General Timeline for Chapter 7

“How long will my case take?” is a common question from clients who are filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy and understandably unfamiliar with the process. Here’s a basic summary of the average timeline for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in the Northern District of Illinois, which is around four to five months:– Date of filing – When you file, the “automatic stay” officially begins, which means all debt-collection efforts against you will be temporarily prohibited, and you may also be able to temporarily prevent wage garnishment and even recover some of your lost earnings. A trustee will be assigned to your case, and the date and time for your “341 Meeting of Creditors” will be provided to your attorney. You’ll receive an official Notice from the court within a few weeks.– Within 15 days of filing – The bankruptcy court will send the “Notice of Commencement of Case” to your creditors, who must cease efforts to collect debt from you. If any collection attempts occur between your filing and a creditor receiving this notice, inform the creditor of your filing and provide your case number and attorney’s contact information.– Four to eight weeks after filing – Your “341 Meeting of Creditors” will take place.– Sixty (60) days after the meeting – Within sixty days of your Meeting of Creditors, your creditors may file any objections to particular discharges of debt, if applicable, and the trustee will ensure that no abuse of the bankruptcy code has taken place.– Discharge – If there are no legal objections and you have completed all necessary steps of the Chapter 7 process, some or all of your debts will be successfully discharged and your case will then be closed.If you are struggling financially and considering filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you’re not alone. Contact an experienced bankruptcy attorney today for a free consultation.