Wednesday, May 27, 2015

Considering bankruptcy? Read this

In most cases, you can:
•Protect your home, car and other assets;
•Get rid of most debts;
•Stop foreclosure, wage garnishments, and lawsuits;



In some cases, you can:
•Get rid of old federal and state taxes;
•Cancel judgment liens;
•Strip away a second or more mortgages on "underwater" homes;
•Get assistance for loan modifications under the Home Affordable Modification Program (HAMP).





Remember, bankruptcy is a federal law. Its ultimate purpose is to give distressed debtors a fresh financial start.
The federal bankruptcy law does provide debtors certain protections upon the filing of their bankruptcy petition with the bankruptcy court. First and foremost is the automatic stay provided by the bankruptcy code, which in most cases stops all lawsuits that may be pending against the debtor.


Additionally, the law is intended to protect certain assets of the individual by way of statutory exemptions. These exemptions are explained in great detail when the client meets with the attorney. The bankruptcy filing in and of itself generally stops harassing phone calls, stops foreclosure, stops wage garnishments, and as previously mentioned, stops lawsuits that may be adverse to the debtor.

Should you be behind on your home mortgage payments, the bankruptcy code would allow the filing of a Chapter 13 (save-the-home plan) allowing the debtor to retain the home and work out a plan to pay back arrears owed.




*This does not constitute legal advice. The content of this blog relates to Indiana residents only.

Monday, May 25, 2015

Bankruptcy and back taxes

Indiana residents:
Do you owe federal and state taxes? Then, consider bankruptcy; especially if you have other debts. In many cases, bankruptcy may help you reduce the amount of taxes you owe. A tax lien was recorded against your property? Here too, you may get relief by either getting rid of the lien altogether or reducing the amount of taxes owed. Discuss the matter with an experienced bankruptcy attorney to find out whether you qualify to take advantage of what bankruptcy law has to offer in the area of back taxes.