Us Trustee

The United States Trustee Program (USTP) is a litigating component of the Department of Justice, established in 1978 and made permanent in 1986. Its mission is to promote the integrity and efficiency of the bankruptcy system for the benefit of all stakeholders, including debtors, creditors, and the public. Often referred to as the "watchdog of the bankruptcy system," the USTP works to prevent fraud, dishonesty, and overreaching.

The Program operates across 21 regions, with 82 field offices nationwide and an Executive Office in Washington, D.C. It has standing to participate in every individual and business bankruptcy case within its jurisdiction, overseeing over a million active cases annually. Key duties include appointing and supervising over 1,000 private trustees for Chapter 7, 12, and 13 cases, and approximately 250 private trustees for Subchapter V of Chapter 11 cases. The USTP also approves and monitors credit counseling and debtor education providers.

Its responsibilities extend to civil enforcement, combating bankruptcy fraud and abuse by seeking remedies against debtors who conceal assets or make false oaths, and protecting consumers from misconduct by professionals or creditors. The USTP also refers potential criminal activities to U.S. Attorneys' offices and assists in investigations and prosecutions. Additionally, it facilitates access to justice by providing services like virtual Section 341 meetings and interpreter services for individuals with limited English proficiency. The Program supervises Chapter 11 reorganizations, monitoring professional applications and compensation, and reviewing plans of reorganization.