Can A Chapter 13 Lawyer Help?

In today’s unsettled economic times, many individuals are thinking about contacting a Chapter 13 lawyer in order to reorganize their finances. It’s a rare individual in our current era who has remained untouched by some sort of money problem. Job losses, underemployment for those who do have jobs, underwater mortgages and the health care crisis are all contributing factors to a particularly dicey monetary climate. Some people are considering contacting an attorney but may be fearful that their reputations will be ruined or that they’ll never own another home. Here are some things to think about regarding this legal action.

- What a Chapter 13 filing is: Chapter 13 bankruptcy is different than others. Instead of wiping the slate completely clean and turning in all of one’s assets, this type of legal maneuver is designed for reorganizing debts. Most filers are able to keep their current house and just set up different payment schedules with their creditors.

- Public knowledge of a bankruptcy: Rarely does anyone find out about another person’s filing unless the bankrupt individual tells them. And in today’s climate of financial turmoil, not many individuals would think harshly of others for doing just that. In fact, many who feel they are all alone in their sea of red ink would be surprised to know just how many of their neighbors and co-workers are in the same situation.

- Ruination of credit: Many individuals are worried sick that a bankruptcy filing will forever ruin their credit rating. Consumers have been trained to guard their credit rating like a treasure. The truth of the matter is that credit ratings aren’t what they used to be. So many Americans have faced difficulties because of the housing bubble, job losses or flawed mortgages that it’s a rare person who hasn’t been affected. Credit ratings will have a blemish but if an individual had a solid track record before and after the filing, chances are that creditors will take that into account. In the worst case scenario, the bankruptcy will be there but only for a matter of years rather than for the rest of one’s life.

- Feeling like a failure: Many individuals may feel that they have failed if they contact an attorney and file for Chapter 13. This is just not the case. Realizing that there’s no other way out and asking for guidance in restructuring the payoffs is actually a sign of strength. Starting over again on new footing can make a huge difference and be a chance to succeed in the future.

- It will be bad for my family: Actually, reorganization of debts can take a huge burden off one’s family. When crushing money troubles are weighing people down, marital relationships suffer and children feel it, too. Alleviating the pressure can create a more harmonious home life.

Contrary to many individuals’ fears, contacting a Chapter 13 lawyer can help a person lead a more successful life rather than be a sign of failure. Making a new start can alleviate pressure and be a chance to start over.