How To Start
It is very important that you talk to a qualified attorney before filing a bankruptcy. A paralegal or legal assistant
will not do. They do not have the knowledge, training, or experience to counsel you about the complexities of
Bankruptcy Law. You may communicate with me directly with any questions, or for an appointment at
johnsmithattormey@um.att.com or call 713-861-5699.
These are the steps you will need to begin the process:
1. The Law currently requires you to take a credit counseling course before filing the case as your “ticket in”
to bankruptcy. You may find a list of the approved agencies at the following link:
http://www.usdoj.gov/ust/eo/bapcpa/ccde/cc_approved.htmgov/ust/eo/bapcpa/ccde/cc_approved.htm
The counseling agency will send a certificate of completion directly to my office for filing with the Court.
We suggest waiting to take the course until after the other initial steps have been taken. Later, after your creditor’s meeting (approximately 30 days after filing) you will need to take a second course in personal financial management. http://www.usdoj.gov/ust This is your “ticket out” of bankruptcy. Without it, you are not eligible to receive your discharge.
2. Go to www.stopmybills.com to enter some basic information to begin the bankruptcy process. Enter the
password johnesmithlawoffice. This information can then be downloaded by me to have a basis for discussing your case with you and starting document preparation. Be aware that this is very preliminary information. I cannot file your case with this limited information. Much more information will be required as shown below. When you are entering this data for me to actually file a case, averages and guestimates will not do. We must have actual, correct, detailed answers. That is what the Bankruptcy Code requires.
3. Gather the following documents:
a. Copies of Income Tax Returns for the last four years.
b. Retail Installment Contracts for all secured items being financed. Secured Items would include vehicles,
mobile home, furniture, large appliances, satellite dish, homes, land, etc.
c. All loan contracts for loans that you pledged your household goods or other assets as collateral. Contract
must list items you put up as collateral.
d. If your home is up for foreclosure, please provide a copy of the foreclosure letter from either the mortgage
company or the mortgage company's attorney. If your vehicle is being repossessed, please provide the name
and telephone number of the person we need to contact. If you have an IRS levy, please provide a copy of the IRS levy that our office needs to have released.
e. Copies of last 6 months worth of paychecks and/or paystubs.
f. Copy of your social security card and drivers license.
g. Copy of proof of auto insurance.
h. Copies of payment coupons for all mortgages on home.
i. Copies of any lawsuits or Judgments.
4. Contact me for a FREE, initial consultation at either my Houston or Friendswood office.
Bankruptcy is not always the solution. But when it is ... Get it done right!
Call me for a Free Initial Consultation! Call and talk to John E. Smith personally 713-861-5699 or 281-996-9393.
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