I know that filing bankruptcy is something you would rather not do. But due to circumstances that may have been beyond your control, it may now be your best option to avoid creditor harassment, lawsuits, wage garnishment, or home foreclosure. By carefully evaluating your present financial and legal position, I can help you determine if bankruptcy is the right option to pursue in order to get a "fresh start." I will also tell you if bankruptcy is not the right thing to do, and provide you with information about non-bankruptcy options, such as credit counseling and creditor workouts.

The decision to pursue bankruptcy protection is not one that's easy to make. Somehow, you want to save face or "do the right thing." So, you struggle along while your creditors turn up the heat. Pretty soon, with all the late fees, penalties and mounting interest, keeping your head above water becomes almost impossible.

Ask yourself this. If you could eliminate your debt without permanently damaging your credit, why wouldn't you? The stigma related to bankruptcy is not what it was 30 years ago. Just ask the millions of Americans who have taken this step to rebuild their futures. A clean slate is the ultimate tool of empowerment. Bankruptcy may not be the right decision for you, but you owe it to yourself to become educated about all of your options so that you can make an informed decision.

• Chapter 7 -- a bankruptcy where many, if not all, of your debts are cancelled outright in a short three- to six-month process. (See An Overview of Chapter 7 Bankruptcy.)
• Chapter 13 -- a bankruptcy where you use your income to make payments on your debts over the next three to five years. (See An Overview of Chapter 13 Bankruptcy.)


1. Consider simpler alternatives. Alternatives to Bankruptcy.
   
   
2. Make sure you are you eligible. Who Can File for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy or Chapter 13 Bankruptcy?
   
   
3. Learn which debts won't be canceled. What Bankruptcy Can and Cannot Do.
   
   
4. Consider what will happen to your home.
   
   
5. Will you lose your car or other property?
   
   
6. Will your credit cards be paid off?
   
   
7. Is your pension, IRA, or 401(k) safe?
   
   
8. Will cosigner's be stuck with your debt?
   
   
9. Consider your personal life.

For more information on whether bankruptcy is right for you and other debt relief options visit the FindLaw website.




Visit this link for Bankruptcy Frequently Asked Questions. If you have further questions or need additional information please don't hesitate to contact us for advice on your personal situation.

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