We’ve written a series of blog posts answering questions regarding Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Wisconsin and its financial impact. Call (262) 827-0375

How to Prepare for Bankruptcy: What to Avoid Before Filing

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If you’re considering filing for bankruptcy, it’s important to plan ahead, whether it is Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy. There are a number of strategies that you can use to make sure that your bankruptcy work most effectively to eliminate your debt. Once your bankruptcy is complete, you want to have a completely clean slate to begin your financial life anew.

Timing Is Crucial

Chapter 7 bankruptcy is the best choice for actually getting rid of your unsecured debt. It requires a means test, though; you can’t make more than the median household income based upon your family size for your state. For Wisconsin, the median household income in 2019 for a single filer (the most recent data) is $51,792, for a 2 person family is $67,146, a 3 person family is $82,119, and a 4 person family is $98,317. The calculation of your household income is made from all of your income for the six months prior to the month in which you file for bankruptcy. So if there are particular times of the year when you receive money, either in the form of a bonus from your work or a payout from an investment for instance, it would be wise to file for bankruptcy so that any extra income isn’t included. For instance, if you get a work bonus around the 20th of December every year, filing in December means that your household income is figured from June 1 through November 30. You want to avoid any extra money that might push your household income above the median for your state.

Credit Card Spending

When you are contemplating bankruptcy, it may be tempting to make a number of purchases on your credit cards. You may think that it is a good idea to use them while you still have them, and that it’s your final chance to buy something major. There is some truth to this thinking. With either Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you will no longer have access to your credit cards. However, it is important for you to know that some credit card debt can be determined non-dischargeable. If you go on a spending spree just before filing bankruptcy, your credit card company can claim those were fraudulent purchases, that you never intended to repay them, and request that they be declared non-dischargeable. You would need to be able to prove that you intended to repay them or that you didn’t plan to declare bankruptcy.

Presumed Fraudulence

There are some instances where the law presumes that your intent was fraudulent. If you use your credit cards in the three months before filing bankruptcy for luxury goods and services totaling more than $725, fraud is presumed (11 U.S.C. § 523(a)(2)(C)(i)(l). Likewise, If you use your credit cards for cash advances totaling more than $1,000 within 70 days before filing bankruptcy, fraud is presumed (11 U.S.C. § 523(a)(2)(C)(i)(l).

Necessary Spending

The designation of luxury goods is significant. The court will not penalize you for using your credit card for reasonable and necessary living expenses. So, while buying a new elliptical machine for your home would not be allowed, paying for your heating for the winter would. If you are considering getting a cash advance on your card in order to pay for necessary living expenses, it would be better to use your card to pay for the gas you need to get to work, and the groceries to feed your family.

If you’re contemplating filing for bankruptcy, the best advice is to speak to one of the bankruptcy experts at Burr Law. We can help inform your decision, and advise you based on your particular situation.

Should I File for Bankruptcy Before or After Christmas? How to Survive the Holidays

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When your finances are in disarray, it’s hard to enjoy let alone survive the holidays. You want to focus on your family and friends, not your financial difficulties. It’s hard to have the emotional capacity to consult an attorney about bankruptcy during this already emotionally challenging time of year. Yet, bankruptcy is a viable option, and it may be wisest for you to file before Christmas. Timing is crucial, and in this post, we look at the various factors you need to consider when making the decision to file for bankruptcy.

Two Types of Personal Bankruptcy

There are primarily two types of personal bankruptcy: Chapter 7 and Chapter 13. Chapter 7 bankruptcy takes only about four months from start to finish, and can eliminate almost all your debt. With Chapter 13 bankruptcy you retain your debt, and a way to pay off your obligations is worked out. It takes between three and five years. So the first thing to figure out when you are considering bankruptcy is whether or not you qualify for Chapter 7.

Income Matters

Filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy is means tested; you must not earn more than the median household income for your state. In Wisconsin, the median household income was $60,773 in 2018 (according to figures released by the US Census ACS on September 26, 2019). The size of your household matters as well, and the bankruptcy experts at Burr Law can help you know definitively whether or not you qualify for a Chapter 7 bankruptcy.

Timing Matters

Importantly, “income” excludes any money received during the actual calendar month in which you file. The median household income is determined by the numbers during the six calendar months prior to the filing. So, for instance, if you generally receive a holiday bonus in December, or your parents give you a monetary gift to help with presents for the children in December, it would be a good idea to file for bankruptcy before Christmas. Filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in December will mean that your household income will be calculated based on the numbers from June 1 through November 30. Survive the holidays by beginning the bankruptcy procedure when the means testing will work in your favor.

