Wyoming Bankruptcy Records

Are Bankruptcy Records Public Information in Wyoming?

As records generated and maintained by federal courts, bankruptcy records are public information. Under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), records created or managed by public agencies are public information. The act exists to make information about government operations readily available to the public information and to promote transparency in government. If a bankruptcy record is sealed, that record is not public information. Sealed records may only be accessed by authorized parties, including the persons named on the record, bankruptcy case parties’ attorneys, and some government agencies. Additionally, personal identifying information such as social security and tax identification numbers, names of minor children, and debtors’ financial account numbers are not public information. Bankruptcy records only contain the last four digits of social security, tax identification, and bank account numbers.

Record seekers looking for an alternative to government sources may obtain bankruptcy records from third-party websites. These non-governmental websites often come with tools that help simplify the search for single or multiple records. However, record availability on third-party sites tends to vary because they’re independent of government sources. To obtain bankruptcy case information using third-party sites, record seekers may need to provide:

• A complete name of the debtor involved in the record
• A bankruptcy case number

How to Get Wyoming Bankruptcy Records

Interested parties may get Wyoming bankruptcy records in person at the courthouse, online, or over the phone. The bankruptcy court provides access to bankruptcy records through public access terminals at the court locations. Interested parties may search bankruptcy records at no charge using the public terminals. However, the fee for printing records through the public access terminal is $0.10 per page. Requesting parties may also make requests in person at the Bankruptcy Court Clerk’s office. Copies that the Bankruptcy Court Clerk’s office staff produce cost $0.50 per page.

The Voice Case Information System (VCIS) makes bankruptcy records available to requesting parties through a touch-tone automated system. Interested parties may call the Wyoming Bankruptcy Court VCIS toll-free on (866) 222-8029. Requesters must have the case number and the debtor’s name to access bankruptcy records. The VCIS offers the following information from bankruptcy records:

• Case number
• Debtor Name
• Date filed
• Consumer or business
• Assets status
• Attorney
• Judge
• Status of case
• Discharge date
• Date closed
• Disposition

Requesting parties can get bankruptcy court records online from PACER (Public Access to Court Electronic Records). Requesters must register for an account to use PACER. For each search page, users will be charged $0.10.

What are Wyoming Bankruptcy Records?

Wyoming bankruptcy records contain all the information available about bankruptcy cases filed in the state or federal judicial district. Individuals, couples, partnerships, organizations, and other entities who cannot repay debt or meet up with financial obligations may file for bankruptcy under federal laws. The bankruptcy process grants debtors relief from financial obligations through liquidation, reorganization, or repayment plans. Bankruptcy also helps to ensure that creditors receive payment in an orderly manner. There are several kinds of bankruptcy cases, each outlined in different sections of the Federal Bankruptcy Code. A debtor may file the type of bankruptcy case that is most applicable or best meets the debtor’s needs.

Wyoming's Bankruptcy Process

Wyoming state courts do not hear bankruptcy cases - only federal courts do. The bankruptcy process is guided by federal laws, and federal courts have exclusive jurisdiction over bankruptcy cases. In the Wyoming judicial district, there is only one bankruptcy court, which is the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Wyoming. The court has offices in Casper and Cheyenne. The court clerk manages bankruptcy records and other court records. Interested parties may obtain bankruptcy courts from the court clerk in person, online, and through other means that the court makes available. Bankruptcy records are also available on third-party websites. Interested parties may retrieve public bankruptcy information from these sites.

What Do Wyoming Bankruptcy Records Contain?

Bankruptcy records contain forms, petitions, statements, motions, orders, and other information about bankruptcy cases. The contents of bankruptcy records may vary depending on the type of bankruptcy case the record holder files. Since the different types of bankruptcy cases address different types of debtors, the processes require different forms and supplementary documentation. However, there are documents or information that a requester can expect to find in a bankruptcy record, including:

• Debtor’s name and contact details
• A list of all creditors and contact details
• The debtor’s financial statements
• The bankruptcy case number
• Case disposition
• Discharge date
• Trustee name

Where to Conduct a Free Bankruptcy Case Search in Wyoming

A free bankruptcy case search in Wyoming can be conducted through public service computers or the automated voice case information system.

• The Voice Case Information System: This system provides information on cases filed in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Wyoming. By calling the contact number, inquirers can obtain a list of cases filed within the specified period, depending on the information provided.
• Public Service Computers: These computers are available at each office of the clerk of court in Wyoming. They provide access to records related to bankruptcy proceedings filed over a certain period of time. Computer terminals are available at public libraries throughout Wyoming with access to federal court records as well as state court dockets.

How Do I Find Out if My Bankruptcy Case is Closed in Wyoming?

Wyoming residents may obtain case status information from bankruptcy records. Interested parties may request bankruptcy records online through PACER. The PACER website is an online repository for federal court records. Requesting parties may get case status information or search full bankruptcy records through the system. The cost of access is $0.10 per page; however, there is a $3 or 30 pages cap for each document. If a user does not accrue more than $30 in a quarter, the fees will be waived.

