Will my creditors stop calling me?

Yes. Our office will deal with your creditors. By law, actions against you cease when bankruptcy is filed. This includes garnishees, judgements and other legal actions. This does not apply to secured creditors such as banks holding, for example, a lien on a car.

How long will I be in bankruptcy?

The bankruptcy process is normally 9 months long for a first time bankrupt. When the bankruptcy is over, your debts are discharged by law (you no longer have to pay back your debts). There are some exceptions to the rule, our bankrupcy trustees will explain these to you when we meet.

If you have been bankrupt before, or you do not perform your duties in the bankruptcy or if someone opposes your discharge, then instead of your discharge being given automatically at the end of nine months, the bankruptcy court will decide what type of discharge you will receive.

Who can file for bankruptcy?

In order to declare bankruptcy an individual must:

• owe at least $1,000
• be unable to pay their bills as they generally become due
• be insolvent