What to Expect After Hiring a Bankruptcy Attorney
- McMann, P.A.
- Apr 18
- 2 min read
Once you decide to move forward, your attorney will guide you through every step of the process
Initial Filing
Your attorney will prepare and file a voluntary petition for bankruptcy with the appropriate U.S. Bankruptcy Court. For residents in Central Florida—including Polk, Hillsborough, Orange, and surrounding counties—your case will typically be filed in the Middle District of Florida, with hearings held in Tampa or Orlando, depending on your county.
Required Documents
You will be required to submit:
Schedules of assets and liabilities
Statement of financial affairs
Monthly income and expenses
Credit counseling certificate (completed within 180 days before filing)
The 341 Meeting (Meeting of Creditors)
Within 20–40 days of filing, you must attend the 341 meeting, a brief court-supervised hearing where a trustee (not a judge) asks questions about your financial documents. Creditors may appear but rarely do. This is usually the only hearing most filers must attend.
Duration
Chapter 7 cases typically last 3–5 months from filing to discharge.
Chapter 13 plans last 3–5 years, depending on your income and repayment schedule.
Will You Go to Mediation or Court?
Mediation is not typical in consumer bankruptcy cases.
You may only return to court if issues arise (e.g., objections from creditors or disputes over property).
Your Responsibilities
Complete financial management education before discharge.
Stay current on any post-petition obligations (e.g., mortgage payments in Chapter 13).
Respond promptly to requests for documents or court notices.
What to Expect After Hiring a Bankruptcy Attorney
Your attorney will handle all filings, deadlines, and correspondence with the court and trustee. Your job is to stay informed, provide accurate information, and follow through with your repayment plan or trustee requests.
McMann, P.A. Can Help You Start Fresh
Whether you're a small business owner burdened with commercial debt, a young professional facing student loans and credit card bills, or a single parent trying to stay afloat, we can help you explore legal debt relief solutions tailored to your needs.
Mark D. McMann
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