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In the past, there has been a social stigma attached to bankruptcy. People who filed were worried about it becoming public knowledge, and worried what that knowledge might do to their social standing or reputation. Now, with millions of Americans filing for bankruptcy each year, the negative connotation has nearly been removed. People are seeing the Bankruptcy Code for how it was intended — a safety net that allows individuals to get out from under crushing debt and start a new financial life.
At the Illinois offices of Ledford & Wu, we still hear questions from our clients who are concerned about the process of bankruptcy. Often, these individuals are concerned about having to take time off from their busy schedule and appear in court during a bankruptcy filing.
Will I have to go to court?
No. You will not.
In short, the reason many people hire an experienced lawyer rather than attempting to file bankruptcy on their own is to ensure that the process is completed correctly. This includes your lawyer appearing in court on your behalf. In a Chapter 7 filing, you will be required to appear at a meeting with your creditors. This is an informal meeting that commonly lasts less than 45 minutes. Your attorney will accompany you to this meeting, adding expertise and moral support to the proceedings.
In a Chapter 13 filing there are several scheduled court appearances. This is because a Chapter 13 bankruptcy is more complex. Even in these situations, your lawyer will make the appearances for you. It is very rare that a client of ours will have to make a court appearance in person. Do not hesitate to contact our firm with more questions, or for a detailed discussion of how bankruptcy can help you.
Contact Any of Our Chicago Offices
If you have questions about the bankruptcy process, call 888-542-1900 or contact our offices by e-mail to discuss your options during a free consultation with an attorney.
We are a debt relief agency. We help people file for bankruptcy relief under the Bankruptcy Code.
