Chapter 7 bankruptcy, otherwise referred to as a liquidation proceeding, is the most common form of bankruptcy filed in the United States. While it may be possible to file for bankruptcy without the assistance of an attorney, it is not recommended due to the complicated legal forms you must complete to file for bankruptcy. Failure to complete the bankruptcy forms correctly may result in the dismissal of your case and may prevent you from filing for bankruptcy in the future.
For example, before you file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you must determine whether you qualify. Eligibility for Chapter 7 bankruptcy is determined by completing the means test, which analyzes the amount of disposable income you have remaining each month after you pay all necessary expenses. If your median income is less than the average for the state of Utah, you may qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy.

Next, you will need to file an official petition for bankruptcy with your local bankruptcy court. The forms ask you to list a variety of information including all of your assets, your creditors and your monthly expenses. You will also be required to pay a filing fee when you file the bankruptcy petition. About 45 days after you file for bankruptcy you will attend a 341 meeting, referred to as the creditors meeting. During this meeting you will appear before the CHapter 7 bankruptcy trustee and answer questions regarding your financial status and the information contained in your bankruptcy petition. Your creditors may also attend the hearing and can ask you questions as well. This meeting is informal in nature. If you hire an attorney to assist you with your bankruptcy, your attorney will attend this hearing with you.

Again, filing for bankruptcy is very complicated, and it is best to hire an attorney to assist you with your case.