There used to be a time not that many years ago where one could file for bankruptcy at the drop of a hat, just because they wanted to. In the majority of cases, there did not even need to be a real financial need to do so, but with the very lax bankruptcy laws in place at that time, many people found it easier to file for bankruptcy than to struggle with paying their debts, and many people filed for bankruptcy once every two or three years.
The bankruptcy laws have gotten significantly tougher in recent years, and in fact you may not be approved to be able to file bankruptcy with the new laws. While the bankruptcy laws still vary widely from state to state, there are enough federally mandated laws in place that filing bankruptcy is a significantly more difficult process than it used to be, and requires approval of the bankruptcy judge, which is not granted automatically.
In fact, the procedure for filing bankruptcy is no longer a do-it-yourself procedure. There are places that market a do-it-yourself bankruptcy kit, but the amount of time you will spend to understand the very complex and complicated procedures will leave your head spinning. Your time is much better spent getting your financial life back together, and the money you spend on a good bankruptcy attorney will be well worth the expense, since the bankruptcy attorney will know the procedures, the hurdles, and be familiar with the variations of the bankruptcy law in the state where you are filing.
Another point about a good bankruptcy attorney is that they are in an excellent procedure to advise you as to your best options. More often than not, a debt consolidation service may be a better overall option for you, and debt consolidation does not have the long term negative affects on your credit score that bankruptcy does. You may wish to visit our web site at http://www.debtconsolidationstrategies.com for more information about debt consolidation.
There are some common misconceptions about bankruptcy. It is totally different than declaring bankruptcy in the game of Monopoly, but some of the things that people assume about bankruptcy are totally false, and we will take a look at some of those things here.
While you are thinking about bankruptcy, there are probably people around you who "know" the bankruptcy laws but what they think they know is probably wrong. Some people think they will lose everything in bankruptcy. Not true. This depends on your individual situation and the type or chapter of bankruptcy you file. You may in fact not lose anything at all.
Another myth is that you will never be able to get credit again after filing bankruptcy. Nothing could be further from the truth. Granted, it will be more difficult to get credit and until you have proven yourself again, you will likely have to pay a higher interest rate for that credit, but getting credit after bankruptcy is not a major hurdle.
You need to understand the bankruptcy laws from people like a bankruptcy lawyer who deal with bankruptcy all the time, not take the advice of people who heard this, that and the other thing about it. This is a critical time in your financial life, and the last thing you need is bum advice from someone who thinks they know what they are talking about.
Got a Question? Ask.
Ask the community a question about this article:
Frequently Asked Questions
I am giving a lecture on third parties and I would ...
By: harold gortner | 24-08-2008
I am giving a lecture on third parties and I would like to find out how third parties or independent candidates get on the ballot in South Carolina? What are the procedures for getting on the SC ballot?
Thank you.
I suppose you have my email address, but in case, it is hgortner@hargray.com
Can a spouse name her children as primary ...
By: dennis | 24-08-2008
can a spouse name her children as primary beneficaries along with her surviving spouse. the split would be 50/50. I thought that the surviving spouse was the beneficary. when the surviving spouce died the estate would be split up between the step children and the child. the marriage has been for 4 years, if that matters any.
please advise
Does 40 duplex condos on one property need 51 ...
By: dahanos | 24-08-2008
does 40 duplex condos on one property need 51% owner occupancy to qualify for a reverse mortgage?
Is a wife responsible for debts incurred by her ...
By: Gerald Schultz | 24-08-2008
Is a wife responsible for debts incurred by her husband on his credit cards.
49494985494985I WANT TO KNOW ABOUT A GUY NAMED ...
By: MIKE | 24-08-2008
49494985494985i want to know about a guy named james vernon ward.
Fishing laws of west va. hampshire, county
By: allen1 | 23-08-2008
can you be charged for fishing if pole is not in water or in hand
Q&A Powered by:
Latest Finance Articles
The History of the Global Forex Market
By: Orlando Thompson | 07/10/2008
In this article we explain what the global forex market is and how it came to be this is very insightful information that will help you in your forex trading system choices.
How To Go About Improving Your Credit Score
By: MIKE SELVON | 07/10/2008
While it'd be nice to live a "credit-free existence," it can be difficult to do so in today's world.
