Saturday, February 7, 2015

WHAT WILL THE BANKRUPTCY HEARING BE LIKE?

Most clients are nervous about the hearing that they will need to attend about 3-4 weeks after the filing of their case.  There truly is no need whatsoever to be nervous.  Most hearing last about 4 minutes and then you can go home.

Frequently, clients ask me what to wear at the hearing.  I recommend casual every day clothing (wearing jeans is fine).  You want to avoid either extreme of clothing -- don't dress up like you are attending an opera, and don't wear sweat pants and a ripped T-shirt either.  Just your regular every day clothes.

The first and second links below are videos about how a typical bankruptcy hearing proceeds.  The second link provides additional information about the hearing which you may find informative.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qLUNckN7SsQ

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ialTcnKnYyM

https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=bankruptcy+creditors+meeting

Wednesday, February 4, 2015

Money Problems Are a Major Source of Stress in Life

More and more clients who come to see me are under more stress than ever, due to heavy debt, bills, and just the high cost of everyday life.  Not to mention a job that doesn't pay enough to support a family.

From student loans, child support (not receiving it or having to pay it), car loans, mortgage payments, electric, heat, food, children's activities, and unexpected expenses that come up out of nowhere, like car repairs and doctor visits, people have it coming from every angle.

The American Psychological Association has reported that 90% of Americans feel that their stress level about money has gotten worse or stayed the same.  Almost 3 out of 4 people stated that they were stressed about money at least one time in the last month.

While many people will do everything to avoid bankruptcy protection, filing for bankruptcy can provide a person in need with a fresh start he cannot obtain anywhere else.  Being free from debt not only will reduce the stress level, it also will free up extra money for the most important family expenses, especially when there is only so much money to go around. 

Because the newspaper does not publish name of people in bankruptcy, chances are you know at least one person who has sought help from a lawyer for the same problem.  Bankruptcy always should be the last resort, but, it should be an option to consider when you need to set things back in the right direction.