Oakland Bankruptcy Attorney
JC Law Group PC handles bankruptcy cases throughout Contra Costa and Alameda County. If you live within these counties, your bankruptcy will be filed in Oakland Bankruptcy Court. We will work with you closely in order to prepare your bankruptcy petition for filing as quickly as possible.
After your bankruptcy petition is filed with the court you will receive a notice of your “341 Hearing,” otherwise known as the “Meeting of Creditors.” While the name of the meeting is somewhat daunting, creditors rarely show up. You’ll simply meet with your trustee and answer a series of questions about your financial situation. We will of course be there as well.
Frequently Asked Questions About 341 Hearing (Meeting of Creditors)
How many bankruptcy cases are filed in Oakland?
There were more than 9,700 Chapter 7 bankruptcy cases filed in the Oakland Bankruptcy Court between September 2009 and August 2010. During that same time period, more than 4,600 Chapter 13 bankruptcy cases were filed. The current state of the economy has placed several people in a difficult financial situation and you will not be alone in your decision to file for bankruptcy.
Why should I hire an Oakland bankruptcy attorney?
Filing for bankruptcy can be a complex process. It is important for you to have an attorney familiar with the Oakland Bankruptcy Court and the trustees on your side. While bankruptcy filings are regulated by the federal government, each county has unique judges and trustees, many of which require different documents and questionnaires. An Oakland bankruptcy attorney will be familiar with the procedures practiced by the local court system.
How many meetings must I attend if I file?
We know that taking time off from work in order to meet with us can be very difficult, especially if you are already struggling financially. We try to make the process of filing for bankruptcy as easy as possible by communicating with you via email or over the phone as often as possible. We’ll do our best to limit office visits after your initial consultation.
There are typically two meetings with your Oakland bankruptcy lawyer. First, at the initial consultation, and another meeting when we sign your bankruptcy petition. Meeting with your Oakland bankruptcy attorney in person at the initial consultation will give you the opportunity to become comfortable with us while addressing any concerns you may have about what is often an emotionally draining process.
In most cases, you will need to show up for one meeting with the trustee.
Where will my “Meeting of Creditors” be held?
Attendance at your meeting of creditors is mandatory and will be held in the Oakland Federal Building at 1301 Clay Street, Room 680N, Oakland, CA 94612. There is heavy security within the Oakland Federal Building, so we suggest you arrive at least 1 hour before your hearing. You must have a valid (not expired), government issued photo ID with you in order to enter the building. Anyone without ID will be denied access to the building. You must also bring documents proving your social security number.
When you walk into room 680, there is a large room where the Meeting of Creditors are held. To your left, you will see a long table with your Trustee sitting in the middle. You will sit on one end of the table and your attorney will sit on the opposite end of the table.
Please meet us in the waiting room, which is immediately to your right when you enter the room.
Map of 1301 Clay Street