The only hearing most clients will attend is the 341 hearing, also known as the Meeting of Creditors. This hearing is about 5-10 minutes long and the trustee will ask you questions about your case. Typically these questions are geared towards making sure you told the truth in your filing, marking sure the information you provided is accurate, and gathering the necessary information to administer your case. You may also be asked about transactions, income, assets, expenses, and debts. An attorney will be with you during this hearing and will tell you what to expect before the hearing is held. Most 341 hearings are similar in the questions asked, so you can prepare to some extent.
There are other hearings that happen in bankruptcy, which typically, the client does not attend. One example is the confirmation hearing in a chapter 13 case. The confirmation hearing is where the Judge will order and confirm your bankruptcy plan. Usually, appearances are not necessary for this hearing and the Judge will confirm the plan by default. Other hearings that you may not need to attend are, Motions for Relief or Motions to Dismiss, if you are not contesting the matters heard, there is no reason to attend.
Besides the 341 hearing there are not too many other hearings that clients attend in bankruptcy. If you have a hearing coming up and are wondering whether you should attend, please reach out to your attorney for guidance. They can provide you with the hearing information that you need to know. Visit www.lifebacklaw.com to speak with an attorney today. You will be glad you did!