Search Modoc County Bankruptcy Cases

Modoc County bankruptcy records are handled by the Eastern District of California Bankruptcy Court. This remote county in California's far northeastern corner has fewer than 9,000 residents. Alturas serves as the county seat. The Sacramento courthouse processes all Modoc County bankruptcy filings. Searching these records online through PACER is the most practical option given the distance to court. This page explains how Modoc County residents can access bankruptcy case information, file for debt relief, and find legal resources.

Modoc County Bankruptcy Court Details

The Eastern District of California Bankruptcy Court handles all Modoc County bankruptcy cases. The main courthouse is in Sacramento at 501 I Street, Suite 3-200. This is the closest court location for Modoc County residents, though it is about 200 miles from Alturas. Call (916) 930-4400 to reach the clerk's office.

Modoc County is one of California's least populated counties. Very few bankruptcy cases originate here each year. The Eastern District covers 34 counties in total, and Modoc sits at the northern edge of this territory. Despite the low volume, the court provides full services to Modoc County residents.

Court hours run Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 4 PM. Electronic filing through CM/ECF is available for attorneys. Self-represented filers often submit documents by mail given the long distance to Sacramento. The court accepts mailed filings from Modoc County residents.

Search Modoc County Bankruptcy Records Online

PACER provides the best way to search Modoc County bankruptcy records. This federal system covers all U.S. bankruptcy courts. Register for free at pacer.uscourts.gov. The fee is 10 cents per page capped at $3 per document. Users with quarterly usage under $30 pay nothing.

Log into PACER and select the Eastern District of California. Enter a name or case number. The search returns all matching records including Modoc County cases. View dockets, filed documents, and case status. Bankruptcy petitions, schedules, and court orders are available.

The Voice Case Information System offers free phone access. Dial (866) 222-8029 at any time. Enter a case number or name to hear basic information. This automated system works around the clock and costs nothing to use.

In-person access requires traveling to Sacramento. Public terminals at the courthouse let you search for free. Given the distance from Modoc County, online access through PACER is more practical for most residents.

Note: Online searches are especially valuable for Modoc County residents given the remote location.

Filing Bankruptcy in Modoc County

Modoc County residents file bankruptcy through the Sacramento court. You can hire a lawyer or file on your own. Self-filing is called "pro se." The same forms and rules apply regardless of which path you choose.

The Chapter 7 filing fee is $338. Chapter 13 costs $313. These are federal court fees. Low-income filers may qualify for a waiver or installment plan. Ask the clerk about options when filing your case. Many Modoc County residents with limited income qualify for fee reductions.

Credit counseling is required before filing. Federal law mandates an approved course within 180 days of your filing date. Online courses are convenient for remote areas like Modoc County. A second course is needed before your discharge. The U.S. Trustee website lists approved providers.

Federal bankruptcy forms are available at uscourts.gov. Complete the voluntary petition and schedules of assets, debts, income, and expenses. The means test determines Chapter 7 eligibility. Your documents become part of the public Modoc County bankruptcy record once filed.

California Exemptions for Modoc County Filers

California provides two exemption systems. Pick one. Mixing is not allowed. System 1 works better for homeowners. System 2 suits renters and those with valuable personal property.

System 1 under CCP 704 protects home equity up to $722,507. Modoc County property values are among the lowest in California. Most homeowners can protect their entire equity under either system. The exemption also covers vehicles, tools of trade, and retirement accounts.

System 2 under CCP Section 703.140 offers a smaller homestead but includes a wildcard up to $38,700. Apply the wildcard to any property. Vehicles, farm equipment, livestock, and bank accounts qualify. Many Modoc County residents find System 2 more useful given lower property values.

Your exemption choice shows in your bankruptcy records. Creditors can challenge claims they believe are improper. Talk with a lawyer about which system fits your situation.

Types of Modoc County Bankruptcy Cases

Chapter 7 is the most common bankruptcy type. It eliminates most debts in a few months. Credit cards, medical bills, and personal loans qualify. About 78% of California filers choose Chapter 7. You keep property protected by exemptions.

Chapter 13 sets up a payment plan over three to five years. This helps catch up on mortgages or vehicle loans. You need regular income to make monthly payments. Some Modoc County residents prefer Chapter 13 to save their homes.

Chapter 12 serves family farmers and ranchers. Modoc County has ranches and agricultural operations. This chapter offers flexible rules for farm income and seasonal payments. It may apply to qualifying local residents.

Each type generates different records. Chapter 7 cases are usually smaller. Chapter 13 includes payment plans and progress reports. All Modoc County bankruptcy records are searchable through PACER.

Legal Help for Modoc County Bankruptcy

Finding local bankruptcy attorneys in Modoc County is difficult. Very few lawyers practice here. Most residents work with attorneys from Redding, Chico, or Sacramento. Phone and video consultations bridge the distance.

Legal Services of Northern California provides free help to qualifying residents. Income limits apply. They assist with bankruptcy and other civil matters. Contact them to check if you qualify for assistance.

Self-help resources are available online. The Eastern District court website has local rules and guides. Federal forms are free at uscourts.gov. Many Modoc County residents file successfully without an attorney.

Verify any lawyer before hiring. The California State Bar website shows license status and disciplinary history. This protects you from unlicensed practitioners.

Nearby Counties

These counties border Modoc County in the Eastern District.