BEST CASE BANKRUPTCY Getting Started Guide

Transcription

1 BEST CASE BANKRUPTCY Getting Started Guide This quick-start guide helps you begin using Best Case Bankruptcy in a flash. With step-by-step instructions for installation and registration, an introduction to using your software and an explanation of customer support and training, this guide will provide you a comprehensive overview of your Best Case Bankruptcy purchase. TABLE OF CONTENTS Welcome to the Best Case Community...2 Installation and Registration...3 Overview of Best Case Bankruptcy Customer Support...6 Training Resources...7 Workflow Efficiency Tools Quick-Start Guide...12

2 Welcome to the Best Case Community Thank you for selecting the industry-leading bankruptcy software, Best Case Bankruptcy that helps you prepare and file bankruptcy petitions. Whether you are new to bankruptcy or switching software providers, we know you will be satisfied with your purchase. Best Case Bankruptcy was specifically developed with the bankruptcy practitioner in mind and delivers the fastest and most reliable electronic filing system, the smartest means test calculator and the most intuitive and easy-to-use interface. Customer Benefits Your initial purchase of Best Case Bankruptcy includes one-year of maintenance, which gives you access to a wide-array of services that assist you in the bankruptcy process. Enjoy the ease of electronic filing with OneTouch, feel confident that you re filing with the most-recent forms and access friendly technical support. Read on to explore in detail the benefits you receive as a customer. Free Updates Frequent Best Case releases include new and revised federal and local forms, revised figures including Census Bureau and IRS data, updates to exemption statutes and Chapter 13 plans, plus feature enhancements. Superior Support and Services Get your questions answered instantly from friendly Best Case technical experts. Call or help@bestcase.com, Monday Friday, 8:00 a.m. 5:30 p.m. CT. Free Training Resources Maximize your Best Case investment and gain insights into key features with online seminars, web tutorials and live in-person workshops. OneTouch E-Filing The easiest and fastest way to file! In a few clicks, transmit a client s complete or emergency petition to the Court s website with the OneTouch electronic filing system. Customer Publications Exclusive subscriptions to print and online publications that keep you up-to-date with Best Case and industry happenings, including Best Case Scenarios the customer magazine and Best Case Spotlight, a bimonthly e-newsletter. Access to Workflow Tools Streamline the bankruptcy process with MyCaseInfo, MyECFMail, Credit Report Import and the Client Course Manager. Exclusive Events Get invitations to exclusive events like the Best Case Customer Reception held at the annual NACBA convention. Join your peers at stylish locales for complimentary cocktails and hors d oeuvres. Community Feedback As a customer you have an active voice. We rely on user feedback to drive our development. We are proud to say we have received and incorporated many great customer requests. Don t let your One-Year Maintenance Plan lapse! At the end of your first year, you have the option of renewing the Maintenance Plan for an annual fee. This provides continued access to software updates, OneTouch filing and much more. 60-Day Money-Back Guarantee Your order is absolutely risk-free. If you re not 100% satisfied with Best Case Bankruptcy, simply return the CD and materials within 60 days of your purchase date for a complete refund. 2 Getting Started with Best Case Bankruptcy

3 Getting Started with Best Case Bankruptcy Installation Installing Best Case Bankruptcy is a quick and easy process. If you ve already downloaded the demo version of Best Case, you can skip to Registration. Install Best Case on the desktop 1. Insert the Best Case CD and click INSTALL NOW or visit and click DOWNLOAD 2. Follow the instructions in the Installation Wizard. Best Case automatically saves to the C: DRIVE in a new \BESTCASE subfolder Install Best Case on a network 1. Insert the Best Case CD and click INSTALL NOW or visit and click DOWNLOAD 2. Follow the instructions in the Installation Wizard but replace your network drive letter for the C: drive in the destination directory box 3. From each workstation, create a shortcut from the desktop that points to the BESTCASE\WINBFS.EXE file on your network drive. For more detailed information, visit NOTE: All users running Best Case should be granted full rights to the \BESTCASE directory and all of its subdirectories. Registration To register/unlock your software To unlock Best Case Bankruptcy with your unique registration information, open Best Case, click the ABOUT button in the top right corner, then click UPGRADE. Enter the unlock information exactly as it appears on the label located on the CD or in the you received. System Requirements 128 MB of RAM 60 MB of free space Windows 7, Vista or XP A PC compatible computer with a Pentium -class III (or equivalent) processor An Intel Core 2 Duo Macintosh with Boot Camp or Parallels Desktop Additional Requirements Internet Explorer 9.0, 8.0 or 7.0 with a high speed internet connection for electronic filing For BestScan : Scanners must have a TWAIN driver Word processing software is not required to print the Official Federal Forms and Schedules but it is required for the Additional Documents Library Safeguard your registration codes Your serial number and registration/unlock codes can only be used by your law firm. Your license agreement strictly prohibits you from giving unlicensed users your Best Case Bankruptcy CD, registration/unlock codes and any documentation. The Setup Wizard Once Best Case has been launched, the Setup Wizard prompts you to complete basic information about your law firm, attorneys, jurisdictions, the attorney compensation statement and more. Note: Access the Wizard at anytime from the Setup Menu. Complete the Wizard before you begin your first case, as it helps to reduce redundant data entry and sets firm preferences and data-entry shortcuts for all cases you prepare. Best Case, LLC

