how long must an attorney keep bankruptcy papers in massachusetts

by Chelsey Bruen I 6 min read

How long does an attorney have to keep client files in Massachusetts?

six yearsExcept for materials governed by paragraphs (d), (e) and (f), a lawyer shall take reasonable measures to retain a client's file in a matter until at least six years have elapsed after completion of the matter or termination of the representation in the matter unless (i) the lawyer has transferred the file or items to ...

Are bankruptcies public record Massachusetts?

Every state may be slightly different, but as bankruptcy is ruled upon by the Massachusetts court, it will create a public record. This record will be available to anyone in the court at the time of the ruling or anyone that has access to bankruptcy rulings and information.

How do I find bankruptcy records in Massachusetts?

How to Get Massachusetts Bankruptcy Records. Copies of bankruptcy case documents, official documents, and claims registers are available to members of the public upon request. Interested persons can either access records through court-provided online databases or request physical copies from the courts.

How far back can bankruptcy bank statements go?

Your bankruptcy trustee can ask for up to two years of bank statements. The trustee will look at your statements to verify your monthly payments to make sure they match the expenses you put on your bankruptcy forms.

How do I look up court cases in Massachusetts?

Online +Go to www.masscourts.org and type the letters in the challenge image. ... Click the button that says "Click here to search public records." You'll then select the court department and court division you're searching in.More items...

What happens when you file Chapter 7?

How Does Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Work? When you file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, the court places an automatic temporary stay on your current debts. This stops creditors from collecting payments, garnishing your wages, foreclosing on your home, repossessing property, evicting you or turning off your utilities.

Can I keep my house if I file bankruptcy in Massachusetts?

You can keep property protected by an exemption or "exempt" property. When a bankruptcy exemption doesn't cover the property, you'll either lose it in Chapter 7 or have to pay for it in the Chapter 13 repayment plan. Choosing state or federal exemptions.

What are the differences between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy?

With Chapter 7, those types of debts are wiped out with your filing's court approval, which can take a few months. Under Chapter 13, you need to continue making payments on those balances throughout your court-instructed repayment plan; afterwards, the unsecured debts may be discharged.

What is the downside of filing for bankruptcy?

Filing for bankruptcy can negatively impact your immediate financial future. Obtaining credit after filing for bankruptcy could mean increased interest rates. Obtaining credit after filing for bankruptcy might require security deposits.

Can a bankruptcy trustee find bank accounts?

The trustee is entitled to audit your bank accounts. It may happen randomly, or it may happen because you've tipped off the trustee's suspicions. If they think you're committing any kind of fraud, you may expect them to take a closer look at your assets.

Does bankruptcy look at your bank account?

Your Chapter 7 bankruptcy trustee will likely check your bank accounts at least once during the process of overseeing your filing. They have a right to perform a full audit of your accounts or check them any time it is necessary. However, it is rare for them to keep close tabs on every account.

Can creditors demand to see bank statements?

To get the information they need, your creditors can apply for a court order to make you go back to court. You can be forced to bring in documents and answer questions under oath about your financial situation. This is called an order to obtain information.