Chapter 12: Family Farmer or Fisherman

Court fess: $200
$39 administrative fee: Total fee $239

Chapter 12 is designed to permit family farmers and fishermen to repay their debts over a period of time from future earnings and is similar to chapter 13. The eligibility requirements are restrictive, limiting its use to those whose income arises primarily from a family-owned farm or commercial fishing operation.

Bankruptcy crimes and availability of bankruptcy papers to law enforcement officials.

A person who knowingly and fraudulently conceals assets or makes a false oath or statement under penalty of perjury, either orally or in writing, in connection with a bankruptcy case is subject to a fine, imprisonment, or both.  All information supplied by a debtor in connection with a bankruptcy case is subject to examination by the Attorney General acting through the Office of the United States Trustee, the Office of the United States Attorney, and other components and employees of the Department of Justice.

WARNING: Section 521(a)(1) of the Bankruptcy Code requires that you promptly file detailed information regarding your creditors, assets, liabilities, income, expenses and general financial condition.  Your bankruptcy case may be dismissed if this information is not filed with the court within the time deadlines set by the Bankruptcy Code, the Bankruptcy Rules, and the local rules of the court.

You are cautioned that bankruptcy law is complicated and not easily described.  Thus, you may wish to seek the advice of an attorney to learn of your rights and responsibilities should you decide to file a petition.  Court employees cannot give you legal advice.

Gary Bollinger and the Bankruptcy Center serves as a Debt Relief Agent: that is, we help people get debt relief under the Bankruptcy Code.