Tag Archive for: Bankruptcy Attorney

Should you Reaffirm a Mortgage In Bankruptcy?

My answer is NO.

Reaffirming a debt means that if you don’t make your future payments the mortgage company can sue you for the balance due after your Chapter 7 is over.   The debt is not discharged if you reaffirmed the debt.

Debtors are required to reaffirm their car loans in bankruptcy in order to keep their vehicles, even if they are current on the vehicle.  Mortgages are a different story however, you can just continue to pay the mortgage and keep the house, without reaffirming the debt.  The mortgage company will not report your mortgage payments, on time or late to the credit bureaus.

If the debtor stops paying the mortgage and has not reaffirmed the debt, the most the mortgage company can do is to take the house back in foreclosure.  The mortgage company will not be able to obtain a personal judgment against you if you have a bankruptcy discharge and did not reaffirm the debt.

This means if later you decided you do not want to keep the home any longer, you can strategically default on your mortgage and just walk away.  This is very valuable.

Why would you consider reaffirming a mortgage then?

If the mortgage company agrees to modify one or more of the mortgage terms so the mortgage is more beneficial to the Debtors you could consider reaffirming.   Possible modifications terms could be a lower interest rate, a lower monthly payment, placing arrears on the back end of the mortgage, or deeming a default current on your credit report.

Reaffirming a mortgage debt requires a complex multi-page agreement which must be approved by the Court.  Unless the Debtor is receiving a  benefit from the mortgage company, most attorneys will not sign off on the agreement and it will require a court hearing.

 

Carol A. Lawson, Esq., 28870 U.S. Hwy 19 #300, Hodusa Towers, Clearwater, FL 33761

Phone: (727) 410-2705;   email: calh@gate.net

 Clearwater Bankruptcy Attorney, Clearwater Bankruptcy Lawyer, Clearwater Bankruptcy, Clearwater Estate Planning Attorney,  Pinellas Estate Planning Attorney, Pinellas Probate Attorney #FileLocallyDontOverpay #ClearwaterBankruptcy #ClearwaterBankruptcyAttorney

Failure to Disclose Claim in Bankruptcy Petition

Lewis v. Portfolio Recovery Associates, LLC 

The Debtor filed a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy in NJ.  The Debtor did not disclose his FDCPA action and received a discharge.

The debtor  then filed a lawsuit alleging the defendant sent him a letter in an attempt to collect a debt that contained a “mini-Miranda” warning in a box entitled “Account Details.” According to the debtor, by mislabeling his legal rights as “Account Details,” the defendant’s correspondence was misleading and designed to confuse the debtor as to the nature of the debt and his rights.

Portfolio Recovery Associates argued that the debtor lacked standing to sue because he failed to schedule the lawsuit as a personal asset. 

 Section 541(a)(1) of title 11 of the U.S. Code provides that a bankruptcy estate comprises “all legal or equitable interests of the debtor in property as of the commencement of the case.” In re Allen, 768 F.3d 274, 281 (3d Cir. 2014). The scope of Section 541(a)(1) is broad, and includes possible legal causes action. Id. It imposes upon a debtor an ongoing affirmative obligation to disclose all assets and liabilities to the bankruptcy court before discharge, including pending and contingent claims. A failure to list an asset as property of the bankruptcy estate does not prevent it from becoming property of the estate.

With regards to undisclosed claims see  Schafer v. Decision One Mortg. Corp., 2009 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 56639, *12 (E.D. Pa. July 1, 2009). In order for a debtor to obtain standing, the trustee must abandon the unscheduled claim, whether voluntarily or pursuant to a court order. 11 U.S.C. § 554(a)-(b).

 

Carol A. Lawson, Esq., 28870 U.S. Hwy 19 #300, Hodusa Towers, Clearwater, FL 33761

Phone: (727) 410-2705;   email: calh@gate.net

 Clearwater Bankruptcy Attorney, Clearwater Bankruptcy Lawyer, Clearwater Bankruptcy, Clearwater Estate Planning Attorney,  Pinellas Estate Planning Attorney, Pinellas Probate Attorney #FileLocallyDontOverpay #ClearwaterBankruptcy #ClearwaterBankruptcyAttorney #ClearwaterEstatePlanning #ClearwaterProbate

Survival Skills You Learn When You’re in Debt

Guest Blog- by Oak View Law Group, Author Ian Caldwell

Being in debt is not always bad. Are you astonished? You shouldn’t. Every experience teaches you some valuable things in life, and “being in debt” is not an exception. Though it is not advisable to invite “debt” in your life. However, experiencing debt problems teaches you some valuable aspects of ‘money’ and ‘money management’ which perhaps is difficult to learn. One thing is sure. Being in debt once will perhaps help you on how to ?avoid debt problems for the rest of your life.

A person, who has successfully got out debt, knows the following:

One cannot run away from the problems – One of my friends once told me that she used to avoid the problems and she was scared to face it. What happened was she increased her debt load. This taught her a lesson that instead of avoiding the debt problems, she needs to face it head on. So, if you’re in debt, address the issues and find a way to solve the problem. You may find credit card consolidation to be one effective way of overcoming your debt-related troubles. In addition to this, there are so many professionals out there that are experts at helping people in your situation. Whether your debt is small or you are in personal bankruptcy, have a look around for a company like Bankruptcy Alberta who can be there to help.

