Bankruptcy For Creditors
After years of helping both creditors and debtors through bankruptcy, I’ve decided to focus solely on helping debtors. But I’m happy to give you names of excellent creditor lawyers.
Consider bankruptcy an area of law that holds our lives together and keeps our economy flourishing and healthy. Allow bankruptcy law the credit it deserves. It enables individuals and corporations to restart their lives. Allows them to pay their taxes, buy food and other requirements, or pay their employees so that they can purchase food and other essentials.
All of this and more is why I am ecstatic to be able to assist debtors in understanding bankruptcy.
Diane L. Drain
Creditors Bankruptcy FAQs
Examine all loan and security paperwork to confirm that they are comprehensive and that all necessary measures to perfect liens on any collateral supporting the obligation have been taken. If not, never take any action without first obtaining an order from the bankruptcy court. This is a critical phase that determines the strength of a secured creditor’s position in the case. Section 506 explains how a secured claim’s value is determined. Although correcting inadequacies after the filing of the petition may be a violation of the automatic stay, it is critical to be aware of any issues. The secured creditor may have a period of time to perfect the creditor’s lien when the debtor gets possession of property or a transfer is made under Section 547(c)(3) and (e).
The secured creditor or landlord may ask the debtor to sign a new contract called a “reaffirmation agreement” or “assumption of lease” after the bankruptcy is filed but before the discharge is issued. This new contract has the same terms as the original, and Sections 524(c) and (k) describe the paperwork, disclosures, and procedures that the creditor must follow in order to get this new contract. It must be approved by the Court in order for the debtor to be bound by it. Because 524(k)(5)(B) requires the debtor’s attorney to certify that the debtor will be able to make the payments, it’s likely that no debtor’s counsel will sign the reaffirmation agreement. This is not only absurd, but it also begs the question of how anyone could certify someone’s ability to pay a future debt.
Below is a link to a video of Bankruptcy Judge Eileen W. Hollowell, filmed explaining the reaffirmation process.
Look for a reason to object to a debt being discharged under Sections 523 or 727. Creditors have only 60 days from the date of the initial creditors’ meeting to initiate a complaint to have their debts declared non-dischargeable due to a misleading financial statement. A creditor’s chances of winning a non-dischargeable lawsuit are slim, and the creditor will almost always be denied attorney’s fees and expenses for filing the action.
Creditors will be notified of an initial meeting of creditors (Section 341, Meeting of Creditors) to be held by the bankruptcy trustee shortly after a bankruptcy is filed. You are welcome to attend the Section 341, Creditors’ Meeting, but it is not compulsory. This meeting allows the creditor to ask the debtor a few questions about the creditor’s claim, collateral, other claims against the debtor, the debtor’s plans for its bankruptcy case, and other financial matters. Time for the 341 is short, so it is not appropriate to interrogate the Debtor at this time (check out 2004 examinations). This is an excellent moment to inform the Trustee (the person in charge of the meeting) of any inconsistencies detected in the schedules by the creditor. Make sure you can back up any claims you make. The meeting might be attended by either the creditor or its counsel.
An order granting a Motion for Relief from the Automatic Stay, often known as a “stay order,” is obtained by filing a Motion, Notice, and Certificate of Mailing with the court, as well as notifying the appropriate parties. The Debtor is given the opportunity to respond. A hearing will be conducted if a response is filed. An Order, Certificate of No Objection, must be submitted with the Court if no response is filed. The Order will most likely be signed by the Court. The creditor is free to proceed with the action requested in the Motion and granted in the Order once the signed order is received.
Creditors Rights in Arizona
The legal term “Creditor’s Rights” refers to the area of practice for lawyers that concentrates on creditors’ rights and obligations. The Bankruptcy Code has numerous provisions to assist creditors and protect their interests if a bankruptcy petition is filed.
Creditors Rights in Bankruptcy
Attorneys who specialize in creditors rights will typically do one or more of the following:
- To collect consumer debts, file lawsuits and employ other legal means (i.e. debts owed by individuals).
- To collect commercial debts, file lawsuits and utilize other legal collection procedures (i.e. debts owed by businesses).
- In a bankruptcy procedure, represent the interests of a creditor.
- If a buyer defaults on a payment, conduct a foreclosure or trustee’s sale of the property.
- If the buyer defaults on payment, the secured items (such as autos) can be recovered.
- As needed, garnish paychecks or bank accounts.
- Non-exempt property can be sold at a sheriff’s sale.
- Other contractual and legal remedies may be pursued.
Attorneys may charge an hourly rate or a flat fee. Fees and charges are usually determined by:
- The bankruptcy chapter (Chapters 7, 11, or 13);
- What you wish to achieve;
- The extent to which the borrower will oppose your goals.
Clients from all across Arizona have put their trust in us
Diane and Jay are very knowledgeable, and they guided me from beginning to end.
“Diane and Jay are very knowledgeable, and they guided me from beginning to end.” M.M. Diane and Jay are very knowledgeable, and they guided me from beginning to end. They were so organized, that each step was calculated. They are very nice, compassionate and professional. Thank you, [...]
thank you for helping me keep my car and some self respect
"Thank you for helping me keep my car and some self respect." G. Diane – thank you for helping me keep my car and some self respect. This was so hard to do. I did feel a sense of relief once I saw you and we actually were [...]
Diane Was Fabulous During Our Bankruptcy
“Her assurance that there was nothing to be ashamed of, gave us the incentive to proceed.” S.R. Diane was fabulous during our bankruptcy, guiding us every step of the way. After medical bills got us behind, we didn't know where to turn and felt uncomfortable filing. Her [...]