Interested parties may also get case status information through the toll-free VCIS service. Users may call (866) 222-8029 and follow the voice prompts to obtain case status information. The VCIS is available 24/7. Users must provide the debtor’s name and case number to access bankruptcy records through VCIS.

Public access terminals are available at the Wyoming Bankruptcy Court locations. Users may search case status and other bankruptcy information using the public access terminals. Search is free, but users must pay $0.10 for every printed page.

Can a Bankruptcy Be Expunged in Wyoming?

The federal bankruptcy rules and procedures provide for sealing but not the expungement of bankruptcy records. While it is possible to restrict public access to bankruptcy records, it is unclear from the federal bankruptcy code whether a bankruptcy record can be expunged. Wyoming record holders interested in sealing bankruptcy records may file a petition with the bankruptcy court. If a judge grants the petition, the record will no longer be accessible to the public.

Understanding Bankruptcy in Wyoming

Bankruptcy is a legal process that enables individuals and organizations to clear up debt or create a repayment plan to settle creditors. The United States Bankruptcy Court is responsible for overseeing all bankruptcy legal proceedings in the state of Wyoming as stated in the United States Code, Title 11. Title 11 is also known as the United States Bankruptcy Code. Interested persons or businesses who wish to file for bankruptcy must first complete a credit counseling session. The certificate from the credit counseling session is then filed alongside the bankruptcy petition. A bankruptcy process begins when an individual or organization files a bankruptcy petition at the United States Bankruptcy Court to seek complete or partial debt relief. Debtors may file for different bankruptcy types depending on their eligible status. Examples of such bankruptcy types include Chapter 7, Chapter 9, Chapter 11, Chapter 12, Chapter 13, and Chapter 15.

Debtors in the District of Wyoming may file for bankruptcy in Cheyenne and Casper. Below are the following United States Bankruptcy Court in the respective locations:

Cheyenne
Physical Address:
United State Bankruptcy Court
District of Wyoming
2120 Capitol Avenue
6th Floor
Cheyenne, WY 82001
Phone: (307) 433-2200

Mailing Address:
United State Bankruptcy Court
District of Wyoming
2120 Capitol Avenue
6th Floor
Cheyenne, WY 82001
Lobby Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Casper
Physical Address:
United State Bankruptcy Court
District of Wyoming
111 South Wolcott
Casper, WY 82601
Phone: (307) 433-2200

Mailing Address:
United State Bankruptcy Court
District of Wyoming
2120 Capitol Avenue
Suite 6004
Cheyenne, WY 82001

Bankruptcy records are public records that contain the debtor’s financial report and other important information. Such information may include:

• A list of properties and assets owned by the debtor.
• The source of income of the debtor (amount inclusive).
• The frequency of the debtor’s earnings.
• A list that contains names of creditors, the amount owed, and the nature of claims.
• A breakdown of the debtor’s monthly spendings.

What is the Downside of Filing for Bankruptcy in Wyoming?

The disadvantages of filing for bankruptcy in Wyoming may include some of the following:

• It will affect the credit score of the debtor.
• It will make it difficult for debtors to take new loans.
• It does not erase all debts. Tax debts and student loans are examples of debts that may not be erased.
• It may result in loss of properties and assets not protected by exemptions.

Nevertheless, there are a couple of benefits of filing for bankruptcy in Wyoming. Some of the benefits include:

• A fresh start opportunity for debtors whose debts are discharged.
• File for bankruptcy triggers an automatic stay that protects debtors from foreclosures, wage garnishment, etc.
• Debtors gain access to financial counseling.
• Filing for bankruptcy protects a debtor from any form of contact from creditors.

What is Chapter 11 Bankruptcy in Wyoming?

In Wyoming, Chapter 11 bankruptcy is the type of bankruptcy that creates an opportunity for organizations in debt to develop a repayment method. This type of bankruptcy is also known as reorganization bankruptcy because it allows such businesses to restructure rather than shut down. Aside from organizations, individuals debtors are also eligible to file for a Chapter 11.

Debtors who file for a Chapter 11 can take more loans to run their businesses. Also, this type of bankruptcy allows debtors to bargain for lower interest rates on initial loans. Filing for a Chapter 11 means the bankruptcy record may last ten years on the debtor’s credit report.

What is Chapter 7 Bankruptcy in Wyoming?

Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Wyoming is the type of bankruptcy that allows debtors to use the proceeds of their assets and properties to repay creditors. Therefore, Chapter 7 bankruptcy is also known as Liquidation bankruptcy. Under Chapter 7, a trustee is appointed by the bankruptcy court to oversee the sales of the debtor’s non-exempt assets and properties. Debtors who file for Chapter 7 do not have options for a repayment plan.

Individuals, organizations, and partnerships are examples of those eligible to file for Chapter 7.

Debtors filing for this type of bankruptcy are eligible for debt discharges such as medical bills, income tax debts, personal loans, automobile loans, mortgage loans, etc. However, debts such as court fees and penalties, personal injury debts, student loans, alimony are not dischargeable.

