How is a case initiated? The case is initiated by filing a Petition, Affidavit of Debts and Order Enjoining Creditors and Appointing Trustee in the circuit court of the county where the debtor resides. For the location of the circuit courts throughout Wisconsin, go to www.wicourts.gov/contact/ccsites.htm. A copy of everything should also be mailed or faxed to the trustee. Our fax number is 414-258-6510. With your filing, include two postage paid envelopes, one addressed to yourself, the other addressed our office. The Court will use the envelopes to send the signed Order to us. What is the filing fee? The filing fee is $35 in Milwaukee County, $31.50 in all other counties. What happens after the papers are filed? The assigned court signs an Initial Order Enjoining Creditors and Appointing Trustee. The debtor must see to it that the Order is forwarded to the trustee. In turn, the trustee holds a noticed meeting to consider the plan for confirmation. After the meeting the trustee submits a recommendation to the court for the plan to be either confirmed or dismissed. Plans that are feasible, funded and undisputed are recommended for confirmation and comprise the majority of cases. How are plans funded? Plans are funded by payroll deduction, unless the debtor's income is from some other source. Payments must commence with the first paycheck the employer processes after receiving notice of the case. May creditors object to a plan? Yes, creditors may object to a plan and request a hearing. The trustee will make every effort to resolve the matter in dispute. In rare instances, a hearing is necessary. Does the debtor have to appear in court? No, except in the rare instance when a creditor objects to the plan and the court requires testimony from the debtor. Does a debtor need an attorney? An attorney is recommended, but not required. Attorney fees usually are quite modest and can be paid through the plan. Do creditors need to file a claim? The initial papers filed by the debtor include an Affidavit of Debts. This paper lists the name and address of each creditor to be paid, the account number and the balance due as of the date of filing. Creditors are encouraged to file a claim if the amount scheduled on the Affidavit is not correct. Claims may be filed at or prior to the meeting. If a creditor does not file a claim, the balance shown on the Affidavit of Debts is presumed to be correct. When do payments to creditors begin? Payments to creditors begin after the Court confirms the plan. Confirmation usually occurs within three months after the case starts. Disbursements are made every three months, unless the debtor has good cause to request monthly disbursements.