| Introduction to Chapter 13 Bankruptcy |
| The Bankruptcy Code is divided into "Chapters" that set forth the laws that apply to different types of debtors, as well as creditors. Chapter 13 of the Bankruptcy Code applies to individuals or consumers, rather than businesses or companies. More... |
| Joint and Consolidated Cases |
| A husband and wife can file a joint case under Chapter 7, 11, 12 or 13. Both names are on the same petition and schedules, and only one filing fee is due. Only spouses are allowed to file a joint petition. Former spouses, partners or other relatives do not qualify for a joint petition. Whether a husband and a wife should file a bankruptcy together depends on whether both are liable on the debts involved. Filing bankruptcy generally only protects the person who filed the bankruptcy. Married couples who are jointly liable on most debts should file a joint bankruptcy. More... |
| Contested Matters |
| Whenever there is an actual dispute, other than an adversary proceeding, before the bankruptcy court, the litigation to resolve that dispute is a contested matter. For example, the filing of an objection to a proof of claim, to a claim of exemption, or to a disclosure statement creates a dispute that is a contested matter. Even when an objection is not formally required, there may be a dispute. If a party in interest opposes the amount of compensation sought by a professional, there is a dispute that is a contested matter.More... |
| Equity Security Holders |
| An equity security holder is a holder of an equity security of the debtor in a bankruptcy case. Examples of an equity security are a share in a corporation; an interest of a limited partner in a limited partnership; or a right to purchase, sell, or subscribe to a share, security, or interest of a share in a corporation or an interest in a limited partnership. More... |
| Bankruptcy Crimes |
| Bankruptcy crimes exist to protect the goals of civil bankruptcy, which is a fresh start for consumers, the reorganization of businesses, and the equitable distribution of a debtor's assets amongst creditors. Almost every bankruptcy crime is preceded by a prior civil bankruptcy case. Consequently, courts have had to organize the coordination of several cases arising out of one bankruptcy. More... |