Self Directed IRA Possibilities With A Small Business
By: Jerry Glynn | 07/10/2008
It is normally not possible to set up a self directed IRA with a small business. This article describes a little known strategy that can be used in conjunction with a small business.
Understanding Debt Consolidation Loans
By: Richard Greenwood | 07/10/2008
It can be all too easy to end up in debt and especially during the current times of financial uncertainty you may find yourself unable to make repayments. Consolidating your debt can make your debts easier to manage and lower your interest charges meaning you become debt free faster.
Credit Card Comparison
By: Richard Greenwood | 07/10/2008
Credit card offers are everywhere and all claim to out do each other. How do you cut through the marketing talk and understand the key features you need to compare to make an informed decision. Find out with this informative article on credit card comparison.
Shopping For Auto Insurance
By: Brenda Williams | 07/10/2008
When you get your license for the first time before you begin driving you need to get car insurance as it's mandatory to have car insurance while driving. Car insurance can be rather expensive, especially for new drivers which is why you'll need to ensure that you're getting the best...
Taking 100% Responsibility - the Prerequisite for Creating Money & Marriage Success
By: Leslie Cunningham | 07/10/2008
It's a simple concept, to refrain from blaming and complaining, and yet it's a challenge to change a habit, especially one that everyone else has. Like sticking to your diet, when everyone else around you is enjoying chocolate cake. Keep reading and you'll find out how this relates to your marriage and finances. Then I'll share some action steps to help you become 100% responsible for your life.
Retirement Income Investing and Your Portfolio
By: Steve Selengut | 07/10/2008
Brokerage firm monthly statements are designed to promote either fear or greed, depending on the current market environment. Nowhere on your statement can you find numbers that report your net investment, your total working capital, or your true asset allocation. Current and projected income numbers are given little attention
More from Jon Arnold
Where Do You Turn for Solid Divorce Information?
By: Jon Arnold | 25/08/2008 | Divorce
You don't want to think about divorce, but if that is a reality for you, then there are things you should do to prepare for it, especially if you are not sure your spouse is going to be agreeable to how everything should be split up.
Get the Straight Scoop on Bad Credit Car Loans
By: Jon Arnold | 24/08/2008 | Personal Finance
If you have bad credit and you know it, you can still get a car loan, but don't waste your time with loan applications where you know you will be declined or charged astronomical interest rates. There are many companies that specialize in bad credit loans, especially if you can show them a trend towards getting your finances together.
How to Determine and Raise Your Credit Report Score
By: Jon Arnold | 21/08/2008 | Personal Finance
You should always know what your credit report score is, since this is something that can affect many different areas of your life. Dispute the wrong information which can in turn raise your score, which is to your huge benefit.
Steps You Can Take Now to Get a College Scholarship
By: Jon Arnold | 18/08/2008 | College and University
The best and easiest way to afford the huge financial burden of a college education is via a college scholarship or grant. Here are some tips to help you understand how to start applying for the many scholarships that are available to you right now.
What You Must Know Now About Filing Bankruptcy
By: Jon Arnold | 15/08/2008 | Personal Finance
If you are considering filing bankruptcy you should think twice because doing so may not be in your best interests. Filing bankruptcy is not nearly as easy as it used to be, and these days consumers have several other options that may be better for them.
Presenting yourself Via the Perfect Car Loan Application
By: Jon Arnold | 12/08/2008 | Personal Finance
When you have decided on the car you want, you will need to pay particular attention to how you present yourself on the car loan application. Shop around, since the dealership probably does not have the best loan programs available, and the money you save will serve a much better purpose in your wallet.
Tips for Getting Approved for a Bad Credit Car Loan
By: Jon Arnold | 12/08/2008 | Personal Finance
If you have bad credit and need a car loan, all is not lost. You can still get your car loan but to get the best loan program and best interest rates possible, you are strongly encouraged to follow the tips presented in this article for your best chances of success.
Understanding Your Health Insurance Coverage Needs
By: Jon Arnold | 12/08/2008 | Insurance
If you are looking at what to have covered in your health insurance, take a good look because health care costs are sky rocketing. Look at what you need to keep yourself out of financial trouble, as well as what can be anticipated and then look at your options.