In chapter 7 cases, the debtor does not have an absolute right to a discharge.
Neither a Chapter 7 nor a Chapter 13 discharge affects future child or spousal support obligations. Liquidation under a Chapter 7 filing is the most common form of bankruptcy. There are 18 categories of debt excepted from discharge under chapters 7, 11, and 12. The chapter of the Bankruptcy Code providing for adjustment of debts of an individual with regular income. Discharge is the bankruptcy term for wiping out many of the debtor's remaining debts at the conclusion of the bankruptcy proceeding.
Therefore, debtors should consult competent legal counsel prior to filing regarding the scope of the chapter 13 discharge. In other words, even at the conclusion of the bankruptcy proceeding, these on-going obligations remain. The bankruptcy law regarding the scope of the chapter 13 discharge is complex and has recently undergone major changes. If the Trustee or debtor in possession, in many chapter 11 cases rejects a contract, the debtor's bankruptcy estate is subject for ordinary contract law damages; but the damage obligation is generally treated as an unsecured claim. In chapter 7 cases, the debtor does not have an absolute right to a discharge. Chapter 9 is a form of reorganization, not liquidation.
Debts not dischargeable in a previous bankruptcy because of the debtor's fraud. Certain types of property are exempt, however, which means that the debtor can keep them. The timing of the discharge varies, depending on the chapter under which the case is filed.