What You Can Expect: A Typical Case

A Typical Bankruptcy Case

When you decide that you are ready to file bankruptcy or have questions about whether bankruptcy is right for you, here is what you can generally expect from our office:

1. The case begins with the client calling the Firm for the first time. An appointment is usually set at this time. Initial questions are answered by the staff members. Staff Members are not attorneys and cannot answer legal questions. Initial questions usually include pricing and payment plans.
2. A client will usually come to the office in Peoria for a consultation. If you would like to get started without waiting please fill out the Questionnaire and email it to the office. Someone will contact you by email or phone within 24 hours not including weekends or holidays.
3. If the client chooses to retain our office, the initial down payment must be received in the office prior to our starting on any paperwork. After receiving the down payment we will begin collecting documents required for the court. We also start on all documents you are required to file with the court.
4. The client will complete the first course required to file (Credit Counseling) and will also contact the office to ensure that we received the certificate. (We have a preferred provider you may use. The price of credit counseling and debt education are included in the price quoted for your bankruptcy. Unlike other firms you are not required to find your own counseling service.)
5. The Office files cases every Tuesday and Thursday. Your case will be filed if you have paid all of the fees required, provided all of the required documents, and completed the credit counseling. All cases are filed electronically from our office. We file cases anytime within a 24 hour period.
6. After the case is filed the attorney will call and send a letter requesting any further documents needed. This call and letter will also provide information concerning the second class (Debtor Education or Financial Management) and the court date and time.  (Again, we have a preferred provider you may use. The price of credit counseling and debt education are included in the price quoted for your bankruptcy. Unlike other firms you are not required to find your own counseling service.)
7. The client completes the second course before the court hearing.
8. The client and attorney attend court on the court date. It is rare for creditors to attend this meeting but they are invited to attend. At the court date the trustee will ask you questions concerning the information provided to him or her to ensure that you have told the truth and included all your assets. He or she is also required to verify your identity. Please remember to bring your social security card and picture identification to this court date.
9. After this hearing you may receive a call or letter from our office concerning a reaffirmation agreement. This document is explained in another section.
10. Some cases may be chosen for audit. Due to this our office may require that you send more documents. Please comply as quickly as possible. Any delay may lengthen the time required to receive your discharge.
11. After your hearing you should receive a single sheet of paper in the mail. This is your discharge notice. The discharge is the court order stating your bankruptcy was allowed. Please remember that some debts cannot be discharged such as: student loans, some taxes, child support and criminal fines and costs.

Bankruptcy Relief and Assistance is a Phone Call Away

Contact the Law Offices of Eric James Homa, PC today to get started on the path to reclaiming your finances. We have four convenient locations throughout Central Illinois and can be reached online or by phone at 309-673-5297.

We are a debt relief agency. We help people file for bankruptcy relief under the Bankruptcy Code.