When you file bankruptcy there is an injunction issued by the court on the day you file preventing the creditors from coming after you. You will have to go to a creditor's meeting and provide certain documents to the bankruptcy trustee. Chapter 7s take about 5 months and Chapter 13s depend on the duration of the Plan. If you are going to file do not transfer property to others, take cash advances or incur large debt just before filing. Disclose to your attorney all debts and all assets.
Bankruptcy is federal law.
You have to be a 6 month resident. Make sure you have a copy of your tax return for the last year. The law may change very soon to be less favorable to debtors. Congress has come up with a creditor-oriented bill which may make it more difficult to get a fresh start.