If you are a Chapter 7 client of Cross Stone Law or considering becoming one, this information may be helpful:

Hearing Location

All Chapter 7 hearings are held at the Plaza Tower office building in Tyler:

110 North College
3rd Floor
Tyler, TX 75702

This is not a courthouse. It is an office building. There are at least 3 courthouses in Tyler. Apparently, there was still not enough room for the US Bankruptcy Court. So, look for the Plaza Tower. The Tyler division Chapter 7 hearings are usually held on Fridays between 9:00 am and 2:00 pm.

What to bring

Bring only your driver’s license and social security card. Nothing else unless instructed.

The hearing in a Chapter 7 bankruptcy

Often called a “341 meeting” or “Meeting of Creditors,” the hearing takes place about a month after filing the case. Hearing dates and times are set by the Court a few days after the case is filed. The Court gives a minimum of 20 days’ notice before the hearing date. Each hearing is assigned a specific time like 9:15 am or 2:00 pm. Generally, one to four hearings are scheduled for every 15 minute time increment.

People tend to unnecessarily worry about the hearing procedures. Judge Judy will not attend. In fact, no judge will be there. This hearing is held by the Chapter 7 trustee. The people at the place of the hearings are usually other individuals waiting for their hearing, their attorneys, and the court personnel, including the Trustee.

“Meeting of Creditors” is a scary term. Creditors seldom attend unless there are problems.

Routine hearing procedures vary by the case trustee. The hearing is conducted by a trustee who will verify your identity and will have a few questions. Examples of questions are:

  • Mr. Smith, did you review the bankruptcy documents before you signed them?
  • Did you list all of your assets and debts?
  • Do you have a claim against anyone for anything whatsoever?
  • Are there any errors or omissions in your paperwork?
  • Do you expect to inherit anything in the near future?
  • Do you own any oil or gas leases?

At this point, if the Trustee or a creditor has more specific questions related to the debtor’s finances or assets, they will be asked. The hearing is normally very low-key. Anyone can become overwhelmed by debt for many different reasons. The trustees in the Tyler and Marshall division are always professional and respectful. We have also spent a tremendous amount of time getting your paperwork right. The hearing is just another step to rebuilding, so don’t stress.