If you’ve logged into PACER to check your bankruptcy case and immediately felt overwhelmed — you’re not alone.
The docket (that long list of filings in your case) can look intimidating. The wording is formal. Some entries sound scary. And it’s not always clear what actually matters.
Here are the 10 most common PACER entries clients see — explained in plain English.
1. Voluntary Petition
This is the document that officially starts your bankruptcy case.
It tells the court:
- Who you are
- Which chapter you’re filing (Chapter 7 or Chapter 13)
- Basic identifying information
If you see this filed — your case has officially begun.
2. Schedules A/B through J
These are your detailed financial disclosures.
They list:
- Assets
- Debts
- Income
- Expenses
- Contracts and leases
They can look long and complicated, but they’re simply your financial snapshot.
3. Statement of Financial Affairs (SOFA)
Despite the fancy name, this document just answers background questions such as:
- Recent income
- Lawsuits
- Property transfers
- Business interests
It helps the trustee understand your financial history.
4. 341 Meeting Notice (Notice of Meeting of Creditors)
This is very important.
It tells you:
- The date
- The time
- Whether it’s virtual or in person
This is your required meeting with the trustee. It is not held in a courtroom, and a judge is not present.
5. Trustee’s Report of No Distribution (Chapter 7)
If you see this in a Chapter 7 case — this is good news.
It means:
- The trustee does not intend to sell any assets
- Creditors will not receive money from asset liquidation
This is commonly called a “no asset” case.
6. Motion for Relief from Stay
This one sounds dramatic.
The “automatic stay” stops creditors from collecting once you file bankruptcy. A motion for relief from stay means a creditor is asking the court for permission to proceed — usually to:
- Repossess a vehicle
- Foreclose on a home
This does not automatically mean you’re losing property. It means the creditor is requesting permission, and it may be resolved in several ways.
Always contact your attorney immediately if you see this.
7. Notice of Deficiency
This typically means:
- A document was missing
- A form needs correction
- Something procedural needs to be updated
It does not usually mean your case is in serious trouble. It’s often administrative.
8. Order Confirming Plan (Chapter 13)
This is a big one in Chapter 13.
It means:
- The court approved your repayment plan
- Your monthly trustee payment is now officially set
Once confirmed, you’re operating under a court-approved structure.
9. Discharge Order
This is the goal.
In Chapter 7, it usually comes a few months after filing.
In Chapter 13, it comes after you complete your plan.
This order:
- Eliminates qualifying debts
- Permanently prohibits creditors from collecting
This is your fresh start document.
10. Final Decree / Case Closed
This simply means:
- The administrative side of your case is finished
- The court has closed the file
Your discharge typically happens before this entry.
A Quick Reality Check About PACER
PACER language often sounds worse than it is.
Terms like:
- “Motion”
- “Order”
- “Notice”
- “Deficiency”
- “Dismissal”
Are part of normal court procedure.
You are not expected to interpret these entries on your own. That’s your attorney’s job.
When Should You Actually Worry?
Contact your attorney right away if you see:
- Motion to Dismiss
- Motion for Relief from Stay
- Objection to Exemptions
- Objection to Discharge
- Objection to Plan (Chapter 13)
Everything else is often routine.
Final Thought
PACER is a transparency tool — not a stress test.
It gives you access to your case, but it doesn’t replace legal guidance.
If you ever log in and think, “This looks bad,” pause before panicking. Many entries are simply procedural steps in a system that runs on formal language.
When in doubt, ask.
That’s what we’re here for.
