How to Find Your Court
Bankruptcy courts are organized by federal judicial district. Each state has at least one district, and larger states have multiple districts (e.g., Eastern District of Missouri, Western District of Missouri). You file in the district where you have lived for the greater part of the last 180 days.
Court Finder
The federal judiciary maintains a court finder at uscourts.gov. Enter your zip code to find your district. Each court has its own local rules, forms, and procedures - check the court's website for specific requirements.
What to Expect
Most bankruptcy courts allow electronic filing through CM/ECF. Pro se filers may need to file in person at the clerk's office. Bring your petition, all schedules, the means test form, your credit counseling certificate, and the filing fee (or fee waiver/installment application). The clerk will assign a case number and you will receive notice of your 341 meeting date.
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