What Do Bankruptcy Judges Do?
If you’re considering filing bankruptcy in Memphis you may be a little worried about the Memphis bankruptcy court process. It can be intimidating to get involved with the legal system. And perhaps the most intimidating figure of all oversees the whole thing: the bankruptcy judge.
Fortunately, there’s nothing to be afraid of. So here’s what to expect in a Memphis bankruptcy court, including what the bankruptcy judge does, and what you can expect from your experience.
Memphis Bankruptcy Court: Myth vs. Reality
If you’ve learned about court from TV shows, you’d be shocked at how a typical bankruptcy court works.
You may imagine a dark, formal room. A large figure in a black robe looms over you and demands answers to why you got into debt in the first place.
In reality, bankruptcy court feels much less formal than that. The court still demands your respect, but bankruptcy is a civil matter. The courts handle dozens of cases every single day, and they want the process to go smoothly and successfully for everyone involved. So no one in the building is looking to harm or punish you.
As for the scary looking judge, in most cases you’ll work instead with a bankruptcy trustee. This is especially true if you’re filing Chapter 7.
The judge might play a bigger role in cases with objections or complications. As in any court, they are the deciders on how the law governs a certain case.
Role of Bankruptcy Judge in Chapter 13
In Chapter 13, your bankruptcy judge oversees the confirmation hearing. At this hearing, they review your plan to repay creditors to make sure it will all work according to your income and other factors.
In preparation for that hearing, your attorney, creditors, and bankruptcy trustee will have already reviewed the same information. So typically this process goes very smoothly. If anyone has questions or concerns, your attorney can help you address them or may speak on your behalf.
Remember, ultimately a bankruptcy judge has one main goal: to fulfill the purpose of bankruptcy as outlined by the Supreme Court in 1934. To give “a new opportunity in life and a clear field for future effort, unhampered by the pressure and discouragement of preexisting debt.”
They’re here to help you. And so are we.
How Our Lawyers Help You Through the Process
When you choose a Memphis bankruptcy attorney, you need someone who will give you their full time and attention. This really matters when it comes to your court appearance.
Our attorneys talk you through everything so you know what to expect. We understand this process can feel scary. That’s why we stay by your side, every step of the way.
As one client put it: “This process has gone quickly and smoothly, and you guys have made a difficult time easy. Thank you!”
And another client who was especially nervous said, “This was initially a very fearful process, but once I met with this firm my anxiety was eased.”
We make you our priority, and you’ll feel better about the process long before you ever go to court.
It all starts with a totally free consultation. To schedule yours, contact us online today or call us at 901-327-2100.