A bankruptcy case must be filed in the federal district where the debtor has maintained his residence or principal place of business “for the one hundred and eighty days immediately preceding such commencement, or for a longer portion of such one-hundred-and-eighty-day period.” 28 USC 1408. In laymen’s terms, the case must be filed in the bankruptcy district where the debtor has lived for the longest portion of the last six months. If joint debtors reside in tow different federal districts, it may be proper to choose either location.

This past week has been “Bike Week” in Daytona Beach, which is the next county over. It’s not unusual to see groups of weekend warriors out riding around Central Florida, but more so this time of year. One question I’ve learned to ask during any initial bankruptcy consult is what I call “The Toy Question”: Do you have any motorcycles, jetskis, boats, ATV’s, etc.? This question is important because the answer often is a reason for some people to pause and rethink the decision to file a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy.

You can villify me later. For now, I need you to read and get some perspective. Pay attention because we’re going to move fast.
You need to file for bankruptcy.
Let me say it again for those of you who are still shaking your head.
YOU NEED to file for bankruptcy!
There, I gave you a little emphasis to really drive my point home.
Bankruptcy = Responsible Financial Behavior.

Bankruptcy courts vary as to the specificity required for the description of household furnishings. Most courts are satisfied with a brief description of the types of household goods rather than an itemized list of every item. For example, a debtor can list table settings for eight instead of itemizing each plate, saucer etc… Similar groupings can be used for bedroom and living room sets. Major items such as appliances and items with a high value should be listed separately. A list of items can also be attached separately as an appendix to the petition and incorporated by reference.