Facing Overwhelming Debt? Bankruptcy Might Be Your Chance At A Fresh Start.
Most Americans have debt – it’s just how our economy works. But not everyone is able to get out of debt on their own, usually because of unforeseen circumstances like job losses or medical emergencies. If you find yourself in this situation, you may be reluctant to file for bankruptcy because of the shame and judgment that often surrounds it.
I am attorney Ernie Aponte, and I’m here to tell you that you have nothing to be ashamed of. Bankruptcy is a legal tool used by about 1.5 million people in America each year – good people facing hard times. At my firm, Aponte Law Services, I use nearly two decades of legal experience to help clients seek a fresh start through Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 personal bankruptcy. I can help you, too.
Discharging Your Debts Through Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
When most people think of bankruptcy, they are thinking of Chapter 7. If you qualify for Chapter 7, most of your unsecured debts (credit cards, medical bills, etc.) can be discharged, or forgiven. It is also known as liquidation bankruptcy because, in some (but not all) cases, clients are asked to forfeit (liquidate) certain assets to help partially repay creditors.
In order to qualify for Chapter 7, you must pass a “means test.” This is an examination of your monthly income for the last six months. To be eligible, it must be less than the median income for similarly sized households in New Jersey. If you don’t qualify for Chapter 7, I can help you pursue Chapter 13.
Reorganizing And Repaying Debt With Chapter 13
The other common type of personal bankruptcy is Chapter 13. Instead of being discharged, your debts are reorganized into a manageable repayment plan lasting three to five years. Even though it takes longer, there are several advantages to pursuing Chapter 13.
First, if you are currently behind on auto loan or mortgage payments, Chapter 13 may allow you to become current and therefore keep these assets. Second, Chapter 13 can help you reorganize and repay debts that are nondischargeable under Chapter 7, like some taxes and student loans. Finally, Chapter 13 stays on your credit report for only seven years, while Chapter 7 will remain on it for a decade.
The Credit Counseling Course Requirement
New Jersey law requires you to get credit counseling within 180 days before filing for bankruptcy. I am affiliated with state-recognized online counselling service that is very affordable and easy to use. Visit the moneysharp.org website, click on the red “Create Account” button and follow the simple instructions. After you pay the $10 fee, complete the online course and then call me. Make sure to save your username and password because you will need to take a second course later in the bankruptcy process.
Contact My Firm For A Free Discussion About Your Options
Aponte Law Services is based in Hammonton, and I am a lawyer who serves clients throughout Atlantic County and the surrounding areas. My office is a welcoming, nonjudgmental environment where you’ll be offered a cup of coffee and a listening ear. If you’d like to hear more about your bankruptcy options and learn how I can help, contact me to schedule a free initial consultation. Just call 609-566-8668 or submit an online contact form. Yo hablo español.
My firm is a debt relief agency. I help people file for bankruptcy relief under the Bankruptcy Code.