An Overview Of The Chapter 13 Meeting Of Creditors
Are you preparing to use Chapter 13 bankruptcy law stipulations to file for bankruptcy and not sure what to expect? One of the things that you'll have to do is attend the meeting of creditors at the beginning of the process. Here is what you need to know about this administrative hearing.
What Is The Purpose Of The Meeting Of Creditors
The main reason to have the meeting of creditors is for the bankruptcy trustee to ask you questions about the bankruptcy petition. There are a series of routine questions that are typically asked, and there should not really be any surprises about what you will be asked because of this. You may get some specific questions related to your bankruptcy filing, but it will be about things that you listed in the petition.
However, it is also an opportunity for creditors to show up and ask questions as well. It is not likely that this will happen, but it is possible.
Where Is The Meeting Of Creditors Held?
While it is common to have the meeting of creditors at your local courthouse, you may have a virtual meeting of creditors as well due to the current pandemic. What makes a virtual meeting different is that many aspects of the meeting are done in writing rather than verbally. However, you are subject to perjury laws if you falsify the answers to the questions, since all forms are submitted to the court prior to the meeting.
What Questions Are Asked By The Bankruptcy Trustee?
Some of the basic questions that will be asked will revolve around if you listed all of your assets and debts in the bankruptcy petition. You'll also be asked about claims and lawsuits that you may have pending, as well as existing child and spousal support obligations. Expect to be asked about your current employment situation, and to verify your income as well.
The trustee will want to know if you have repaid any debts to creditors within a specific period of time, and you need to be honest about whether you have. Even if you paid back a creditor before you filed for bankruptcy, that payment could be clawed back due to the proximity to the bankruptcy filing.
If you submitted written answers to the trustee's questions, you'll likely be asked about if you personally filled out the documents, and if what was written in the documents is truthful.