What is a section 341(a) meeting of creditors?

Section 341(a) of the Bankruptcy Code requires every debtor to personally attend a meeting of creditors and to submit to an examination under oath. The United States Trustee, his designee or, in a chapter 7 or 13 case, a panel or standing trustee, presides at the meeting. Creditors may question the debtor under oath, elect a trustee other than the one assigned, and conduct such other business as may be appropriate. Creditors are not required to be represented by counsel or attend the meeting.