Before filing for Chapter 7, interested parties are to undergo a means test to determine their eligibility. The debtor's expenses, secured and unsecured debts, income are checked and compared with the state's median income. Debtors who are below the state’s median income may file for Chapter 7.

What is Chapter 13 Bankruptcy in Wyoming?

Chapter 13 bankruptcy in Wyoming is the type of bankruptcy, similar to Chapter 11, that allows debtors to reorganize their debts by creating a repayment plan. However, Chapter 13 is only available to individuals with regular income. Therefore, it is called the Wage Earner Plan. Filing for Chapter 13 allows interested individuals to retain control of their properties and assets. Under Chapter 13, the repayment plan is often between 3 to 5 years.

According to the bankruptcy code 11 U.S.C. § 109(e), interested persons who wish to file for Chapter 13 may do so as long as their unsecured debts and secured debts are less than $250,000 and $750,000 respectively. The amount for the secured and unsecured debts are not static, they are periodically updated in accordance with the consumer price index.

Under Chapter 13 bankruptcy, co-signers to debt may be protected from repaying the debt. Also, debtors are not required to contact the creditors as payments are made to the appointed trustee. The trustee is trusted with the distribution to creditors. Debtors who file for Chapter 13 may have the bankruptcy report in their credit record for 7 years.

What is the Difference Between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 Bankruptcy in Wyoming?

The differences between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy in Wyoming include some of the following:

• Under Chapter 7, both individuals and organizations are eligible to file for bankruptcy. While Chapter 13 is only available to individuals with stable income.
• Chapter 7 liquidates a debtor's non-exempt properties and assets to repay debts owed. However, Chapter 13 provides a repayment option for debts to be settled.
• Chapter 7 bankruptcy allows debtors to file for bankruptcy regardless of the amount owed, while there is a limit to the secured and unsecured debts for Chapter 13.

What is Bankruptcy Protection in Wyoming?

Bankruptcy protection is the term that describes the legal proceedings taken by the bankruptcy court to prevent creditors from overtaking a debtor's property or assets. The process is also called an Automatic Stay. The automatic stay is immediately triggered once a debtor files for bankruptcy in Wyoming. The bankruptcy court issues a notice of automatic stay to creditors to stop all forms of collections, lawsuits, foreclosures, repossessions, or legal proceedings. Also, a creditor is not allowed to contact a debtor once a bankruptcy is filed.

What are Wyoming Bankruptcy Exemptions?

Wyoming bankruptcy exemptions are state laws that protect the debtor's property and assets from creditors. Individuals who file for bankruptcy in Wyoming may use any of the state's exemptions as provided in its statute. The state of Wyoming does not allow the use of Federal bankruptcy exemptions. For instance, individuals who file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy can protect their home properties using the homestead exemption. Bankruptcy exemptions typically allow the protection of day-to-day items or properties capped at certain values. Other examples of Wyoming bankruptcy exemptions include:

• Wyoming Motor Vehicle Exemption § 1-20-106(a)(iv)
• Wyoming Tool of the Trade Exemption § 1-20-106(b)
• Exemption of wages for National Guard members § 19-9-401
• Pension exemption for public employees § 9-3-426

What are the Other Types of Bankruptcy in Wyoming?

Chapter 9, Chapter 12, and Chapter 15 are other types of bankruptcy available in Wyoming. Individuals and organizations may file for these types of bankruptcy as opposed to the common types - Chapter 7, Chapter 11, and Chapter 13. For instance, Chapter 9 bankruptcy provides reorganization for cities, counties, and towns to develop a repayment plan for their debts. Chapter 9 is known as Municipal Bankruptcy that also covers taxing districts, villages, school districts, and municipal utilities. Under Chapter 9, reorganization of debts allows the municipal to negotiate repayments plans by:

• Extending its debts maturity date
• Bargaining lower principal or interest rate
• Obtain a new loan to refinance the debt

Eligible persons can also file for Chapter 12 bankruptcy in Wyoming. Chapter 12 bankruptcy is a type of bankruptcy designed for family farmers and family fishermen with regular income to develop a repayment plan for their debts. Instead of liquidating their assets, debtors can make installment payments to creditors between 3 to 5 years.

Chapter 15, on the other hand, is a type of bankruptcy that allows foreign debtors to file for bankruptcy in the United States. The Chapter was added to the Bankruptcy Code in 2005. Foreign individuals or organizations with properties and assets in the United States and other countries may file for Chapter 15 bankruptcy. However, Chapter 15 is usually a secondary bankruptcy process while the primary process takes place in the debtor’s home country.

How Much Does It Cost to File Bankruptcy in Wyoming?

The cost of filing bankruptcy in Wyoming can vary depending on the type of bankruptcy being filed and the specific circumstances. The average cost for an individual filing Chapter 7 bankruptcy is typically between $300-$1300, while the average cost for a couple of filing together may be less. Costs may also include attorney fees, court costs, and other miscellaneous expenses associated with the process. Additionally, for persons who choose to file through a private bankruptcy attorney, their fees may be higher than those charged by nonprofit legal services providers.