Non-dischargeable Debt

If you imagine that you can charge wonderful Christmas presents on your credit cards, and have a spectacular holiday, and then file for bankruptcy, that will not work at all. Bankruptcy law states that any debt incurred during the three months before or after Christmas that exceed $600 and that are not living necessities may be non-dischargeable debt. That particular creditor could file an adversary proceeding to determine that that debt is non-dischargeable. That means that you could be responsible for any purchases made during that time. When you file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, your credit card use will be carefully examined to determine whether or not charges were “necessary.” Those deemed unnecessary could be non-dischargeable debt, and you may remain responsible for them. So filing for bankruptcy before or after Christmas will not make any difference to the categorization of non-dischargeable debt. Other non-dischargeable debts are certain income tax owed, domestic support obligations, debts to governmental agencies, and student loan debt.

Surviving the holidays is even more difficult when your financial situation is a mess. Even though you may be reluctant to confront the situation before Christmas, it may make a big difference in what kind of bankruptcy you can file and how your income is calculated. Make the time to consult one of our bankruptcy professionals at Burr Law today.

When Does Bankruptcy Clear From Your Credit Report?

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If you’re considering filing for bankruptcy in Wisconsin, you probably have a lot of bankruptcy questions. It’s important for you to have all the information you need in order to make a truly sound decision, and in this post, we will look at one of the most commonly asked bankruptcy questions: When does bankruptcy clear from your credit report?

Credit reports are simply a fact of contemporary existence, and they are consulted every time you apply for a new credit card, or an automobile loan, or any type of financial undertaking. You may not be aware that in Wisconsin credit reports are also considered by landlords, and by some employers. So concern about your credit report is absolutely reasonable when making the decision to file for bankruptcy.

Filing for bankruptcy becomes part of the public record, so if anyone is truly interested in the bankruptcy filing itself, they can access that information.

Generally speaking, bankruptcy stays on your credit report in Wisconsin for about 10 years. Remember, though, that even if you don’t file bankruptcy, your creditors can obtain a judgment against you for your debt, and that judgment would appear on your credit report. A judgment can remain on your credit report for seven years or until the statute of limitations expires, whichever is longer. In Wisconsin, the statute of limitations on a judgment can be up to 20 years! So a bankruptcy may well fall off of your credit report before a particular judgment.

Bankruptcy will mean a drop in your credit score immediately after filing, but about 12 to 18 months after you receive your bankruptcy discharge your credit score should go up because your debtor to income ratio becomes much better than when you filed the bankruptcy. However, you may already have a poor credit score due to your debt-to-asset ratio (your debt is high compared to your available credit) and delinquent accounts; in that case, the decrease in your credit score may be less than you suppose. If your credit score was good before filing bankruptcy, the drop may be more pronounced.

The type of bankruptcy that you file may also affect how its presence on your credit report is viewed by prospective lenders. Chapter 7 Bankruptcy completely wipes out your debt by selling whatever eligible assets you have; Chapter 13 Bankruptcy sets up a three to five year plan to repay a portion of your debt. Obviously, prospective lenders would consider a Chapter 13 Bankruptcy in a more favorable light than a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy. When applying for credit after bankruptcy, you should be straightforward about the bankruptcy and your reasons for choosing that option.

Attorney Michael Burr and the Burr Law Offices can answer all of your bankruptcy questions. You concern about your credit report is certainly warranted, and we can help you understand all the implications of a decision to file bankruptcy. Consult the experts in Wisconsin bankruptcy law at the Burr Law Offices, and bring all your bankruptcy questions with you.

Bankruptcy Pros and Cons

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When you’re in financial distress, it can sometimes seem like there is no way out. There are all different kinds of reasons people find themselves flailing in a sea of debt. Whatever the reason, when creditors are circling sharks, bankruptcy may be the lifeboat you need. Over 12,000 Wisconsinites have filed bankruptcy so far this year (January 1 through September 30, 2019). In the Eastern District of Wisconsin (including Milwaukee and its surrounding areas), 9,466 bankruptcy cases have been recorded
(www.wiwb.ucourts.gov, www.wieb.uscourts.gov). So bankruptcy is neither shameful nor unusual.

