Roanoke residents who are carrying a weight of consumer debt on their shoulders can find themselves under enormous stress. That same stress can spill over into all areas of their lives. Stress can jeopardize a job and career path and even tank a marriage. But what can...
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
Understanding Chapter 7 bankruptcy exemptions in Virginia
One of the most common questions our attorneys hear involves what a person will lose in a Chapter 7 bankruptcy. We think this is a great question. After working hard to acquire the things you own, you want to keep as much as possible to avoid starting from scratch...
Will you lose your wedding rings and your grandmother’s silver in a bankruptcy?
A lot of people are afraid to file for bankruptcy protection because they believe that they’ll have to give up everything of value that they own in the process. As dire as their financial situation may be, the prospect of losing certain sentimental items -- like their...
Yes, a bankruptcy could help you in your 20s
As a young adult, you knew that you made mistakes. You often used credit when you ran low on funds, and though you were able to repay what you owed in the past, that’s not the case now. You’re still only in your 20s, but struggling with your finances is a stressor...
What is a nonexempt asset in Chapter 7 bankruptcy?
A person who files for Chapter 7 bankruptcy will have to turn some assets over to the court, so they can be liquidated to pay off as much of the debt as possible. There are two classifications of assets that are used for bankruptcy – exempt and nonexempt. An exempt...
Discharging Debt With Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
For those who qualify, filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy can be a very quick and effective way to get rid of debt and gain a fresh financial start. Chapter 7 works by discharging debt in exchange for the liquidation of certain assets (on a case-by-case basis). But even...
Do you have to pay for bankruptcy if you qualify?
Bankruptcy is an interesting process. When you file for it, you can protect your assets against collections and even stop things like wage garnishments or foreclosures. You may go through credit counseling and get help eliminating your unsecured debts. Sometimes,...
Who can get a Chapter 7 bankruptcy?
You've worked hard your entire life, but now you need help. You've lost your job, and you had only a small amount of savings to fall back on. The economy isn't doing well, so finding a new job has been impossible. You're several years away from retirement, and you are...
How can you negotiate with creditors?
When you're struggling and think you may need to go through bankruptcy, one thing to try first is debt settlement. Negotiating your debts and settling them for less than you owe is a good way to reduce the amount you have to pay. It's a great way to eliminate debts if...
Financial mistakes, life changes can result in bankruptcy
No matter who you are, you're prone to making financial mistakes. Even if you do your best to avoid them, you never know what'll creep into your life.Unfortunately, some financial mistakes are more damaging than others. Depending on the impact of a mistake, you could...