What You Need to Know About Bankruptcy

When the piles of debt seem to crush you, the thought of bankruptcy likely crosses your mind as an alternative to the position you are in. A bankruptcy attorney can provide the assistance you need to navigate this difficult financial time. Here’s what you need to know about bankruptcy.

Explore Options

Bankruptcy is not the only option available to you if you are pressured by debt and creditors. A good attorney should help you navigate all available options not just bankruptcy. Debt reduction and working with current creditors may be better solutions for you than bankruptcy. There are pros and cons with each one and are worth discussing with your attorney.

Proper Filing

Not hiring an attorney experienced in bankruptcy could lead to you not qualifying based on improper filing with the court. With the different types of bankruptcy available, you need to choose the right one for your situation. An attorney knows what to file and when. They can help you gather your financial information and file the documents with the courts.

Bankruptcy Types

Not all bankruptcy types wipe out all debt. Not everyone qualifies for a Chapter 7 which erases all debts by selling available assets. Sometimes a person can keep their property under a Chapter 7. There are income restrictions on Chapter 7 bankruptcy filings. A Chapter 13 may be another alternative which creates a structured repayment plan allowing you to pay over a period of time.

Other Considerations

Your income and assets are the main things used to determine the best bankruptcy type to file. In addition, a bankruptcy can affect your credit for up to 10 years by staying on your credit report. With all your credit history wiped out with a bankruptcy, your credit rating will likely drop significantly making it difficult to get a loan or credit card for a while.

When looking for ways to have financial freedom, a bankruptcy attorney may have the answers you need to eliminate your debt and get back on track. Many offer a free consultation.

Two Important Ways a Personal Injury Attorney May Assist a Client

A personal injury attorney wears many hats during his or her profession. This career – which entails representing or defending a client who has claimed that an injury has occurred – requires an attorney to be able to navigate all aspects of legal advocacy, as well as working with a client on an interpersonal basis. Here is a brief explanation about a couple of very important ways that a personal injury lawyer like Howard Blau Law may greatly help a client throughout a lawsuit.

Advocate for a Client

A personal injury lawsuit is a very serious situation for all parties involved. Often, a client’s entire life may be affected by what has occurred before – and what may happen after – the case has settled. In addition to understanding all the details and legality of the situation, an incredibly important way that a personal injury lawyer will help a client is by being a strong advocate. A lawsuit involving injury may leave a client feeling vulnerable and confused, likely resulting in many questions about rights and to what he or she may be legally entitled. A good injury attorney will work hard to ensure that clients are treated properly and will advocate for their well-being. It is vital that an attorney is a skilled communicator who listens intently to the needs of a client.

Advise a Client About All Available Options

Another way that an attorney can immensely assist a client is by advising exactly what he or she believes a client can (and should) do regarding exploring all possible settlement options. For example, a case involving damage and injury may take a very long time to reach a conclusion. A successful personal injury lawyer will have the knowledge and experience to offer insight about all the available options that may be best for a client to consider, such as taking the case all the way to a trial or settling outside of court. The guidance and information provided by a great attorney can aid in ensuring that a client receives the best outcome.