4 Overview of Best Case Bankruptcy Guidelines for Preparing a Petition Best Case Bankruptcy is organized by a series of screens that prompt you to provide information about your client in order to create and file an electronic petition. Read on for an overview of the important steps in the process. 1 Create 2 Enter Create a new client Click NEW to create a client file. All files are housed in the Client List Window which gives attorneys a global view of all cases including case status and filing type. DOUBLE CLICK ON THE DESIRED CLIENT FILE to access the Forms and Schedules Menu and begin preparing the petition. Enter case data The Forms and Schedules Menu contains all federal court-required documents for a particular case. They are organized in the specified order of completion starting with the Voluntary Petition. DOUBLE CLICK ON VOLUNTARY PETITION to open to the entry screen and begin entering case data. Client List Window: Client management features in Best Case make it easy to access files. Filter client files with the drop down menu to easily view and retrieve specific cases. Forms and Schedules Menu: Open to edit and complete a specific Form or Schedule. The Basics of Best Case Online Seminar Ideal for new users, this free seminar guides users through preparing a petition to electronically filing a case. Register today: 4 Getting Started with Best Case Bankruptcy

5 Best Case Bankruptcy Expands with Your Firm Expand your license at anytime to begin filing additional chapters or upgrade to a Multi-User License to allow simultaneous access over a network. It s easy to upgrade at anytime. % Call to discuss your options. 3 Complete 4 File Complete the means test DOUBLE CLICK FORM 22 to access the Best Case Means Test Calculator. Enter the required data, calculate current monthly income and run various means test scenarios for a client. Based on the data entered, the Means Test Calculator determines if a Presumption of Abuse exists and if necessary, prompts you to enter additional information. For step-by-step instructions refer to the Means Test guide included in this package or download at Electronically file with OneTouch In just a few clicks, files are created in the proper format and uploaded to the Court s website. Once submitted, a confirmation is sent with a receipt and case number. It s that simple. For detailed instructions, refer to the Electronic Case Filing guide included in this package or download at Form 22: Simplify the means test with easy on-screen instructions, IRS tables and running tallies for CMI and presumption of abuse. Electronic Case Filing: Click the OneTouch Case Filing button and watch as Best Case automatically files the case on the Court s website. See page 8 for workflow tools that assist you in the bankruptcy process. Best Case, LLC

6 Customer Support Helpful Resources and Services Get up and running quickly with a variety of customer support resources including technical support documentation, friendly phone support and the User s Guide. Training resources help keep you current with new features, teach advanced functionalities and provide insight into tools that can save you valuable data entry time. Toll-free Technical Support Get your questions answered from friendly Best Case experts, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM CT Call: Support Your will be promptly answered during business hours by a member of our technical staff. Be sure to include your firm name and serial number. help@bestcase.com Best Case User s Guide Step-by-step technical instructions on all aspects of Best Case Bankruptcy, including installation, case preparation, electronic case filing, case management and common questions and troubleshooting. Download: Access the Internal Help File Context-sensitive help is available throughout the program. Instantly access step-by-step instructions on a variety of topics with a click of a button within Best Case. PRESS F1, OR CLICK THE HELP BUTTON. Web Resources Bookmark the following pages: Get access to helpful instructional guides, online calculators and helpful bankruptcy websites, including links to Chapter 13 Trustees, Bankruptcy Clerks and State Bar Associations. Review what s new in Best Case, including the latest form changes, enhancements and more. Search by release date or state. 6 Getting Started with Best Case Bankruptcy

