Chapter 7 of the Bankruptcy Code provides for ‘liquidation,’ i.e., the sale of a debtor’s nonexempt property and the distribution of the proceeds to creditors.  Filing for Chapter 7 protection is a significant step which should be discussed in detail with a bankruptcy attorney.  In considering a Chapter 7 filing, debtors should be aware that there are several alternatives to Chapter 7 relief. For example, debtors who are engaged in business, including corporations, partnerships, and sole proprietorships, may prefer to remain in business and avoid liquidation. Such debtors should consider filing a petition under Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code. Under Chapter 11, the debtor may seek an adjustment of debts, either by reducing the debt or by extending the time for repayment, or may seek a more comprehensive reorganization. Sole proprietorships may also be eligible for relief under Chapter 13 of the Bankruptcy Code.

In addition, individual debtors who have regular income may seek an adjustment of debts under Chapter 13 of the Bankruptcy Code. A particular advantage of Chapter 13 is that it provides individual debtors with an opportunity to save their homes from foreclosure by allowing them to ‘catch up’ past due payments through a payment plan. Moreover, the court may dismiss a Chapter 7 case filed by an individual whose debts are primarily consumer rather than business debts if the court finds that the granting of relief would be an abuse of Chapter 7. 11 U.S.C.