Bankruptcy is a legal process available for those who are incapable of repaying their financial debt or obligations. When filing for bankruptcy, the person or business can be relieved of some, or even all, of their debt, while also affording protection from creditors and debt. Bankruptcy can be a complex process, which the average person isn't equipped to handle alone.  There are also requirements that must be met before filing for bankruptcy, like demonstrating that you'll be able to repay your debts, as well as complete credit counselling.  The procedural aspects of the bankruptcy process are both ruled by the Federal Rules of Bankruptcy Procedure and the local rules of bankruptcy courts.  Typically, the debtor's appearance before a bankruptcy judge is very limited, and sometimes completely avoided if there are no complications or objections.