Filing for bankruptcy is a serious decision, though. You want to have all the information and understand all the implications before proceeding. Let’s take a look at some of the bankruptcy pros and cons.

PRO: Bankruptcy Stops All Collection Activities By Any And All Creditors. When your debt is crippling, it comes with collection agents working relentlessly to extract money you don’t have. Letters that threaten dire consequences, phone calls that badger you at all times of day or night, these tactics can make you feel hunted, haunted, or both. The moment you file bankruptcy, all collection activities must stop, including any garnishment, foreclosure or repossession.

PRO: Bankruptcy Eliminates or Decreases Debt. With bankruptcy, all your unsecured debt is either eliminated or reduced. Most people file Chapter 7 Bankruptcy, and with that type, you don’t need to worry about any sort of repayment. “The entire process takes from 3-6 months, after which your debt is cleared” (David Chandler, https://www.consumeraffairs.com/finance/bankruptcy_02.html). Some people choose Chapter 13 Bankruptcy, and with that type, you do repay a portion of your debts, determined with the court. This process lasts from 3 to 5 years. In both cases, your debts are cleared, once and for all.

PRO: Bankruptcy Avoids Draining Resources. The bill collectors don’t care where you get the money to pay them, and you may be tempted to take it from your retirement funds, social security or other protected assets. When you declare bankruptcy, not all your assets are liable for your debt repayment. Social security and retirement funds are protected. Filing bankruptcy allows you to retain those protected assets while getting rid of the debt.

CON: Bankruptcy Means No Credit Cards Until You Receive Your Bankruptcy Discharge. While bankruptcy rids you of your debt, it also rids you of your credit cards. Not having credit cards makes some things more difficult. For instance, car rental agencies usually require credit cards; hotels often do too. It also means that unexpected large expenses cannot be paid with a credit card; car repairs may need to wait. Once you receive your bankruptcy discharge you can apply for credit, including credit cards and you should receive that credit or credit card.

CON: Bankruptcy Complicates Credit/Loan Prospects. Bankruptcy remains on your credit record for 10 years, and it can make getting an auto loan or other kind of loan more difficult, but not impossible. And while you may receive credit card offers shortly after declaring bankruptcy, they often come with high interest rates. Naturally, your credit rating will drop, but will improve and be back to normal about 1 year after bankruptcy discharge. Professional advice can assist in charting a positive strategy and ways to improve your credit score.

CON: Bankruptcy Becomes Public Record. When you file for bankruptcy, it becomes a matter of public record, and anyone can request those records. Except it will not appear on the State of Wisconsin, CCAP website, which list case filed in Wisconsin.

A Wisconsin legal team that specializes in Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy proceedings can help you make the right decision for you and your family. If you need help with dealing with debt in Wisconsin, Burr Law Office can provide you with practical solutions that suit your needs. We can help you make the best possible decisions for yourself, your family and your future. Call us today at (262) 827-0375 to schedule a free bankruptcy evaluation. At Burr Law Office, we are here to help.

Chapter 7 versus Chapter 13: Which Bankruptcy Suits You Best?

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One of the biggest challenges of managing your finances effectively is getting educated. When you’re running thin on money, time and patience, it’s extremely difficult to take a deep breath and chart out a recovery strategy.

Learning which kind of bankruptcy best matches your needs is the smartest way to advance in life. Here’s a quick rundown of what Wisconsin residents need to know about how Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcies differ.

Essential Bankruptcy Distinctions

Filing for bankruptcy is about getting the perspective and space you need to recover from a bad situation, but there are different ways to go about it. Although chapters 7 and 13 of the bankruptcy code are just two of the many laws that offer relief, they’re the most widely used by regular Americans.

When you seek Milwaukee Chapter 7 bankruptcy, or liquidation, you’re telling the court that you would like to discharge or wipe out your debts to your creditors. After confirming that you are either below median income based upon your family size or pass the means test, which takes into account your 6 months gross income prior to filing the bankruptcy and assessing your case, the court will appoint a trustee who administers your case. Your property becomes part of the bankruptcy estate, but when you file you will use the bankruptcy exemptions on your property, which will allow you to keep it and not have to turn it over to the trustee.

Filing a Milwaukee Chapter 13 bankruptcy, or reorganization, petition lets you signify that you want to resolve some or all of your debts gradually. You’ll need to come up with a three- to five-year repayment plan and get it approved by the trustee and the court. You will pay your creditors some percentage on the dollar, anywhere from 0% to 100% depending upon the nature of your debts, your income, and some other circumstances. Whatever percentage is not paid to creditors will be wiped out when you complete your chapter 13 plan and receive your chapter 13 discharge.

