Evidentiary hearing for failure to list P/I case in bankruptcy

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1. Licensed in NY

   

   Michael SchwartzPro

   White Plains Bankruptcy Attorney

   Contributor Level 14

   

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   Answered February 05, 2013 15:42. I guess you are asking if the trustee can do what he or she is doing & the answer of course will be decided by the judge.
   
   The issue is why you did not list the personal injury case in your bankruptcy petition?
   
   If it was an honest mistake, such as you had no intention of starting a law suit (assuming none had been started when you filed bankruptcy OR you thought the question in the Statement of Financial Affairs regarding law suits did not mean personal injury suits, whether because the case was not put into suit or you thought it meant collection law suits against you, you should be ok.

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2. 

   Diane L Gruber

   West Linn Bankruptcy Attorney

   Contributor Level 17

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   Answered February 05, 2013 15:39. This is serious. Be sure to discuss it with your bankruptcy attorney. Yes, a trustee can dis-allow any applicable exemption due to your omitting this asset from your petition. Good luck.

   Be sure to designate "best answer." If you live in Oregon, you may call me for more detailed advice, 503-650-9662.... moreBe sure to designate "best answer." If you live in Oregon, you may call me for more detailed advice, 503-650-9662. Please be aware that each answer on this website is based upon the facts, or lack thereof, provided in the question. To be sure you get complete and comprehensive answers, based upon the totality of your situation, contact a local attorney who specializes in the area of law that involves your legal problem. Diane L. Gruber has been practicing law in Oregon for 26 years, specializing in family law, bankruptcy, estate planning and probate. Note: Diane L. Gruber does not represent you until a written fee agreement has been signed by you and Diane L. Gruber, and the fee listed in the agreement has been paid. less

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3. Licensed in NY

   

   Theodore AraujoPro

   Syracuse Bankruptcy Attorney

   Contributor Level 20

   

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   Answered February 06, 2013 06:59. Amend the petition and list the PI case. If there was bad faith the Trustee would still have an objection. If you do not have a lawyer, get one.

   Disclaimer: This answer does not constitute legal advice. I am admitted in the States of New York, New Jersey and... moreDisclaimer: This answer does not constitute legal advice. I am admitted in the States of New York, New Jersey and Massachusetts only and make no attempt to opine on matters of law that are not relevant to those three States. This advice is based on general principles of law that may or may not relate to your specific situation. Facts and laws change and these possible changes will affect the advice provided here. Consult an attorney in your locale before you act on any of this advice. You should not rely on this advice alone and nothing in these communications creates an attorney client relationship. less

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4. 

   Scott Riddle

   Atlanta Litigation Lawyer

   Contributor Level 16

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   Answered February 05, 2013 15:41. You could lose your discharge over it.

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5. 

   Richard HawkinsPro

   Las Vegas Chapter 11 Bankruptcy Attorney

   Contributor Level 14

   

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   Answered February 05, 2013 23:49. As has been pointed out, the big question is *why* you didn't list it.
   
   Once the trustee relies upon the lack of exemption, it is generally too late to amend your exemptions.

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