Chapter 7 questions are common since the bankruptcy laws changed in 2005. Most of the questions are answered very easily but a good bankruptcy attorney should be contacted if anyone is considering bankruptcy. Chapter 7 is one method of bankruptcy that is called "liquidation bankruptcy". It is intended for individuals and businesses. Any non-exempt property and items will be sold by a trustee appointed by the court. 99% of individual cases, however, have no non-exempt property. No more than 6 months before the chapter 7 filing, a debtor must attend a court-approved credit counseling course and get a certificate to prove participation. Paperwork must then be filed and special attention should be made not to leave out any details. These forms will list creditors, debts, income, expenditures and more. Failure to list a creditor or debt will remove it from the bankruptcy hearings and if that happens, they can still try to get their money from you. Chapter 7 bankruptcy normally takes anywhere between 2-6 months. The items and property you are allowed to keep can vary from state to state. For other chapter 7 questions, please contact a local bankruptcy attorney.