Quick Comparisons

There are many technical differences between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13. For instance, only individuals and sole-proprietor business owners can file for Chapter 13, but Chapter 7 is open to companies as well as private citizens.

Speed

Milwaukee Chapter 7 bankruptcy cases resolve faster than Chapter 13 filings. This is because a chapter 7 case lasts approximately 90 days and a chapter 13 has to run anywhere from 3 years to 5 years to be able to pay your creditors some percentage on the dollar.

Debt Resolution

Both types of bankruptcy let you permanently halt collections by enacting an automatic stay when you file. With Chapter 7, you might not be able to get current on your previous missed payments on secured debts like past due car payments, past due mortgage payments, or tax debts. This can make it harder to avoid actions like foreclosures after the stay period ends. In these instances you would want to consider a chapter 13, in which you pay off your vehicle, your mortgage arrears, and tax debts at reduced or nor interest and late charges and stop any type of foreclosure or repossession.

Debt Types

Milwaukee Chapter 13 bankruptcies and Chapter 7 filings also treat different forms of liabilities in distinct ways. For instance, a Chapter 13 relief-seeker can do things like eliminating unsecured property liens, such as those tied to second or third mortgages.

Feeling confused by all the details?

Everyone’s financial circumstances differ, so it’s critical to assess your situation with professional help. Talking to a dependable bankruptcy attorney at Burr Law Office lets you draw on insights that might make your bankruptcy journey more successful — no matter which type of filing you choose. Call (262) 827-0375 for a FREE bankruptcy consultation.

Helping Milwaukee & Waukesha Consumers Use Chapter 7 Bankruptcy

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It’s time to admit it. You’ve been unable to keep up with your debts, and they’re not magically going away. As the bills mounted, you knew you needed to act, but it wasn’t clear where to turn. Now that you’ve sunk into more debt than you can handle, however, you deserve a lifeline.

Fortunately, you’re not alone: The law may be on your side, and so are the attorneys at Burr Law Office. We can help you envision a brighter financial outlook by filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Milwaukee and Waukesha.

Why File for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy?

Chapter 7 bankruptcy takes its name from the section of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code that describes its rules. Although learning the law from end to end is a huge challenge, consumers can heighten their knowledge by starting with the basics:

  • Chapter 7 bankruptcies are founded on the act of liquidation — This is when your property gets sold to pay off as much of your debt as possible and get the creditors to go away for good.
  • Chapter 7 filings let you keep exempt property, such as the basic items you need to take care of your family, bank deposits up to $5,000, veterans’ benefits, unemployment compensation and professional tools.
  • Filing can help you erase many kinds of debts and halt various collection activities. It may be the right choice if you’re struggling with healthcare bills, overdue credit card fees or even court-ordered wage garnishments.
  • Although the rules require you to go through credit counseling, complete financial management classes, attend a trustee meeting and submit court fees, filing is relatively inexpensive — Most people pay less than $400 for lasting financial peace of mind.

Taking Advantage of Chapter 7 Bankruptcy in Milwaukee and Waukesha

Filing for Chapter 7 protects you by placing an automatic stay on collection activities — at least until your case has gone through the court. What’s the secret to making the most of such benefits in the short time allotted to you? It’s all about planning things thoroughly with an experienced legal advisor.

Although U.S. federal law trumps all else in determining how bankruptcy operates, Wisconsin imposes some of its own standards. For instance, your credit counseling course must be led by a state-approved provider. You’ll also have to pass a means test proving that your family income falls below the median for Wisconsin after subtracting certain approved expenses.

Being prepared is critical because the types of debts you owe might make it imperative to stick to an aggressive case schedule. Advanced planning also improves your odds of receiving permanent protection instead of just the temporary stay — If you can build a case that effectively demonstrates your hardship or lack of financial means, then the bankruptcy court is more likely to look on you favorably.

Put Your Chapter 7 Bankruptcy on Firm Ground

Get in touch with a Burr Law Office attorney. With decades of firsthand experience advocating for clients and working directly with Wisconsin’s neediest families, we’re proud to help you master the art of effective, legal debt relief. Schedule a free consultation now by calling (262) 827-0375

MasterCard Gold Credit Card debt bankruptcy

Bankruptcy and the Credit Card Debt Crisis

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Millions of Americans struggle with debt. This is nothing new, but in modern times, we face a problem that previous generations never had. People are drowning in credit card debt.