I am so happy I called Diane Drain to get me through bankruptcy!
“Don't waste your time looking for an attorney she's right here! ” A.H. She is the BEST!! I am so happy I called Diane Drain to get me through bankruptcy! She made me feel at ease, answered all my questions and was always available when I needed [...]
Diane and Jay are caring professionals providing exemplary representation
“I found the Law Office of D.L. Drain to be caring professionals providing exemplary representation…” R.B. Disability and subsequent early retirement caused a growing realization of the need to pursue bankruptcy. I started the process of selecting an attorney with fear and trepidation. [...]
My experience was great
"My experience was great" J.H. My experience was great! Diane was very professional and dedicated to helping me with everything I needed. Outstanding! I would recommend her firm to my friends.
You allowed me to be human and treated me with dignity
"You allowed me to be human and treated me with dignity." K.M. I know that you are acutely aware of how deeply emotional and draining financial problems are. You took the time to talk with me about our foreclosure and 2nd mortgage. You allowed me to be human [...]
Diane and Jay were very knowledgeable, professional and supportive
"Diane and Jay were very knowledgeable, professional and supportive!" April Filing bankruptcy was a very difficult choice and experience. But, Diane and Jay were very knowledgeable, professional and supportive throughout the process. Your team made the honor roll in a perfect grade.
You made us feel as though we were your friend; for that we are grateful
You made us feel as though we were your friend; for that we are grateful.. I & A.F. We want to thank you for taking our bankruptcy case. It was a time in our life when we were emotionally, and financially distressed. You put our minds, and [...]
Diane and Jay were both very helpful and promptly answered questions that came up
"Diane and Jay were both very helpful and promptly answered questions that came up" N.F. Diane and Jay were both very helpful and promptly answered questions that came up either via return phone call, email or both. They both were very knowledgeable about the whole process and [...]
Experienced and excellent. 5.0 stars
"Experienced and excellent. 5.0 stars" M.R. Diane did a tremendous job preparing me for my bankruptcy. She educated me thoroughly about the process and stressed the importance of following all the steps as concisely as possible. Her rates are very reasonable, and I cannot recommend her highly [...]
Diane was patient in providing clear direction and advice
Diane was patient in providing clear direction and advice. A.T. Mrs. Drain made a very stressful time in my life easier to manage by providing detailed direction through my bankruptcy process. From day one I felt comfortable with Dian and Jay in addition to feeling confident with [...]
Thank you both for taking care of us and taking the time!!
Thank you both for taking care of us and taking the time!! D.K. My husband and I wanted to begin the process of starting our bankruptcy, but it’s really scary not knowing who you can trust and who would step up to bat for you. Diane and [...]
e were amazed at how accessible Diane was
"We were amazed at how accessible Diane was." Robert We were amazed at how accessible Diane was. Weekdays or weekends at all times of the day it didn’t matter. She was quick to respond to our questions or needs. In short Diane did a great job for us [...]
Diane uses her website to promote the education of the bankruptcy process available to everyone
“Diane uses her website to promote the education of the bankruptcy process available to everyone” T & G. W. We found ourselves in a financial tsunami 2 yrs ago. No matter how we did things the financial outlook was getting worse and worse. We finally decided we [...]
Diane cleaned up serious mistakes made by another attorney
Diane cleaned up serious mistakes made by another attorney. J.D. Diane helped me straighten out my case, after an attorney from a different law firm, made serious mistakes in my filing that could have been extremely detrimental. If not for her very professional guidance, constant communication and follow-up, while [...]
helps to ensure that your assets are protected
“helps to ensure that your assets are protected” R.B. Diane is very detailed, and although it may be overwhelming it is in your best interest to do EXACTLY what she says to do. Follow her directions, be organized and prepared. This helps to ensure that your assets [...]
caring service
“You folks are the BEST OF THE BEST in Arizona” M.H. "caring service" M.C.
Why is a Creditor Suing Me After I Filed Bankruptcy – You Did Not Follow the Law.
What are the Basic Bankruptcy Principles? Bankruptcy is a legal process that helps people and businesses overwhelmed by debt get a financial ‘start fresh’. The [...]
Bankruptcy and New Arizona Homestead Statutes
Bankruptcy Issues After January 1, 2022 Changes in Arizona Homestead Statutes Reprint from Gary Stickell’s website: January 19, 2022 The [...]
- The Arizona Statute of Limitations Applicable to Collection Lawsuits and Non-Judicial Trustee’s Foreclosure Sales of Real Property, Gallery
The Arizona Statute of Limitations Applicable to Collection Lawsuits and Non-Judicial Trustee’s Foreclosure Sales of Real Property,
Collection companies & Debt buyers, Creditors Rights, Debt Relief Agencies, Foreclosure, Trustee Sale and Foreclosure Videos
The Arizona Statute of Limitations Applicable to Collection Lawsuits and Non-Judicial Trustee’s Foreclosure Sales of Real Property,
The Arizona Statute of Limitations Applicable to Collection Lawsuits and Non-Judicial Trustee’s Foreclosure Sales of Real Property, article by Larry O. Folks, Folks Hess, [...]
Enforcement of Arizona Money Judgment Against Debtor’s Residence “Homestead” Property
Analysis of Enforcement of Money Judgments in Arizona Against a Judgment Debtor’s Residence / “Homestead” Property By Larry O. Folks (10/26/20) (reprinted with permission [...]





