How to Cope with Bankruptcy and Divorce
When it comes to legal processes, bankruptcy and divorce are among the most stressful. The same goes for life in general. Unfortunately, the level of stress involved in filing bankruptcy can sometimes result in filing for divorce, or the other way around. What does this mean for you? It means it’s incredibly important to keep things organized so nothing falls through the cracks.
Which one first?
If you’re in a situation where bankruptcy and divorce are both on the table, saving money will likely be ideal. For this reason, you’d be smart to file a joint bankruptcy before getting divorced. Not only will this save you on court fees, you’ll also save on attorney fees. Something to note, however, is that it’s crucial that you divulge all information to the attorney you’re hiring, just as in any bankruptcy. In addition to cost savings, filing for bankruptcy before divorce will help to simplify any issues surrounding property division and debt, leading to lower costs during your divorce proceedings.
What type?
Not sure which type of bankruptcy is best for you? It depends on your financial situation and a number of other factors. A Chapter 7 will get rid of unsecured debts and can be completed in just a few months or so. A Chapter 13, on the other hand, lasts 3-5 years because it involves paying back your debt through a repayment plan.
If you’ve found yourself in a situation involving bankruptcy and divorce, a good idea is to contact an experienced bankruptcy attorney like Michael Burr to guide you through the process. Contact us to set up a free consultation today.