Are you struggling with credit card payments? Filing for credit card debt bankruptcy may be the best choice. Here’s how the process works and why getting a Wisconsin bankruptcy attorney might help.

Bankruptcy and Credit Card Debt

The many bankruptcy laws in the U.S. are divided into chapters. Each chapter describes a specific kind of bankruptcy.

Chapter 7, or liquidation, bankruptcy lets you sell, or liquidate, your assets to raise enough money to pay off the creditors.

Chapter 13, or reorganization, bankruptcy is where you work with your creditors to come up with a repayment plan.

Choosing Your Debt Strategy

Which bankruptcy chapter is best for handling credit card debt? The size of your overdue bill, your employment status and other factors might force you to pick one or the other.

The laws can make things confusing. For instance, Chapter 13 is designed for people with enough income to repay their liabilities gradually. At the same time, it’s restricted to people whose debts fall below maximum limits.

Chapter 7 is the most common form of bankruptcy. As with Chapter 13, there are eligibility limits, but they apply to your income. Talking to a lawyer could make it easier to navigate these rules properly.

Putting Credit Card Debt Into Perspective

How big is the U.S. credit card debt epidemic? In late 2018, NerdWallet reported that these liabilities topped out at more than $420 billion. That’s a lot of money to owe, and almost 10 percent of people surveyed thought they’d be stuck with credit card debt for the rest of their lives.

Credit card debt that balloons out of control isn’t uncommon. The NerdWallet study also found that households with credit card debt typically had an average of $6,929 in revolving balances. Combined with the huge interest rates that most credit cards charge, these sums have the potential to ruin people’s lives.

Is Bankruptcy the Best Option? Dispelling Common Myths

Filing for bankruptcy under Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 doesn’t mean losing all of your possessions. Most necessities are exempt, and the idea isn’t to fill your life with hardships anyway. Instead, it’s all about making it easier for you to bounce back.

Credit card debt bankruptcy doesn’t ruin your credit either. If you’re considering filing, then it’s likely that the credit rating damage has already been done. Petitioning the bankruptcy court to help you resolve your credit card debts is the most logical option. It wipes the slate clean and moves you toward greater financial responsibility.

To talk with a local bankruptcy lawyer experienced in clearing away burdensome credit card debt, call Burr Law Office today at (262) 827-0375.

How to Pay for Bankruptcy?

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How to Pay for Bankruptcy | Waukesha, WIFiling for bankruptcy can be expensive. Hiring an attorney and paying court filing fees can cost you anywhere from hundreds to several thousand dollars. When you’re in tough financial shape, this added cost can seem stressful…and even impossible.

Don’t fear: you have options. Here is a breakdown of what bankruptcy costs and how to afford it.

The Cost of Bankruptcy

Filing for bankruptcy comes with two types of expenses: court filing fees and attorney fees.

An attorney is critical to filing for bankruptcy, as they help file your petition, represent you in court, and take over communication with your creditors.

The two types of bankruptcy are Chapter 7, in which most or all of your debts are forgiven, and Chapter 13, in which your debts are reorganized into a repayment plan.

Here is an estimated breakdown of what you can expect to pay*:

Chapter 7 Chapter 13
Court Filing Fees $335 $310
Attorney Fees $1,000 – $1,500 /
$200 down		 $1,500 – $6,000
Total $835 – $1,835 $1,810 – $6,310

*Please note, attorney fees vary greatly based on location and complexity of your case.

When filing Chapter 13 bankruptcy, the court will review your attorney fees to find out if they’re reasonable.

(At Burr Law office, we offer monthly payment plans starting with as little as $100 down.)

Your Bankruptcy Payment Options

If you are filing Chapter 7, you may be required to pay your attorney fees before they file your case. The reasoning behind this is: if you are granted Chapter 7, all unsecured debts are wiped out, including any outstanding attorney fees.

If you cannot afford these costs, you have three options:

  • Raise the money.
  • Establish a payment plan.
  • Find a pro-bono attorney, or one who will take your case without charging a fee.
  1. Raising the money. Use these steps to minimize your expenses and save enough to cover your costs:
    1. Stop payment on credit cards. If you’re planning to file for bankruptcy, continuing to pay your credit cards is not useful. Save that money and put it toward your bankruptcy costs.
    2. Secure additional income. Sell big-ticket items, like furniture or electronics, or find part-time employment.
    3. Ask family or friends for help.
    4. As a last resort, you can borrow against your 401(k) or IRA. However, doing so may deplete the money you will need in retirement.
  1. Using a payment plan. The right attorney may agree to payment in installments. Ask the lawyer you are considering about their payment plan policy during your initial meeting. Please note: most attorneys will require payment upfront before filing a Chapter 7 bankruptcy case.

