One of the most critical components of bankruptcy law is the “automatic stay,” which is written into law at 11 U.S.C. § 362, and applicable to all bankruptcy cases under Title 11. It is considered “automatic” because it immediately takes effect upon filing of a bankruptcy petition (unless you have filed multiple frequent cases).

Whether you file for a chapter 7 or chapter 13 bankruptcy, you will be protected from most collection efforts from most types of creditors. This protection begins on the very day you file your case until the day your case is closed, which typically occurs shortly after the court enters the Order discharging your debts. This court protection from creditors is known as the “automatic stay” and is provided by Section 362 of the Federal Bankruptcy Code.

Have you heard the phrase “bankruptcy protection” and wondered how a bankruptcy could protect you? Most potential bankruptcy clients usually have a sense of what filing a bankruptcy means, but are often unsure of how the process actually works.

One common question that potential clients have is "How does filing a bankruptcy protect me?" The short answer is that through something called the Automatic Stay, most creditors are prevented from continuing the collection activity during bankruptcy, and many debts may even be dismissed.