What Is a 2004 Examination in Bankruptcy?

Learn what a 2004 bankruptcy examination is, who can request one, and what type of information is typically sought in one.

By , Attorney · Case Western Reserve University School of Law

While your bankruptcy case is pending, any person or entity with an interest in your bankruptcy can request an opportunity to investigate matters related to your bankruptcy using a 2004 examination. This article explains what a 2004 exam is and who can use it.

(Learn more about the procedures when you file for bankruptcy.)

What Is a 2004 Examination?

Rule 2004 of the Federal Rules of Bankruptcy Procedure allows any "interested person" to require someone else to testify and produce documents on matters related to your bankruptcy. The 2004 Exam can cover a broad range of issues, including:

  • your actions, conduct or property
  • your debts and financial condition
  • any issue that relates to your bankruptcy assets or Chapter 13 plan, and
  • any matter that affects your right to a discharge.

The 2004 exam is not like a 341 meeting of creditors. It is more formal and involves a more detailed investigation of issues related to your bankruptcy. It is similar to a deposition, sometimes requiring the production of documents. However, unlike a deposition, the witness who is the subject of a 2004 exam is not always entitled to attorney representation or cross-examination, and the right to object to questions is limited.

Who Uses the 2004 Exam?

"Any party in interest" can request a 2004 Exam. That can include:

Most commonly, the trustee or a creditor requests the 2004 Exam.

How Is a 2004 Exam Used?

A 2004 exam has a variety of uses. The scope of a 2004 exam is quite broad, and for that reason is sometimes referred to as a "fishing expedition." How the 2004 exam is used will often depend on the person requesting it.

By the Trustee

Most often, a trustee will request the 2004 Exam to investigate:

  • the location of your assets
  • your financial transactions
  • the accuracy of your bankruptcy schedules and other papers, and
  • whether you committed fraud.

By a Creditor

Creditors may also request a 2004 Exam to:

  • find property that is not part of the bankruptcy estate, or
  • look for facts that may support a nondischargeability complaint, such as whether you lied on a credit application or racked up credit card purchases shortly before filing bankruptcy.

By You

You may find a 2004 exam to be beneficial, too. For example, you can use it to explore the basis of a creditor's potential nondischargeability claim.

2004 Exam Limits

A 2004 exam is not automatic. The person has to request it by filing a motion with the bankruptcy court and must have "just cause" (meaning, a good reason related to that person's claim) for requesting it. A creditor cannot use a 2004 Exam simply to harass or abuse you. If the court grants the motion, it will then issue an order, directing you or another witness to appear for questioning at a certain date and time.

A 2004 exam is limited to the main bankruptcy proceeding only. If an adversary proceeding, such as a nondischargeablity complaint, has been filed, then a 2004 Exam can no longer be used to get information from the people involved in that proceeding. Instead, the parties must resort to the normal federal discovery rules.

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