Chapter 7 is what most people think of — and hope for — when they are considering filing for bankruptcy. Under Chapter 7, you will generally be able to eliminate all of your credit card debt, medical bills, tax arrears and other consumer debt. Under the right circumstances, most people are able to keep their house and cars.
Chapter 7 bankruptcy isn’t for everyone. In the first place, new laws put in place in 2005 make it necessary to take a “means test” to determine whether your income exceeds the median income in Hawaii for a household of your size. If your income and certain of your debts provide that you have a sufficient income to pay back some of the debt, then you may not be allowed to file for Chapter 7, but Chapter 13 is still an option.
While the bankruptcy trustee eliminates your debts, it might also be necessary to sell (liquidate) some of your property to pay your creditors. For most people nothing is taken from them as they can “exempt” most if not all of their property and get a “fresh start” while retaining their vehicles, retirement accounts, household goods and savings up to $11,000 per person. For this reason, it is sometimes referred to as “straight” or “liquidation” bankruptcy. Simply put, there is no better legal way available to help you and your family get completely out from under the crushing burden of debt.
To learn more about the process and various components of Chapter 7, visit What Is Chapter 7?
Do any of these symptoms of heavy debt sound familiar?
If you are familiar with one or more of these, it is probably time to admit it to yourself — you are not likely to work your way out of debt. You need help, and the U.S. bankruptcy courts are here for you.
We invite you to stop worrying and start acting on your own behalf. Learn more about Chapter 7 at these pages:
Chapter 7 is not for everyone. Call us now to find out if it is right for you. We offer a free consultation. You will find us easy to work with. We practice with integrity and keep our prices as low as possible. Through everything, we will be at your side to answer questions and help you feel great about getting a fresh start.
From our offices in Honolulu, we help people across Hawaii. We are confident we can help you. Call me at 808-585-1000 or use our contact form to arrange a free consultation.