subject: 3 Steps To Filing For Bankruptcy [print this page] When filing for bankruptcy you must make a decision on which chapter to apply for. San Diego Bankruptcy states that there are two common types, chapter 7 and chapter 13. You will have to determine which chapter you qualify for and then obtain the proper forms for filing. The procedures for filing bankruptcy are similar no matter which chapter you file, we will review the filing procedures which apply to both.
1. Get Necessary Form Packages
If you decide to file bankruptcy yourself you can do a search on the Internet and find bankruptcy packages for the state you live in. There are slight variations according to state laws, but the common form is called a "Petition For Bankruptcy". Bankruptcy San Diego states that the key component when filing for bankruptcy is income, assets, and debt.
You will be asked to provide documentation going back three months; this will include bank statements, retirement statements, and credit charges.
2. Be Accurate
San Diego Bankruptcy Lawyerhave stated that one mistake people make when filing for bankruptcy is leaving out information. Bankruptcy itself is an emotionally draining experience. Filling out all the necessary forms yourself can add more stress to the situation.
There is a cost for filing bankruptcy. The process generally runs between two hundred and four hundred dollars to file.
The problem most people who file themselves run into is amendments. You can amend your bankruptcy petition, but there are two things that have happen. First, you have to pay additional fees for the amendment. And second, your bankruptcy proceedings will be delayed.
For these reasons you will want to double check all forms before you do the initial filing and verify that everything is in order with a San Diego Bankruptcy Lawyer.
3. File in Your County
You want to make sure you file your bankruptcy petition in the county you live in. You will be surprised at how many times people misfile and end up having to refile because they went to the wrong county recorder office. Again, this can end up in more court fees and a delay in processing your bankruptcy petition.
Once everything is in order you can expect the process to take between three to six months to complete. This will all depend on which chapter your file and the case load in the district you live in.
