Making the decision to file for bankruptcy isn't one that should be taken lightly. The process involved with filing bankruptcy isn't exactly a walk in the park. There are certain things that you have to do to make sure your case goes through as smoothly as possible. Otherwise, you could end up having your case delayed or possibly thrown out. To make sure your bankruptcy case is handled in the best way possible, consider the following information.

All of your bills should be gathered beforehand.

The main thing you need to do is gather all of your bills before filing for bankruptcy. You don't want to end up filing for bankruptcy only to find out that you forgot to put a bunch of your bills in the case. Not putting them in the case will cause them to be omitted from the proceeding. You will end up having to pay more money to get your lawyer to add them to the case to make sure they are discharged.

You need to determine what you are going to keep and what you aren't.

If you currently have auto loans, furniture loans, a mortgage, or any other installment loan, you have to determine what you are going to keep and what you are going to let go. This way you can take the appropriate steps to handle the situation beforehand and make arrangements to return items or sign reaffirmation papers. The reaffirmation papers are saying that you are going to continue paying the debt in exchange for keeping the property.

Availability for the 341 hearing.

You have to attend a 341 hearing before your debts are discharged. If you don't go to the hearing, your case will be postponed. Above all else, you need to make sure you are available for the hearing. Reschedule your work schedule. Do what you have to do, but don't miss out on this important hearing. You will often know well enough in advance to plan ahead.

By planning ahead and taking the above into account, you can prevent any delays in your case. The whole goal of bankruptcy is to get your debts discharged and allow you to have the fresh start you need to regain control of your finances. If you ever have any questions about your case or the process involved, take a minute and speak with an attorney like Michael D Doyle Attorney at Law to ensure you have a solid understanding of what's going on.