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The bankruptcy estate includes all of the debtor’s property, including real estate, personal property, and financial assets such as stocks, bonds, and bank accounts. It also includes any potential causes of action the debtor may have against other individuals or companies.

“What is a Bankruptcy Estate?”

 

When someone files for bankruptcy, all of their assets become part of a bankruptcy estate. The bankruptcy estate is a legal entity that is created for the purpose of liquidating the assets of the debtor (the person who filed for bankruptcy) in order to repay their creditors.

The bankruptcy estate includes all of the debtor’s property, including real estate, personal property, and financial assets such as stocks, bonds, and bank accounts. It also includes any potential causes of action the debtor may have against other individuals or companies.

The bankruptcy estate is managed by a trustee, who is appointed by the bankruptcy court. The Chapter  7 Trustee’s job is to collect, manage, and liquidate the assets of the estate in order to repay the creditors as much as possible.

One of the main benefits of the bankruptcy estate is that it provides a mechanism for debtors to reorganize their finances and get a fresh start. The bankruptcy court can discharge certain types of debts, allowing the debtor to walk away from their obligations and start anew.

Another benefit of the bankruptcy estate is that it provides a level of protection to creditors. The bankruptcy court ensures that the assets of the estate are distributed fairly and equitably among the creditors, according to the priorities set forth in the Bankruptcy Code.

 

What is a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Trustee?

 

A Chapter 7 bankruptcy trustee is a person appointed by the United States Trustee (a division of the Department of Justice) to oversee the administration of Chapter 7 bankruptcy cases. In a Chapter 7 bankruptcy, the trustee’s primary responsibility is to liquidate the assets of the debtor’s bankruptcy estate and distribute the proceeds to the creditors.

The Chapter 7 trustee performs several important tasks, including reviewing the debtor’s petition and schedules, examining the debtor under oath, reviewing the debtor’s financial records, selling the debtor’s non-exempt assets, and making a determination of the allowable exemptions. The trustee is also responsible for objecting to any claims by creditors that may be improper or not supported by sufficient evidence.

The Chapter 7 trustee serves as a neutral party in the bankruptcy process, ensuring that the debtor’s assets are distributed fairly and equitably among the creditors. The trustee also plays a critical role in protecting the rights of the creditors and preventing any fraud or abuse in the bankruptcy process.

 

How can a Chapter 7 help me?

 

Chapter 7 bankruptcy can provide relief and a fresh start for individuals who are struggling with debt. Here are some ways Chapter 7 can help you:

  1. Debt discharge: Chapter 7 results in a Court Ordered Discharge which will discharge most unsecured debts, such as credit card debt, medical bills, and personal loans. This means that you are no longer responsible for paying these debts, and creditors can no longer attempt to collect them.
  2. Stop wage garnishments and collection actions: Once you file for Chapter 7, an automatic stay goes into effect. This stay stops wage garnishments, collection actions, foreclosures, and repossessions, giving you some breathing room to get your finances back in order.
  3. Keep exempt property: Chapter 7 allows you to keep certain property that is protected under the bankruptcy exemptions. This may include your home, personal property, and retirement accounts.
  4. Fresh start: By discharging your debts and stopping collection actions, Chapter 7 can provide you with a fresh start. You can move forward with a clean slate, free from the burden of overwhelming debt.

It’s important to note that not everyone is eligible for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, and there are some types of debt that cannot be discharged. Additionally, if you have non-exempt assets that the trustee can sell to repay your creditors, you may lose some property in a Chapter 7 bankruptcy. An experienced bankruptcy attorney can help you determine if Chapter 7 is right for you and guide you through the process.

 

How can a chapter 13 bankruptcy help me?

 

Chapter 13 bankruptcy can provide several benefits to individuals who are struggling with debt. Here are some ways Chapter 13 can help you:

  1. Keep your home: If you are behind on mortgage payments, Chapter 13 can allow you to catch up on missed payments over the course of the three- to five-year repayment plan. This can help you avoid foreclosure and keep your home.
  2. Protect your assets: Chapter 13 allows you to keep your assets, including your home, car, and personal property, as long as you stick to the terms of the repayment plan.
  3. Reduce debt: Chapter 13 allows you to repay a portion of your debts over the course of the repayment plan, potentially reducing the total amount you owe.
  4. Stop wage garnishments and collection actions: An automatic stay goes into effect once you file for Chapter 13, which stops wage garnishments, collection actions, foreclosures, and repossessions. This gives you some breathing room to get your finances back in order.
  5. Consolidate debts: Chapter 13 allows you to consolidate your debts into one manageable monthly payment, making it easier to keep track of your debts and stay current on payments.

It’s important to note that Chapter 13 is not for everyone. To be eligible for Chapter 13, you must have a regular income and your debt levels must fall within certain limits. An experienced bankruptcy attorney can help you determine if Chapter 13 is right for you and guide you through the process.

 

Which bankruptcy chapter should I file chapter 7 or 13?

 

The choice between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy depends on several factors, including your income, assets, and debt level. Here is a brief overview of each type of bankruptcy to help you make an informed decision:

Chapter 7: Also known as a “liquidation” bankruptcy, Chapter 7 allows you to discharge most unsecured debts, such as credit card debt, medical bills, and personal loans. To be eligible for Chapter 7, you must pass a means test, which compares your income to the state median income. If your income is above the median, you may still be eligible for Chapter 7 if you have limited assets and high debt levels. Chapter 7 is typically a quicker process than Chapter 13, but it may result in the loss of some non-exempt assets.

Chapter 13: Also known as a “reorganization” bankruptcy, Chapter 13 allows you to keep your assets and repay your debts over a three- to five-year period. To be eligible for Chapter 13, you must have a regular income and your debt levels must fall within certain limits. Chapter 13 is ideal for individuals who are behind on mortgage payments, have non-exempt assets they want to keep, or have debt levels that exceed the limits for Chapter 7.

It is important to consult with a bankruptcy attorney to determine which type of bankruptcy is best for your situation. The attorney can review your income, assets, and debts and help you make an informed decision.

Attorney Walter Metzen is a Board Certified Bankruptcy Expert who has successfully represented Metro Detroit Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 clients for over 30 years.

If you are considering filing for bankruptcy in Detroit or elsewhere in Michigan, contact us now to schedule your free consultation.

 

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