7 Training Resources The Basics of Best Case Online Seminar Get started here! Explore Best Case right from your desktop. Created for new users, this seminar guides you through preparing a petition to electronically filing a case. Join a Best Case expert for a 45-minute presentation and discover how to: Create a new client file Complete schedules and forms and see how properties, liens and exemptions are linked Use BestScan to scan and attach documents Apply the means test provisions with the Best Case Means Test Calculator File electronically using the ECF Wizard and OneTouch Register online: Advanced Online Seminars Once the basics are mastered, get focused online training on more advanced topics, including: Means Test Calculator MyCaseInfo Chapter 13 Plan ECF in-depth features MyECFMail Register online: Web Tutorials Watch short, pre-recorded videos that walk you step-by-step through tasks necessary for almost every bankruptcy case. In three minutes or less, you can view a web tutorial that shows you how to: Use OneTouch to file electronically Utilize the ECF Manager Prepare post-petition filings Edit the Forms List Upload credit counseling certificates Live Local Seminars Gain a better understanding of advanced functions in Best Case and learn time-saving strategies. Workshops are hosted four times a year in various parts of the United States. Attendees participate in peer discussions, a question and answer session and receive complimentary take-home course materials. View upcoming events: Scan with BestScan Import credit reports Invite a client to use MyCaseInfo Install and configure MyECFMail Watch now: Best Case, LLC

8 Workflow Efficiency Tools Best Case Bankruptcy is the central piece in the bankruptcy process delivering faster and more accurate case preparation and e-filing. By adding the following workflow tools to Best Case, you can streamline data-entry, legal research, form preparation and the CM/ECF process. MyCaseInfo Custom Chapter 13 Plans Streamline the initial data collection and entry process with an online, client questionnaire for Chapter 7 and 13 debtors Choose from more than 80 jursidiction-specific plans Cloud Computing Credit Report Import Access Best Case anywhere and on any device, including a Mac Save time and money by importing electronic credit reports MyECFMail Client Course Manager Order and track your clients bankruptcy courses in Best Case Easily manage your CM/ECF communications and get your free looks automatically downloaded Read on for more information Credit Report Import Client Course Manager MyCaseInfo Debtor MyECFMail BEST CASE BANKRUPTCY Attorney CyberlinkASP 8 Getting Started with Best Case Bankruptcy Custom Chapter 13 Plans

9 MyCaseInfo Save hours of data-entry time with a client questionnaire MyCaseInfo is a secure, web-based client questionnaire for Chapter 7 and 13 debtors. With a click of a button you can directly populate client entered data into Best Case, saving your firm hours of data entry time. Pay only $8 per imported client file, billed conveniently at the end of each month. Key features of MyCaseInfo: Customize the client questionnaire by requiring your client to complete all or certain sections including Income, Debts, Expenses and more Preview all client entered information to check progress and quality Directly import data into Best Case Easily communicate with your clients through and question flags Gain access to attorney and client help centers for helpful guides, videos and FAQs Manage billing information and view past invoices online Your first download is FREE For more information and to signup visit: Credit Report Import Cut case preparation time with electronic credit reports The Best Case Credit Report Import feature provides users with an easier, more convenient and faster way to enter claims directly on the creditor schedules by reducing data entry time. Plus, access a variety of due diligence products and services to help satisfy the BAPCPA fact-checking requirements quickly and easily. Get Started Today Contact a vendor to set up an account: A Suite Solution Key features of Credit Report Import: Save time and money Order electronic credit reports and transfer data directly into applicable schedules in seconds Increase accuracy No more manual entry and the errors that go along with keying in the information Control and filter data Control what claims are imported to simplify preparation Protect your clients Eliminate the chance of forgotten liabilities showing up at a later date by ordering 3-bureau credit reports CIN Legal Data Services Quadrant Data Solutions For more information visit: Best Case, LLC

10 Client Course Manager Order and track your clients bankruptcy courses in Best Case Order Pre-Filing Credit Counseling and Debtor Education courses from Start Fresh Today for your clients with the Client Course Manager. Streamline the entire process without ever leaving Best Case. Use the Client Course Manager to: Streamline BAPCPA compliance under a comprehensive, easy-to-use platform Proactively track credit counseling and debtor education course work in real-time Eliminate the hassle of managing multiple vendors Reduce paperwork and automatically delivers certificates directly into the ECF Manager ready for filing For more information and to signup visit: Custom Chapter 13 Plans Enhance your license Numerous jurisdictions require a specific Chapter 13 format to be filed. Best Case developers work closely with the courts to provide customers with more than 80 districtspecific Chapter 13 Plans. These court-compliant plans are available to add onto a Best Case Chapter 13 license for an additional fee. Key features of custom Chapter 13 Plans: Court-compliant Our developers work closely with the Court to verify the plan meets the requirements of your jurisdiction Seamless Interaction No need to download the Chapter 13 Plan from your Trustee s website, the plan is automatically built-into Best Case Up-to-date Forms Chapter 13 Plan updates are integrated into software updates so you know you are filing with the most-current plan Flexible Licensing Easily add a custom Chapter 13 Plan at anytime. Place an order by phone and get an within minutes that unlocks the custom plan For a complete list of custom Chapter 13 plans visit: Cloud Computing Access Best Case anywhere and on any device, including a Mac Best Case has partnered with CyberlinkASP to provide a tested and secure web-based hosting solution for all your office applications including Best Case. Benefits of the Cloud: Compatible with any operating system eliminates Parallels or Bootcamp Best Case is accessible anywhere, from any web-enable device No server costs or support issues Automatic updates no need to manually update, you will always have the current version Can include any of your other programs or office applications For more information visit: 10 Getting Started with Best Case Bankruptcy