Your attorney may also work with the court to allow you to pay your court filing fee in installments.

  1. Finding a pro-bono attorney. If your household income is less than 150% of the federal poverty line for your family size, you may qualify for free legal assistance. You have several options for finding a pro bono attorney:
    1. Reach out to your local bankruptcy court to request information on local free legal aid resources and free legal clinics. These organizations may be able to connect you with free legal assistance, but be aware: legal aid organizations are often extremely busy and understaffed.
    2. Research The American Bankruptcy Institute’s bankruptcy attorney directory for more pro bono resources in your area.
    3. Contact your state’s bar association to inquire about free legal aid. Some attorneys are required to take on 10%-15% of their caseloads as pro bono work.
    4. Consider hiring a petition preparer instead of a lawyer. If you’re in a rush to file your bankruptcy, a petition preparer will help you fill out paperwork for an hourly fee. Though they can’t give you legal advice like an attorney would, a petition preparer is a good solution if you are looking to quickly trigger the automatic stay that halts collection efforts.
    5. Finally, we strongly advise against filing on your own without the help of an attorney or petition preparer. Bankruptcy filing is an extremely complicated process and it is easy to make mistakes, which could lead the court to throw out your case.

When making decisions about bankruptcy, you may feel that the deck is stacked against you. But remember: you have options. And if you’re in the Milwaukee area, the experts at Burr Law Office are here to help. We have earned a reputation as experienced advocates, and can help you reclaim your life and get a fresh start. Give us a call today at (262) 827-0375!

 

Getting the Most of Your Chapter 7

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Given the circumstances of filing for bankruptcy, everyone wants the process to be as comfortable as possible. There are a number of things you can do to help make make your Milwaukee Chapter 7 go smoothly. Take a look at these tips and contact Burr Law Office LLC for more information.

Stay organized

One of the most crucial elements to a successful filing is paperwork. Your legal documents like bank statements, pay stubs, tax returns, and others need to be well organized so they can be accessed at any point during the process. This also helps to ease communication and build trust with everyone involved.

Don’t be afraid to talk

You don’t need to go blabbing to anyone and everyone who will listen, but discussing your financial situation with trusted family members or friends can help you cope. Plus, they may know someone else that’s gone through something similar and have some advice to offer.

This isn’t forever

The most important thing to help ease the pain of filing for bankruptcy is this: it won’t be like this forever. The process may be difficult, and you’ll likely experience quite a bit of stress, but life will go on. If you don’t allow yourself to see the light at the end of the tunnel, you’re making it more difficult for yourself.

To learn more about Milwaukee Chapter 7 bankruptcy, contact attorney Michael Burr at Burr Law Office LLC for a free consultation. He will be happy to assist you with your case!

Legal Aid Milwaukee: Tips for Filing a Chapter 7

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Filing for bankruptcy can be a daunting process, but when done correctly it an provide great relief to the debtor. Working with an experienced attorney like Michael Burr is the best way to give yourself the best legal aid Milwaukee has to offer. Here are a few tips if you’re considering a Chapter 7 bankruptcy.

Consider what’s ahead

Before filing for Chapter 7, it’s important to look to the future. Major financial events can have a great effect on the process; having a child, needing a new car, getting a promotion at work, and many others. By planning ahead for these things, whenever possible, you can help ease stress when they arise.

Seek support

While conversations about finances with friends and family can be difficult, the process will be much easier if you have the support of loved ones. Seeking out external sources of advice and support is crucial, especially if they themselves have experienced bankruptcy and can offer guidance.

Be pessimistic and optimistic

It’s confusing, but helpful. When filing for Chapter 7, the best way to approach the situation is to prepare for the worst and hope for the best. If you know what will happen if things go south and prepare ahead of time, you’ll better be able to handle things.

If you’re considering filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, and need a Chapter 7 bankruptcy lawyer, contact attorney Michael Burr for the best legal aid Milwaukee has to offer. Ease yourself of financial burdens and call 262-827-0375 to schedule your free consultation today!