you must attend in person. However, with the help of a knowledgeable bankruptcy attorney from Kademenos, Wisehart, Hines, Dolyk & Wright Co. LPA, you can navigate the process with less anxiety. Call us today at (419) 625-7770 for a free consultation to receive help with a meeting of creditors or any other bankruptcy-related items.