From Straffi & Straffi Attorneys at Law - What Happens at a 341 Meeting of Creditors? breaks down the short but important meeting of creditors that comes up in nearly every bankruptcy case, explaining what it is, who runs it, and why it matters for Chapter 7, Chapter 12, and Chapter 13 filers in New Jersey.
In this episode, you’ll hear what the 341 meeting actually looks like—no courtroom, no judge, usually just you, your attorney, and the bankruptcy trustee—plus how long it typically lasts and why creditors rarely show up, especially in Chapter 7 cases. We also cover the legal foundation behind the process, including 11 U.S.C. § 341 and the timing rules under Bankruptcy Rule 2003, so you know when to expect your meeting after filing.
You’ll get a practical checklist of what to submit ahead of time under 11 U.S.C. § 521, such as your most recent federal income tax return, pay stubs from the 60 days before filing, and bank statements showing balances on your filing date, along with what you must have ready for identity verification (photo ID and proof of Social Security number). Since New Jersey 341 meetings are handled virtually for cases noticed on or after September 1, 2023, we also cover meeting logistics like joining Zoom early, staying muted until your case is called, and how attorneys may confirm identity using tools like FaceTime or Skype.
Finally, Daniel Straffi Jr., Esq. shares how to prepare to answer trustee questions under oath, including common topics like real estate, transfers, lawsuits, tax refunds, child support or alimony, and what caused the bankruptcy. We also explain what happens after the meeting in both Chapter 7 (the path toward a discharge) and Chapter 13 (the confirmation hearing and repayment plan), plus what to do if the trustee asks for more documents or schedules a Rule 2004 examination. If you’re filing in Ocean County, Toms River, Monmouth County, or elsewhere in Central or Southern New Jersey, this episode helps you show up ready, avoid delays, and move forward with confidence.
Straffi & Straffi Attorneys at Law
670 Commons Way, Toms River, NJ 08755, United States
(732) 341-3800
