Can a Court Take Back a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Discharge?

TRI Writer • December 29, 2021

Many American consumers have previously filed for bankruptcy. For most, the most stress-relieving part of the process is when they receive their discharge of debt. The discharge order relieves the debtor of all liability to repay the debts included in the bankruptcy, offering them a fresh start financially. However, some have heard “horror” stories about the bankruptcy court revoking a discharge of debt.

Can the Bankruptcy Court Revoke a Chapter 7 Discharge?

The court may indeed revoke a Chapter 7 discharge (11 U.S.C. § 727(d)). The trustee, a creditor, or the U.S. trustee may request that the discharge be revoked if:

•the petitioner engaged in fraudulent behavior to obtain the discharge,

•the petitioner knowingly (and fraudulently) failed to report the acquisition of property or surrender estate property to the trustee,

•or the petitioner makes a material misstatement or fails to provide documentation or info in connection to an audit of the case.

What Happens If the Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Discharge is Revoked?

If the court revokes your bankruptcy discharge, you are no longer released from the responsibility to pay debts listed in your bankruptcy. Instead, you remain liable for your previously discharged debts. Your creditors are then able to resume collection efforts. They may garnish your wages, levy on your car or house, and record liens. Additionally, if you committed bankruptcy fraud or abused the bankruptcy system somehow, you could be assessed fines, be required to forfeit assets, or even face federal criminal charges.

What Happens If I Lose My Discharge Order?

While having your discharge revoked comes with potentially severe consequences, losing your discharge order does not have to cause much trouble at all. If you lose your discharge order, your discharge is not affected. You can simply obtain another copy of the order by contacting the clerk at the bankruptcy court where you received the original order. The court will charge a fee for searching the records to find the information, and there is also a fee for making additional copies. If the case is officially closed, there could also be an additional “retrieval” fee to obtain the record from archived files. In some cases, you may be able to use self-service access to public records to obtain a new copy of your order.

We understand that financial struggle is complex, and we want to help. If you have questions about bankruptcy and how to obtain a Chapter 7 discharge , please don’t hesitate to contact Ken Rannick. Most bankruptcy offices in the Chattanooga area don’t have a single Consumer Bankruptcy Specialist on staff. Ken Rannick is recognized as a Board Certified (Senior Specialist) in Consumer Bankruptcy Law by the American Board of Certification. In addition, he is recognized and inducted as a “Superlawyer” by his fellow lawyers, which is awarded to less than 2% of all lawyers in his field. You are in good hands with Kenneth C. Rannick P.C.

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Are you a Tennessee resident facing financial challenges and considering bankruptcy? If so, you may have heard about a relatively new option called Subchapter 5 bankruptcy. But what exactly is Subchapter 5 and how does it differ from traditional Chapter 11 bankruptcy? More importantly, what benefits does it offer to individuals and small businesses?  In this blog post, we will explore the world of Subchapter 5 bankruptcy and shed light on its advantages for Tennessee residents. Whether you're a struggling entrepreneur or an individual burdened by overwhelming debt, understanding the potential benefits of Subchapter 5 can help you make informed decisions about your financial future. What is Subchapter 5 Bankruptcy? Subchapter 5 is a relatively recent addition to the United States Bankruptcy Code, specifically designed to provide a streamlined and cost-effective bankruptcy process for small businesses and individuals. It was created as part of the Small Business Reorganization Act (SBRA) in 2019, with the aim of increasing accessibility to Chapter 11 bankruptcy relief. The Benefits of Subchapter 5 Bankruptcy Simplified Process: One of the key advantages of Subchapter 5 is its simplified and faster bankruptcy process. Unlike traditional Chapter 11 bankruptcy, which can be complex and costly, Subchapter 5 offers a more streamlined approach that is better suited for small businesses and individuals. Retention of Ownership: Under Subchapter 5, business owners have the opportunity to retain ownership and control of their company while developing a repayment plan. This allows for greater flexibility and the ability to restructure debts without losing ownership interests. Reduced Plan Requirements: Subchapter 5 eliminates certain stringent plan requirements that are typically associated with traditional Chapter 11 bankruptcy. This simplification of the plan process makes it more accessible to small businesses and individuals. Debt Repayment Plan: Subchapter 5 allows for the development of a debt repayment plan based on the individual's or small business's disposable income. This plan spans over three to five years, making it more manageable and achievable for debtors. Creditor-Friendly Approach: Subchapter 5 encourages creditor participation and collaboration, promoting consensual resolutions and a more amicable environment. This can lead to increased cooperation, reduced litigation costs, and ultimately, a more successful restructuring process. Subchapter 5 vs. Chapter 11 Bankruptcy: Understanding the Difference While both Subchapter 5 bankruptcy and traditional Chapter 11 bankruptcy share some similarities, there are significant differences between the two. The primary distinction lies in the complexity, cost, and requirements associated with each option. Subchapter 5 offers a more simplified and accessible bankruptcy process specifically tailored to the needs of small businesses and individuals, while Chapter 11 is better suited for larger businesses with more complex financial structures. If you're a Tennessee resident grappling with financial difficulties, Subchapter 5 bankruptcy may provide a viable solution. Its streamlined process, reduced plan requirements, and debtor-friendly approach make it an attractive option for small businesses and individuals seeking relief from overwhelming debt. Before making any decisions, it's essential to consult with a qualified bankruptcy attorney who can guide you through the process and help determine the best course of action for your specific situation. Remember, bankruptcy is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and the outcome will depend on various factors. However, understanding the potential benefits of Subchapter 5 bankruptcy can empower you to make informed decisions about your financial future. At Kenneth C. Rannick, P.C., we specialize in bankruptcy law and can provide the guidance and support you need during challenging times. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and explore your options for a fresh start. Take control of your financial future with Subchapter 5 bankruptcy. Let us help you navigate the path to a brighter tomorrow.
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