Here’s how attorney Bisio hands the bankruptcy process for clients in Massachusetts:

1.  Free Initial Consultation: Meet with me to discuss your case. I will review your financial circumstances and advise you about your best options. For example, depending on your situation, it might be better to file either Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy. I will explain the pros and cons of the options and discuss our fees and court costs.

2. Complete the Bankruptcy Questionnaire: You will need to complete a questionnaire that lists all your debts and assets. In addition, bring your credit report and billing statements to the appointment so he can prepare your bankruptcy petition. My office can give you a complete list of all the documents needed to begin the bankruptcy filing. You can complete the questionnaire at home or in the office with attorney Bisio’s help.

3. Obtain Credit Counseling: You must complete a credit counseling course before filing the bankruptcy petition. Attorney Bisio will give you a list of court-approved courses. When you have completed the class (online, in person or by telephone), you will need to obtain a certificate to include with your bankruptcy petition.

4. File the Bankruptcy Petition: I will prepare and file the petition on your behalf and send you a copy. I will also send you the date for the Meeting of Creditors and provide details about how that meeting works. Filing the petition means that the automatic stay kicks in, preventing creditors from contacting you in any way about your debts.

5. Complete a Personal Financial Management Course: Before your case can be completed, you will need to complete a class on personal financial management. I will give you a list of court-approved courses to choose from. You will need to have a certificate of completion for your lawyer to give the bankruptcy trustee.

6. Attend the Meeting of Creditors: The U.S. Bankruptcy Court sends you a notice advising you of the date, time, and location for your Meeting of Creditors (also known as a 341 hearing). Attorney Bisio, you, and the bankruptcy trustee assigned to your case will be present. Almost all of these meetings now take place virtually via the cell phone of computer. The court will notify your creditors about the meeting, but they rarely attend. The trustee will evaluate your petition, verify your financial information, and make sure that you have included all the required facts. The meeting for Rhode Island residents takes place in Providence. Meetings in Massachusetts depend on where the petitioner lives. Attorney Bisio recommends you dress in business casual attire for the meeting.

7. Your Debt is Discharged or Your Payment Plan Approved: Usually your petition is approved at the meeting of creditors and no further meetings or appearances are required.