11 MyECFMail Easily manage your CM/ECF s This time-saving ECF workflow solution was developed to help your firm organize, access and calendar the high number of s transmitted from the Bankruptcy Court. FREE 30-DAY TRIAL MyECFMail automatically: Downloads and saves your Free Looks from the Court Populates the ECF Calendar with bankruptcy-specific events Integrates with Best Case Bankruptcy so you are able to view all CM/ECF s, PDFs, Proofs of Claim and events for a client within the software MyECFMail: Manager No more manually downloading your Free Looks or taking trips to PACER to gather information. The Manager automates the process by downloading and saving your Free Looks for you. It delivers a robust platform that offers a variety of sorting, filtering and organizational enhancements to increase your productivity. The Manager allows you to quickly view and search CM/ECF communications, plus get a overview of daily calendar activities. MyECFMail: ECF Calendar Get notified of upcoming bankruptcy-specific events so you don t let an important deadline pass you by. The ECF Calendar is automatically populated based on docket text from your CM/ECF s. Rules and alarms are auto-assigned to easily identify these deadlines and remind you when an event is approaching. Plus, easily auto-transfer events to Microsoft Outlook or Google Calendar. Integration with Best Case Bankruptcy The MyECFMail Case Viewer is an easy way to view CM/ECF activity for a particular client in a few clicks. View s, Free Looks, Proof of Claims and events directly in Best Case. To access the most up-todate information, the latest version of MyECFMail must be installed and running. The MyECFMail Case Viewer in Best Case provides access to all post communicaiton activities right from your client files. For more information and to signup for a free 30-day trial visit: Best Case, LLC

12 Quick Start Guide Best Case Bankruptcy Enter Case Information All forms located in the Forms and Schedules Menu are listed in the order your court requires. Double-click on the Voluntary Petition to start entering information. Print Documents From the Forms and Schedules Menu, highlight the form you want to print, and click once in the print column, next to the name of the document. To print all forms, double-click in the print column. 1. When a document is marked to print, a printer icon appears next to it in the print column 2. Click the PRINT button in the main tool bar 3. The Print Document window appears. If necessary, adjust the print options, such as: Print the word Draft on forms, or Print the date on signature lines 4. Click PRINT to send documents to the printer Scan with BestScan BestScan converts scanned documents to PDF files, making it the perfect tool for scanning supplemental documents, such as certificates or pay stubs. 1. In a client file, open the ECF MANAGER 2. Click BESTSCAN, located in the bottom row of buttons. 3. Load the document into the scanner and click SCAN 4. Click SAVE PDF 5. Name the file and click SAVE. The name of the new PDF file is displayed in the ECF Manager TIP: OneTouch recognizes and uploads files with specific names. For naming conventions, see the Electronic Case Filing guide. IMPORTANT: Scanners must have a TWAIN driver to enable this feature. File Electronically with OneTouch Electronic filing is quick and easy with OneTouch. To prepare PDF files and upload them to the Court s website, follow these easy steps: 1. Enter all data for your case in Best Case 2. Click the ECF LIGHTNING BOLT to prepare PDF files with the ECF Wizard 3. When files are ready, the ECF Manager appears TIP: Practice uploading documents to the Court s training website by checking the box in the lower left corner of the ECF Manager. 4. To transmit files to the Court, click the ONETOUCH case upload button to open the login screen 5. At the login screen, enter your LOGIN NAME and PASSWORD, and click FILE CASE. Best Case will then automatically submit your files to the court and return a case number. Your case is filed! Get Technical Support 1. Access the Help File: Help topics are available for every entry screen, feature and functionality in Best Case Bankruptcy. Click the HELP button in the menu bar for instructions or press F1 2. Download the Best Case User s Guide at Technical Support at help@bestcase.com 4. Call Technical Support at Best Case Bankruptcy is the leading software solution for attorneys providing bankruptcy services to clients. Since 1993, Best Case has helped streamline the petition preparation and the electronic filing process for bankruptcy attorneys. The building block of Best Case is providing software that works flawlessly and incorporates the ever-changing court requirements, on time to better serve your firm. For more information visit or call GS21_2C_ Best Case, LLC