ABA Family Legal Guide

Consumer Bankruptcy

Straight Bankruptcy: Chapter 7

Chapter 7 Defined

What debts will not be eliminated if I file for Chapter 7?

Exceptions to Chapter 7 discharge include:

• tax claims
• alimony
• child support (including past-due support)
• many property settlement obligations from a divorce or separation
• most student loans
• damages for "willful and malicious" acts such as assaulting another person
• fraudulent debts