Counseling and Education Requirements in a Florida Bankruptcy

In 2005, the bankruptcy laws were changed in the U.S. These changes added certain steps and qualifications for those seeking a personal bankruptcy such as a Chapter 7 which is the most common form of bankruptcy. For those filing for a Chapter 7 or a Chapter 13 bankruptcy, participation in a government-approved credit counseling course is now required prior to the filing. This credit counseling may be done in person, online, or over the phone. You must complete it and receive a certificate of completion within 180 days of filing your bankruptcy petition. You must include the certificate when you file your paperwork with the court. If you fail to do so, your case will be dismissed. The reason for the credit counseling is to help you determine whether you have any other viable options or alternatives to bankruptcy. You will be asked for information about your income and expenses so that your counselor can review your financial situation to see if a repayment of your debts is possible.

Once you file your Chapter 7 or 13 bankruptcy case with the court, you will be required to complete a debtor education course before your debts can be discharged by the court. In a Chapter 7 case, you must complete this course within 60 days of your meeting with creditors, called the 341 hearing. In a Chapter 13 case, you must complete the course before your last scheduled payment to the court. You must use a government-approved agency and file your certificate of completion with the court. If you fail to do so, your case may be closed without a discharge. The purpose of this course is to help you learn to properly manage your finances after your bankruptcy case has ended.

Miami Bankruptcy Firm

Filing for bankruptcy can be a complicated process; it is subject to many rules and regulations such as those mentioned above. Ensuring that your case is handled properly so as to avoid any complications, delays, or rejections is essential. You will not want to make any mistakes or omissions when it comes to all of the documentation and data involved. That is why it is recommended that you bring your potential bankruptcy case to an experienced attorney.

For those who reside in and around Miami, The Botros Law Firm offers competent and caring legal service in the field of bankruptcy and debt relief. The firm has more than a decade of experience in providing debt relief solutions to its clients. You can learn more about your options and make an educated decision about how to resolve your debt situation by discussing your financial scene in a free case analysis with a skilled attorney at the firm. You will never be treated like a number, just another case, or given a cookie-cutter solution. Contact the firm to schedule your consultation and get started in resolving your overwhelming debt today.