While much of what occurs during your bankruptcy case will be a matter of public record, certain details can remain private. For many people, the decision to file for bankruptcy is laden with anxiety and unease, a choice that often follows prolonged financial struggle and hardship.
There’s a common misconception that bankruptcy proceedings thrust every detail of one's personal and financial life into the public spotlight, leaving filers feeling exposed and vulnerable. However, the reality of bankruptcy privacy is more nuanced.
Public vs. Private Information
The idea that filing for bankruptcy makes every financial secret known is a myth. While bankruptcy does involve disclosure, not all information is public.
When you file, you provide a detailed list of your creditors, the amounts you owe, and descriptions of your property. This information is included in the bankruptcy petition and schedules and is available for public review. However, sensitive personal information, such as social security numbers and full account numbers, is generally redacted from the public record.
Protecting Your Privacy During Bankruptcy
While some elements of your financial information will be made available to the public, there are steps you can take to protect your privacy.
Be Mindful of What You Include in Your Petition
During the preparation of bankruptcy documents, ensure that only required personal and financial data are included. If an asset’s value falls within a state’s exemption laws, include it in the list of exempt property rather than non-exempt property, as non-exempt assets may become part of the bankruptcy estate.
The Role of an Attorney
Bankruptcy attorneys can play a crucial role in protecting your privacy. They understand what must be included in the petition and what to leave out. Furthermore, they will make sure that all required fields are filled in correctly to avoid any delays or red flags.
Control the Narrative
While public records are generally accessible, the narrative that’s publicly available can be managed to some degree. For instance, if the reasons for bankruptcy include a medical emergency or sudden job loss, this can be included in the paperwork, potentially explaining financial distress without divulging more personal information than necessary.
Consult with an Attorney to Learn More
Navigating personal bankruptcy is undoubtedly complex and, for many, fraught with emotional and financial weight. Understanding what aspects of your financial and personal information are exposed and what can be withheld is fundamental to managing this process with a sense of control and security.
In the end, the balance between seeking financial relief and managing privacy can be achieved through educated decision-making, thoughtful disclosures, and timely management of the bankruptcy process. An experienced bankruptcy attorney can provide the legal assistance you need to protect as much of your privacy as possible when doing so is important to you.
We at Buchalter & Pelphrey understand that privacy in spite of bankruptcy is a chief concern among many of our clients. That’s why we strive to provide them with the legal knowledge, advice, and services they need to understand their situation, the options available to them, and how to move forward.
For more information about how we can help you, contact us online.