The distress you experience when dealing with debt takes a detrimental toll on your health. When you are unable to keep up with your mortgage payments and credit card bills, everything feels stressful and overwhelming. If you are in this situation yourself, know that there is a solution. By filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Atlanta, you can get the debt relief you need so that you can start over and build a better life for yourself. At CMC Law, our Chapter 7 bankruptcy attorney will provide you with invaluable insights and guidance to help you get through your filing.
What is Chapter 7 Bankruptcy?
According to Chapter 7 lawyers, Chapter 7 is a type of liquidation bankruptcy that allows you to vanquish your unsecured debts. When you file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Atlanta, you will work with your Chapter 7 attorney and a trustee assigned to your case to review your existing debt and determine whether it can be sold or discharged. At the end of this process, the court will grant you a bankruptcy discharge that eliminates your debt. Depending on your individual circumstances, you may be able to use your Chapter 7 bankruptcy to protect your home, car, and other assets.
The Advantages of Filing for Bankruptcy
There are many benefits to filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Atlanta.
- Automatic stay. As soon as your Chapter 7 attorney files your bankruptcy, an automatic stay is placed on your collectors. This means that they cannot collect from you throughout the duration of your case. In certain situations, filing can also put a temporary hold on evictions, repossessions and foreclosures.
- Debt relief. Chapter 7 bankruptcy dismisses most kinds of debt like individual loans, credit card bills and medical payments. When the court grants you a bankruptcy discharge, you are not obligated to pay back these debts.
- Retain your possessions. Most individuals and families that file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy can keep their cars, homes and other personal property.
- Quick process. Unlike Chapter 13 bankruptcy, filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy is a faster process that usually takes no more than four to six months to complete.
- Credit score. Chapter 7 bankruptcy provides a clean slate that allows you to rebuild your credit score.
The Disadvantages of Filing for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
While Chapter 7 bankruptcy is the ideal solution for many people, there are some situations where it may not be the right option for you.
- To qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you must meet certain income requirements and pass the means test. If you have too much disposable income, you cannot file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy.
- Loss of property. Some of your possessions may be deemed as nonexempt, which means you will not be able to retain ownership.
- Ineligible debt. There are certain debts including taxes, alimony, student loans and child support that cannot be discharged in a Chapter 7 bankruptcy filing.
- Filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy can be costly. Between filing fees, credit counseling courses and Chapter 7 attorney fees, these expenses can quickly add up.
Work with the Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Attorneys at CMC Law Today
While your current circumstances may seem hopeless, know that you are not alone. The Chapter 7 attorneys at CMC Law will use their certified experience and expert knowledge of bankruptcy law to get you the relief you need. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.
At CMC Law, we work hard to help you maintain a debt-free lifestyle.