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FIVE STEPS TO FILING BANKRUPTCY WITH OUR OFFICE: 

STEP 1: Request a client packet. Our client packet contains information about filing bankruptcy, a reminder list of things you should be doing BEFORE filing bankruptcy, a retainer agreement that signifies your agreement with our office to represent you in a bankruptcy and a client questionnaire that must be completed thoroughly. You can request a packet by emailing your full name and mailing address to melissaatthompsonlaw@gmail.com or by calling us at 515-875-4850. (If you are married and filing jointly, be sure to provide us with both spouses full names). 

STEP 2: Return the client packet. Once we’ve received your completed questionnaire, the signed retainer agreement and the initial retainer fee, we will begin the paperwork on our end. Our review of your case and options is based on the documents you provide to us, a list of which is included in the client packet. It’s really important that you complete the questionnaire in its entirety and return it in a timely fashion to our office, so we can get started on your file.

STEP 3: Follow up with our office regarding any additional questions we may have. In order to ensure that your bankruptcy is filed in a timely fashion, you will need to be available to our office to answer any lingering questions we may have before filing. It's best if you can provide us with an email address so that we can communicate with each other even after the normal work day. Promptly returning information to our office will only help us move your case along quicker.

STEP 4: Complete Credit Counseling. Credit Counseling is now mandatory and must be completed in two sessions. The first session will take place before we file the bankruptcy. The second session will take place after the filing. Our office will provide you with information on when you need to complete the credit counseling and how to go about doing it. It is your responsibility to make sure these sessions are completed.

STEP 5: Schedule your appointment. Once we've completed your bankruptcy paperwork, we will contact you to schedule an appointment to come in for a face to face review of the documents that will be filed with the court on your behalf. It is imperative that you make your meeting! We understand you have a busy schedule, but we will NOT file your bankruptcy until you have reviewed the information and signed the completed bankruptcy schedules. This is also your opportunity to ask any lingering questions which may not have already been answered.

For more information on what happens after your scheduled meeting please visit "The Bankruptcy Process” page.