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Each year more than 1,200,000 Americans file for protection under the federal bankruptcy laws, according to the American Bankruptcy Institute. Some are credit abusers or are financially irresponsible. But average working men and women who try to pay their bills on time can sometimes find themselves in financial difficulties, as well. The sudden loss of a job, catastrophic medical bills, soaring credit card interest, student loans, a divorce or even a natural disaster can quickly wipe out a life's savings. For many, bankruptcy provides a second financial chance.