Category Archives: Chapter 7
What Is The Difference Between Discharge And Dismissal In A Bankruptcy Case?
In bankruptcy cases, as with many other legal matters, many words mean something other than their usual meanings. On the surface, bankruptcy seems to mean not having any money, but the legal term is actually “bankruptcy protection,” where the court decides which of your possessions and how much of your money creditors cannot take… Read More »
Is Filing For Bankruptcy Better Than The Alternatives?
Certain corners of the Internet extol the virtues of living debt-free, but they can come across as smug to anyone who has ever walked in your shoes. Most of the denizens who inhabit the debt-free message boards live in parts of the country that are much less expensive than South Florida. Most of them… Read More »
How Long Does Bankruptcy Affect Your Credit?
You might have heard the urban legend that, if you file for bankruptcy, you will never be eligible to borrow money again, or that you will be ineligible for credit for the next seven years. Neither of these rumors is true. Bankruptcy is not a temporary or permanent financial death certificate. It also does… Read More »
Do You Really Need A Lawyer When Filing For Bankruptcy?
The court system is meant to be accessible to anyone, and so you have the option to represent yourself, as opposed to hiring a professional attorney, in many kinds of legal cases. In practice, self-representation (the Latin legal term for this is pro se) is more common in the kinds of legal matters that… Read More »
Rethinking Your Relationship With Credit Cards After Bankruptcy
One of the most persistent myths about bankruptcy filings is that, after you file for bankruptcy, you will never be able to use a credit card again. Not only are there hundreds of thousands of current credit card users who have previously filed for bankruptcy, but you might find that new credit card offers… Read More »
The Six Types Of Bankruptcy In Florida
Just as Florida recognizes six types of alimony, it also recognizes six types of bankruptcy filings. Most people you know who have filed for bankruptcy probably filed for chapter 7 or chapter 13 bankruptcy, because these are the categories of bankruptcy protection that apply to individuals. If you know someone who filed for bankruptcy… Read More »
Preparing For Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
Chapter 7 bankruptcy can be an excellent way to wipe out debt and move toward financial stability. However, the potential benefits don’t make this any less of a daunting process, a statement that can be true no matter how many people have found themselves in a similar position. In 2019 alone for example, almost… Read More »
Fewer Americans Are Struggling to Pay their Medical Bills
There is no doubt that medical debt is a significant cost for Americans, even those with health insurance. According to a survey by the Kaiser Family Foundation, the average premium for a person with worker-provided health insurance was over $20,000, of which employers covered around 70%. Before even seeing a doctor, many Americans are… Read More »
Why Raiding Your IRA to Pay Off Debt is a Bad Idea
Living with debt can be extremely stressful. As experienced Plantation bankruptcy attorneys, we have heard clients describe sleepless nights as they mull over their debts. The fear of going bankrupt never really leaves them, and this stress is compounded by constant calls from debt collectors. Many people will do almost anything to get out… Read More »
Can I Keep My Personal Injury Settlement if I File for Bankruptcy?
After a devastating car accident or slip and fall, many victims negotiate a settlement to help compensate them for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. These settlements often provide crucial support to injured victims, allowing them to keep the lights on as they try to recover and return to work. But what… Read More »