Tips For Navigating The Process Of Personal Bankrupcy

Personal bankruptcy laws in the United States are extremely complicated and very difficult to understand. Before deciding to apply for bankruptcy, it is important that you fully understand all bankruptcy laws, and know whether or not your financial situation will or will not be improved by filing for bankruptcy. Continue reading this article to learn about bankruptcy.

More Information

 

 

One you realize you are in financial trouble and have decided to file for personal bankruptcy you should move quickly. Waiting to the last minute to file bankruptcy can cause a number of issues. You may face negative repercussions such as wage or bank account garnishment or foreclosure on your home. You can also not leave time enough for a thorough review of your financial situation, which will limit your available options.

 

Prescreen any bankruptcy lawyer before hiring one. Because bankruptcy is an every-growing area of law that attracts new lawyers all the time, you are likely to encounter many new lawyers who do not have much experience. You can check any bankruptcy lawyer's credentials online and see if they have any disciplinary actions on their record for improper filings or practices. You are also likely to find client ratings. In the matter of choosing a lawyer, one with experience and a positive record is always best.

 

If bankruptcy is an option for you, secure the services of an attorney. Bankruptcy is a complex process, and you probably don't know all the information that is required to navigate it. Talk to a bankruptcy lawyer, they can help clarify anything that you might have confusion with.

 

If you have filed for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, but realize that you are unable to meet your payment obligations, you may be able to convert to a Chapter 7 bankruptcy instead. To qualify for the conversion, you must never have converted your bankruptcy before and also undergo a financial evaluation. The laws surrounding this process are always changing, so be sure to talk with an attorney who can help you navigate this process.

 

Do not feel embarrassed or guilty about filling for bankruptcy. Many people fear that they will be treated as second class citizens after they declare themselves bankrupt. However, this is not the case. The option to 'declare yourself bankrupt' was developed by the government to enable assistance to be given to people who find themselves overwhelmed with debt and in need of a fresh start. Last year, over 1.4 million people filed bankruptcy and the majority of them are now living a happy, debt-free life. So, there is no need for you to be afraid of bankruptcy stigma.

 

Be prepared to complete some mandatory courses. When you file for bankruptcy, the court will require that you successfully complete two mandatory courses, a credit counseling course and a debtor education course. Both of these courses can be completed online for a nominal fee, and while they are not too difficult, it is important that you are prepared for them.

 

If you are in deep personal debt, you may be able to improve your situation by applying for bankruptcy. Although America's bankruptcy laws are very complex, by reading this article you should have a better understanding of them. Before filing for bankruptcy, it is important that you fully understand all of the pros and cons.