Preparation is the key for success when filing bankruptcy in Florida. The best bankruptcy cases go unnoticed as debtors glide through the system without attracting attention to receive a full discharges in record time. Luck is not involved. Planning began months before filing.
The most successful filers know something that you don’t. Small lifestyle changes may alter means test income and expenses before filing. Well-planned strategic changes will have a dramatic effect on the results of the means test. With a few weeks or months to plan, creating $300 improvement on the bankruptcy means test calculation will save $18,000 in wasted Chapter 13 payments. Just as easily, many people avoid Chapter 13 altogether and may file Chapter 7 when understanding the test procedure. Timing is critical.
2010 Bankruptcy Strategies and the Means Test Explained
A federal presumption favors debtors and discharge. In uncontested cases, the discharge is automatic. In contested cases in which objections or adversary proceedings are filed, the debtor retains the favorable presumption. Discharge is withheld only upon a court finding, supported by credible evidence, that the debtor is not entitled to receive relief. The Federal Rules of Bankruptcy Procedure require that bankruptcy clerks mail a copy of discharge orders to creditors, trustees, and trustee's attorneys. The debtor and their attorney, if any, also receive copies.
Notice of discharge is rather generic. The order mailed to interested parties does not identify the specific debts that are eliminated or debts found to be nondischargeable. To prove a specific debt was discharged, a debtor must have both the discharge order and associated schedules, bearing a court file stamp, to identify the debt. If, for any reason, a debtor fails to receive a copy of the order granting relief, the discharge nevertheless remains effective.
Be aware the application of law to each individual is unique. Depending upon personal assets, liabilities, and financial history, all benefits may not be available. The most successful debtors retain Florida bankruptcy lawyers and plan well in advance. Through planning, with the assistance of qualified Florida bankruptcy lawyer, optimal timing, selective payments, and exemptions are most likely to be achieved without question.
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