Some General Information about Chapter 7
What is a Chapter 7 Trustee?
The Court appoints a trustee in every chapter 7 (liquidation) case to investigate the assets of the debtor, conduct the initial Meeting of Creditors, liquidate assets of the debtor, investigate claims and pay creditors according to the priority scheme of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code.
What is a Meeting of Creditors and why do I have to attend?
Section 341 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code requires that debtors attend and be examined at a Meeting of Creditors. The main purpose of the examination is to make sure that Debtors have accurately and completely filled out the schedules and statement of financial affairs that were filed with the court. As a practical matter, few creditors attend and the Chapter 7 Trustee appointed in your case examines you.
Where is the Meeting of Creditors Held and how do I get there?
The meeting of Creditors is held at a hearing room located at 1301 Clay St., Room 680 N, Oakland, CA. This address is the U.S. Federal Building located between 12th and 14th streets in downtown Oakland, across the street from the U.S. Bankruptcy court. The nearest BART stop is 12th Street City Center. Consult a map for general information on how to reach downtown Oakland.
In order to enter the Federal Building, you must have a current picture identification, either a driver’s license or a passport. For the Meeting of Creditors, you will also need evidence of your social security number, so bring your social security card to the Meeting
The “Notice of Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Case, Meeting of Creditors, & Deadlines” (“Notice”) you received after you filed your case informs you of the date, time and place of the Meeting of Creditors, and it also contains other very important information about your case. Study this document carefully and keep it for future use.