As of October 2005 a manditory credit counseling directive was issued by the US Dept of Justice basically stating that prior to filing a Chapter 7 or 13 personal bankruptcy the individual must be counselled by a certified counsellor. This initiative is a good thing because it will guide and direct and individual to better understand the process and allow a Means Assessment to see all of the individuals options in being able to fullfill the terms of the particular bankruptcy. For more information brouse our Bankruptcy America.com FAQ page.