To learn more about what happens after you file bankruptcy in Oregon, read this step-by-step guide. Also, we always recommend that you hire an attorney to represent you throughout the bankruptcy process. The bankruptcy code has many specific requirements and nuances beyond what is listed here, so it’s best to have an attorney help you understand.
How Do You Prep for Bankruptcy in Oregon?
You’re required to attend a credit counseling course before you even file for bankruptcy with the court. You need to use an approved course provider, which you can find by searching for Washington or Oregon on this Department of Justice webpage (scroll down to “Approved Agencies”). Make sure you save the certificate showing that you completed the course.
In addition, you should gather financial information to help with the filing. You need documents showing your income and debts, such as pay stubs, medical bills, credit card statements, and loan documents. You also need a list of items you own, such as a car, house, boat, money in a savings account, or jewelry.
Speak to your attorney about preparing the court filing and paying the fee that officially starts your bankruptcy case. The filing requires information about your income and debts, and you have to submit the credit counseling completion certificate.
What’s the First Thing that Happens After You Officially File for Bankruptcy?
Almost immediately after you file for bankruptcy, the court will apply an “automatic stay” on most debt collections. The stay tells creditors to stop their collection efforts. Creditors can’t call you about debts, sue you, repossess property, or garnish your wages while the stay is in effect. If you are still receiving communications from creditors, let your lawyer know right away so they can help you stop them. The automatic stay does not halt eviction orders, child support, or student loan collections, but most other collection efforts should halt. This gives you breathing room while you and the court sort out your debts.
What’s a Creditors Meeting?
A few weeks after you file for bankruptcy, you need to attend a Meeting of the Creditors. You, your lawyer, and the bankruptcy trustee (an appointed overseer for your case) will meet with any representatives of your creditors who decide to attend. Often, creditors do not attend the meeting, but if they do, they can ask you questions about your debts, income, and finances. Your lawyer can provide you with more information about this meeting before it takes place.
After the Creditors Meeting, What’s Next?
Another requirement for your bankruptcy filing is a debtor education course. You need to complete this course soon after the Meeting of the Creditors. Find an approved course provider by searching for Washington or Oregon on this Department of Justice webpage (scroll down to “Approved Debtor Education Providers”).
Depending on whether you filed for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13, your case will proceed a bit differently after this point. Chapter 13 filers will get started on their repayment plans, while Chapter 7 filers may receive debt discharges in a few months. Give our firm a call to learn whether Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 is best for your situation.
FAQs About Bankruptcy in Oregon
How long do the credit counseling and debtor education courses take?
Generally, most people can complete the courses in about 2 hours each. The debtor education course has to be at least two hours long.
Where can I go to learn more about the bankruptcy process, step-by-step?
Our law firm’s website has many resources for people interested in filing for bankruptcy, including pages on Bankruptcy 101, Bankruptcy Myths, Bankruptcy Violations, and other informational topics. If you’d like to learn more or get started with your filing, please contact us for a free confidential consultation.
Learn About Your Options from Our Team
If you can’t get out from under mounting debt, reach out to the Law Offices of Alexzander C.J. Adams, P.C. Our confidential consultations give Oregon debtors peace of mind knowing that they are taking concrete actions to reduce or discharge debt. Speak to a bankruptcy attorney at the Law Offices of Alexzander C.J. Adams, P.C. by calling us at 503-278-5400 or completing our online contact form. We look forward to hearing from you!
