Before someone considers filing for bankruptcy, they have usually exhausted all other options. They may have gotten into this position because of a lost job, unforeseen, large medical bills or some other devastating event. It’s not an easy decision to disclose the most intimate financial details to strangers. Many people feel embarrassed and ashamed that they have arrived at this juncture. It’s time to find an expert and discuss what options there might be and what to expect.
Chapter 7 is what most people think of first. After the debtor qualifies as to income, non-exempt assets are sold for cash which is used to repay creditors. After that, most debts are cancelled. In practice, most debtors qualifying for Chapter 7 do not lose any assets. Debtors who qualify for Chapter 13 in Salt Lake City have regular income and an ability to repay debts under a repayment plan. If the debtor’s home is in foreclosure, the bankruptcy filing will create an automatic stay, allowing the family to remain in their home. The automatic stay prevents all creditors from making phone calls or continuing with any other attempts to collect.
Repayment plans last for 3-5 years. Each plan is unique, based on the particular circumstances in each case and the ability of the debtor to repay something every month. Debtors have an opportunity to catch up on past due mortgage payments. While in the Chapter 13 process, the family lives on a budget that has been approved by the court. Determining a budget takes into account the size of the family and any special financial requirements.
Lewis Adams and Associates limit their law practice to consumer bankruptcy. For over 17 years, they have represented clients during what may be the most difficult time of their lives. Because bankruptcy is all that they do, they offer personalized service than cannot be duplicated. Lewis P. Adams received his Juris Doctorate in 1995 from the University of Utah College of Law. Mr. Adams and his experienced team help consumers with either Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy, representing clients at the United States Bankruptcy Court. Anyone contemplating bankruptcy can contact his office in West Jordan, Utah for a free consultation.
