I wanted to share my full Chapter 7 experience in Los Angeles County, start to finish. Posts here helped me calibrate expectations, so hopefully this helps someone else who’s earlier in the process.
Background
- Filed Chapter 7 in LA County
- ~$72,000 in unsecured debt (credit cards, personal loans, medical)
- Married, single household income
- No real estate
- Never missed a minimum payment prior to deciding to file
- Keeping my car and continuing payments as normal
- Represented by an attorney based in Burbank, with an affiliate office in Torrance
Why I Filed
This wasn’t about irresponsibility or missed payments. It was about sustainability. Even while staying current, the debt load had reached a point where progress was mathematically impossible. Continuing would’ve meant years of treading water with zero margin for error.
At some point, realism beats pride.
Attorney & Filing Mechanics
My attorney required monthly installment payments before filing, which is standard in many cases. Once the legal fees were satisfied, the case was filed promptly and cleanly.
This is worth noting for anyone budgeting the process: filing is not always same-day, and that’s normal.
Pre-Filing Phase (The Most Stressful Part)
- Compiled bank statements, paystubs, tax returns, creditor statements
- Shut off autopay on dischargeable debts before filing
- Completed the required credit counseling course (quick and procedural)
This phase is mentally exhausting, mostly because of uncertainty—not because anything bad is happening.
After Filing
Immediate effects:
- Automatic stay went into effect
- Calls stopped
- Letters stopped
- Background financial stress dropped sharply
It’s quiet. Almost suspiciously quiet.
The 341 Meeting (Yesterday)
- Held via Zoom
- Several other filers were in the waiting room
- When my attorney appeared, he was well-dressed, composed, and clearly experienced
- I was also dressed professionally (long-sleeve button-up), documents organized, camera on
When my name was called, something interesting happened:
The trustee’s tone changed—more direct, more efficient. It was clear he recognized he was dealing with a seasoned bankruptcy attorney and a well-prepared filer.
The meeting itself:
- Sworn in
- Identity verified
- Standard yes/no questions
- No creditors appeared
- Total time: ~5–10 minutes
- At the end the trustee wished me good luck, which is a very positive indication.
No interrogation. No curveballs. Just process.
What Stood Out
- Preparation matters
- Attorney presence matters
- Trustees absolutely pick up on professionalism and clean filings
- This is administrative—not adversarial—if your case is straightforward
Honestly, it felt good knowing my attorney’s reputation and presentation commanded immediate respect. It reinforced that choosing the right counsel was the best decision I made in this process.
Where I Am Now
- No follow-ups requested
- Waiting for discharge (roughly 60–90 days)
- Moving forward intentionally, not reactively
Advice for Anyone Considering Chapter 7
- Being current on payments does not mean bankruptcy isn’t appropriate
- Hire an attorney who does this every day, not “on the side”
- The 341 meeting is not court drama—it’s verification
- Bankruptcy is a financial tool, not a character judgment
Happy to answer general experience-based questions (not legal advice).
If you’re reading this while stressed out of your mind: the process is far calmer than your imagination makes it.
— The Real Mongoose
submitted by /u/Mongoose1975
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