Welcome!
Hi, I’m Damon Duncan, and if you’re on this page, you’re getting ready for your Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 creditors’ meeting. I know this can feel stressful, especially if you’ve never used Zoom before—but you’re in the right place.
We’ve helped thousands of clients through this exact meeting. This guide walks you through everything, with short GIFs showing you each step. Take 10 minutes to follow the instructions and you’ll be 100% ready.
Step 1: Understand the Waiting Room
When you join the meeting, you’ll first be directed to a Zoom waiting room. This is normal. It just means the trustee hasn’t let you in yet.
▶️ Watch: What the Zoom Waiting Room Looks Like
Tips:
-
Do not leave the meeting. Just wait.
-
Double-check your video, mic, and name while you’re in the waiting room.
Step 2: Change Your Name in Zoom
You must appear under your full legal name (e.g., John A. Smith) so the trustee knows who you are.
💻 On a Computer
▶️ Watch: Rename Yourself in Zoom (Computer)
📱 On a Phone
▶️ Watch: Rename Yourself in Zoom (Phone)
Why it matters: Incorrect names (like “iPhone” or nicknames) can delay or cancel your meeting.
Step 3: Turn Your Video On
Your camera must be on so the trustee can see and verify your identity.
▶️ Watch: How to Start Your Video (Computer)
Best Practices:
-
Sit in a quiet, well-lit area.
-
Avoid sitting on your bed or couch.
-
Wear something you’d wear to court.
Step 4: Rotate Your Phone
If you’re on a mobile phone, make sure to turn it sideways (landscape mode) before the meeting starts.
▶️ Watch: Rotate Your Phone for Zoom
Why?
-
The trustee can see your full face clearly.
-
It looks much more professional.
-
It prevents the “awkward vertical” look.
Step 5: Mute and Unmute Your Microphone
Keeping your microphone muted when you’re not speaking helps the meeting run smoothly. Whether you’re using a computer or your phone, it’s easy to control your audio.
💻 On a Computer
▶️ Watch: Mute/Unmute on Zoom (Computer)
How to Mute:
-
Look in the bottom-left corner of Zoom.
-
Click the microphone icon to mute or unmute yourself.
-
If you see a red slash, you’re muted.
-
You can also press and hold the spacebar to temporarily unmute yourself while talking.
📱 On a Mobile Device
▶️ Watch: Mute/Unmute on Zoom (Phone)
How to Mute:
-
Tap the screen to reveal the Zoom menu.
-
Find the microphone icon (usually top or bottom corner).
-
Tap once to mute (you’ll see a red slash).
-
Tap again to unmute when it’s your turn to speak.
Best Practice:
-
Stay muted unless you’re directly asked a question.
-
Background noise (TVs, kids, fans) can interrupt the meeting—even if you don’t notice it.
Want to Practice First?
No problem! Zoom offers a free test meeting so you can try everything out.
🔗 Join a Zoom test meeting to check your mic, camera, and name.
What Happens During the Creditors’ Meeting?
-
The trustee will admit you from the waiting room.
-
You’ll be asked to show your photo ID on camera.
-
The trustee may ask basic questions about your bankruptcy forms (we’ll be there with you).
-
Most meetings last about 5–10 minutes.
-
That’s it—you’re done!
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Do I need to show my ID? | Yes, have it ready to hold up to the camera. |
| Can I use my phone? | Yes. Just rotate it sideways and follow this guide. |
| What if I miss the meeting? | Call us immediately. We’ll try to reschedule, but it can delay your case. |
| Can someone else be in the room? | No. It should be private and quiet. |
| Do I need to download Zoom? | Yes. Install it from zoom.us/download or your app store. |
| What if I don’t have the Zoom link? | Check your email or contact our office. We’ll send it again. |
| What should my Zoom name be? | Your full legal name—nothing else. |
| Can I eat, smoke, or vape? | No. Treat it like you’re in a courtroom. |
| Can I join from work or a car? | Only if it’s quiet, private, and you can appear on camera without interruption. |
| What if I can’t rename myself? | Ask us ahead of time or message the host in Zoom for help. |
Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This
Just follow these steps, take a deep breath, and you’ll do great.
If you have any questions at all, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to guide you through every step of the process.
📞 Visit DuncanLawOnline.com or call your local office.
Share this entry