Learn more about effective debt relief options from our Wall, NJ attorney in a free consultation. Contact us online or at (732) 402-0088 today. Also serving Toms River and surrounding areas.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to Questions About Debt Relief from Our Wall, NJ Attorney
What is bankruptcy?
Bankruptcy is a legal means by which a debtor may reduce or eliminate certain types of debt under U.S. and state bankruptcy laws. Various types of bankruptcy have been created by the government for both individuals, married couples, and businesses. Personal bankruptcy is generally done through a Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 filing while business bankruptcy is generally accomplished by a Chapter 11. Each type has it own process, advantages and disadvantages.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q:What is the difference between a Chapter 7 and a Chapter 13 bankruptcy?
A:A chapter 7 eliminates unsecured debt such as credit card bills, medical bills, and other types of non-collateral debt through the process of liquidation of assets that are subject to bankruptcy. The proceeds of the liquidation are used to pay off creditors. Many assets are exempt from this process, whether under state or federal exemption rules. This means that most people who undertake a Chapter 7 can keep much of their assets and belongings. At the end of the process, most unsecured debt is discharged giving the debtor a clean slate and a fresh start.
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Q:How long does a bankruptcy take?
A:The Chapter 7 process is the simplest and fastest which takes about four months. Since the Chapter 13 process involves making payment over a long term to pay off creditors, it can take three to five years.
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Q:How does bankruptcy affect your credit score?
A:A bankruptcy filing can cause your credit score to decrease and can remain on credit reports for up to 10 years. This makes future borrowing difficult although you can immediately begin to work on improving your score through certain strategies in the wake of a bankruptcy. It is important to remember that most people who are heavily in debt, subject to wage garnishment, repossession, and lawsuits already have damaged credit scores.
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Q:What debts are dischargeable in bankruptcy?
A:The answer to this question depends on the type of bankruptcy that is filed. Under the Bankruptcy Code, Chapter 13 allows a more encompassing type of discharge so as to encourage individuals to use that Chapter to repay a portion of their debts. Generally, most unsecured debt can be discharged. This means debt like credit cards and medical bills. Most debt that is secured, like your mortgage and vehicle loan, survive bankruptcy as a charge against those attached items unless a court order modifies the lien. If you wish to save your home or car, we recommend that you speak with our attorney about the best way to do this.
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Q:Should I get debt counseling or a debt consolidation loan?
A:If you want to do debt consolidation or credit counseling, we recommend that you do it under Chapter 13. This allows you to set the plan approved by the court and make payments through the bankruptcy court that stops interest, late fees, and creditor harassment.
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