When a person files for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, the bankruptcy court might discharge some or even all of that person's debts. When a court discharges a debt that basically means that the debt is forgiven, which means the person will not have to pay what they owe to a certain creditor or on a certain bill.

Some debts cannot be discharged by the court. Non-dischargeable debts include student loans, alimony, child support, government fines or penalties, and most taxes. Businesses cannot have their debts discharged in bankruptcy court; only individuals can.

If the bankruptcy court decides to discharge a particular debt, a debtor will no longer be personally liable for that debt. A discharge is a permanent federal injunction. However, creditors and trustees are given a 60 day period after a debt is discharged to file a complaint providing reasons why they believe the debt should be repaid and not discharged. This kind of complaint is known as a non-dischargeability complaint. Trustees can also request that certain discharges be denied.

To learn more about Chapter 7 bankruptcy and how you might be able to get some of your debts discharged, speak to a Houston bankruptcy attorney today by contacting the Malaise Law Firm.