The Bankruptcy Process for Individuals — What to Expect When You Work With Our Las Vegas Bankruptcy Lawyers
Even when you’re drowning in debt, the idea of filing for bankruptcy can feel intimidating. Many people worry about what the process will involve, how long it will take, what they’ll have to give up, or whether they’ll be left alone to figure things out.
At Larson & Zirzow, we believe the bankruptcy process should be straightforward, respectful, and clear from the start. Our Las Vegas bankruptcy lawyers take pride in guiding individuals and families through each stage step by step, so you’re never left wondering what’s next. We don’t rush cases through a “one size fits all” system. Instead, we use our deep experience and Board-Certified expertise to make sure everything is done properly, so you can focus on moving forward.
If you’re considering personal bankruptcy, whether it’s Chapter 7 or Chapter 13, here’s what you can expect when you choose Larson & Zirzow to handle your case.
A Path to a Fresh Start
Bankruptcy is not about losing everything. It’s about taking back control and finding relief from debts you can’t pay. The process provides powerful legal protections that stop creditors in their tracks and give you a real chance to rebuild. But these protections only work when you understand the steps involved and have experienced attorneys on your side to guide you.
Step 1: Your Initial Consultation
Every successful bankruptcy starts with an open, honest conversation. When you meet with us for the first time, we’ll sit down with you to learn about your finances, your debts, your assets, and your goals. We’ll ask about your income, your expenses, your property, and any major life events that could affect your case.
This isn’t a sales pitch; it’s a chance to understand whether bankruptcy is truly right for you. If there’s a better solution, such as negotiating with creditors or taking another legal route, we’ll tell you. Our focus is not on volume; it’s on getting the best outcome for each client, whatever it takes.
Step 2: Gathering the Right Information
Once you decide to move forward, we’ll help you gather the paperwork and information needed to build a strong case. This includes, for example:
- Recent pay stubs and income information
- Tax returns
- Lists of debts and creditors
- Bank account statements
- Property deeds or vehicle titles
- Monthly living expenses
- Any lawsuits, judgments, or claims
We know this can feel overwhelming, so we break it down into clear steps. We’ll explain exactly what we need and why, and we’ll make sure nothing is overlooked.
Step 3: Pre-Bankruptcy Planning
Before we file, we’ll help you understand how Nevada’s exemptions protect your property and whether any recent financial moves could affect your case. This is when our strategic approach really pays off. We’ll talk through any big transactions, potential inheritances, or pending lawsuits, and make sure you’re set up for the smoothest possible filing.
Step 4: Mandatory Credit Counseling
Federal law requires everyone who files for bankruptcy to complete a brief credit counseling course from an approved agency. This course is not a test and usually takes about 90 minutes online or by phone. Once you finish, you’ll receive a certificate that you’ll need to file along with your bankruptcy petition.
Step 5: Filing Your Bankruptcy Petition
When all your information is ready and reviewed, we prepare and file your bankruptcy petition with the court. This is the moment when the Automatic Stay takes effect, implementing an immediate court order that stops creditors from calling, suing, garnishing your wages, or repossessing your property. For many clients, this is the first real breath of relief they’ve felt in a long time.
Step 6: The Meeting of Creditors (341 Hearing)
About a month after you file, you’ll attend a short hearing called the 341 Meeting of Creditors. This is not a trial, and it usually takes only a few minutes. The bankruptcy trustee — not a judge — will ask you some routine questions about your petition and your finances. Creditors are allowed to attend, but they rarely do.
You won’t be alone. We will attend this meeting with you, make sure you’re prepared, and ensure everything goes smoothly.
Step 7: Following Through on Your Chapter
From here, the process depends on whether you’re filing Chapter 7 or Chapter 13.
In a Chapter 7 case, once the trustee signs off and there are no objections, your qualifying debts are typically discharged about two to three months after the hearing. You’ll receive a discharge order, which permanently wipes out those debts and prevents creditors from ever trying to collect them again.
In a Chapter 13 case, you’ll work through your approved repayment plan, making monthly payments over three or five years. We stay with you every step of the way, making sure payments stay on track, answering questions, and handling any issues that come up with the trustee or creditors.
Step 8: Life After Discharge
The day your debts are discharged is the day you truly start fresh. But we don’t disappear when the paperwork is done. We talk with you about how to rebuild your credit, budget responsibly, and make smart financial decisions to stay on solid ground. Many people are surprised at how quickly they can qualify for new credit, a vehicle loan, or even a mortgage after bankruptcy if they handle it wisely.
The Right Guidance Makes All the Difference
Filing for bankruptcy is a powerful legal remedy, but only if it’s done right. Mistakes, missed paperwork, or rushed filings can cause delays, extra costs, or even the loss of assets you might have been able to protect. With Larson & Zirzow, you get more than forms and deadlines. You get a team that takes the time to do things properly, watches out for your interests at every step, and explains everything in plain language so you never feel lost.
A Proven Process, A Personal Approach
Every case is unique. Some are straightforward, while others involve complex assets, high-value property, or potential litigation. As a boutique firm, we handle both simple and complicated cases with the same commitment to personal service and thorough preparation. With an experienced team including a Board-Certified Business Bankruptcy Specialist, our lawyers bring advanced insight and expertise that few other Nevada law firms can offer.
Whether you’re filing as an individual, a small business owner, or you’re facing creditor claims or disputes, we know how to navigate every twist and turn to protect you and get you to the finish line.
Take the First Step Toward Peace of Mind
If you’re overwhelmed by debt and unsure what tomorrow holds, take the first step toward a better future. The sooner you talk to an experienced bankruptcy attorney, the more options you’ll have to protect your income, your property, and your peace of mind.
Contact Larson & Zirzow to get started today for a consultation. We’ll explain the bankruptcy process clearly, answer your questions honestly, and build a strategy that works for you — from start to fresh start.