 

To plan a suitable budget –Budgeting is the most basic aspect of financial management and no one knows this better than a person who has experienced major debt problems. To be debt free, you have to plan a suitable budget, which can help you save a decent amount as per your situation. Planning a “suitable budget” might be a bit difficult for you initially, but with time, you’d be able to master the art. With initial hiccups, gradually, you’ll come to know what works for you the best.

To set savings goals –Can you be successful in life without a goal? Definitely ‘No’. Similarly, you need to have savings goals to achieve your financial goal – be it becoming debt free or building a solid financial future. The goal which you set should be achievable so that it motivates you to achieve it within the period you’ve thought. Set a definite amount. For example, you want to repay $1000 within 2 months or want to save $12,000 in a year, etc.

To make savings automatic –If you opt for automatic savings, then you won’t have to worry about saving a required amount every month. You will first save and then spend the remaining amount. Though it might become a bit difficult initially since you’ll have less amount to spend along with managing your required bill payments.

Not to hesitate to start small –Are you thinking that your salary is too less to start saving a decent amount every month? If you have experienced debt problems, you know that you need to save and meet your daily necessities irrespective of your paycheck amount. If you think wisely, you’ll find that saving a small amount is not so difficult. For example, you can start by saving at least $25-$50 every month. This way you can save at least $100 a month, which you can use to reduce your debt load or increase your savings. Just think – saving $100 a month is actually saving $1200 annually. By doing so, the habit of saving will be reinforced and you’ll be motivated to save more.

To look for an extra earning opportunity –An extra income every month is always a bliss. So, don’t worry about how much you’re earning from a part-time job. A person struggling to overcome debt problems can use this amount to get out of debt. A person in debt knows the significance of an extra earning opportunity. To earn extra, you can look for summer jobs or event-oriented jobs. Some retailers employ extra people during Labor Day and Thanksgiving Day sales since they have to cater to a comparatively large number of customers. You can look for these jobs to earn some extra dollars.

Live with debt for some time –A person who has solved his/her debt problems knows that he/she will have to accept the situation of being in debt and have to live life with it for some time. This doesn’t mean that he/she has to focus only on paying off debt. Definitely, getting out of debt will be one major aspect but he/she has to pay attention to other day-to-day things, too.

So, if you’re struggling to overcome your debt problems or want to avoid falling in debt, practice these strategies and you can be assured that you’re on the right track of managing your finances effectively. You can also look at contacting businesses such as CreditAssociates to help you manage your debt in the best way possible for you.

Related Articles

Unpaid Debt and the Statute of Limitations

Debt Collection Calls

Debt Collector’s Calling?

 

 

Carol A. Lawson, Esq., 28870 U.S. Hwy 19 #300, Hodusa Towers, Clearwater, FL 33761

Phone: (727) 410-2705;   email: calh@gate.net

 Clearwater Bankruptcy Attorney, Clearwater Bankruptcy Lawyer, Clearwater Bankruptcy, Clearwater Estate Planning Attorney,  Pinellas Estate Planning Attorney, Pinellas Probate Attorney #FileLocallyDontOverpay #ClearwaterBankruptcy #ClearwaterBankruptcyAttorney #ClearwaterEstatePlanning #ClearwaterProbate

What Debts Does Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Wipe Out?

  • Credit Card Debts
  • Hospital Bills
  • Most Lawsuit Judgments
  • Wage Garnishments
  • Payday Loans
  • Utility Bills
  • Foreclosure Deficiency Balances
  • Vehicle Repossession Deficiency Balances

In Chapter 13 Bankruptcy, the remaining balance of these debts, if any, is WIPED OUT after making monthly payments for 36-60 months.  Schedule your free bankruptcy consultation to learn more.

 

Carol A. Lawson, Esq., 28870 U.S. Hwy 19 #300, Hodusa Towers, Clearwater, FL 33761

Phone: (727) 410-2705;   email: calh@gate.net

 Clearwater Bankruptcy Attorney, Clearwater Bankruptcy Lawyer, Clearwater Bankruptcy, Clearwater Estate Planning Attorney,  Pinellas Estate Planning Attorney, Pinellas Probate Attorney #FileLocallyDontOverpay #ClearwaterBankruptcy #ClearwaterBankruptcyAttorney #ClearwaterEstatePlanning #ClearwaterProbate

How Do I Qualify For a Chapter 13?

    • I Have Regular Income
    • I Don’t Qualify For A Chapter 7 under the Means Test
    • I want to Save a House in Foreclosure
    • I want to Save A Car From Repossion
    • My Unsecured Debts (Like Credit Cards) Are Under $419,275*
    • My Secured Debts (Like Mortgages) Are Under $1,257,850*  

 

 

Carol A. Lawson, Esq., 28870 U.S. Hwy 19 #300, Hodusa Towers, Clearwater, FL 33761

Phone: (727) 410-2705;   email: calh@gate.net

 Clearwater Bankruptcy Attorney, Clearwater Bankruptcy Lawyer, Clearwater Bankruptcy, Clearwater Estate Planning Attorney,  Pinellas Estate Planning Attorney, Pinellas Probate Attorney #FileLocallyDontOverpay #ClearwaterBankruptcy #ClearwaterBankruptcyAttorney #ClearwaterEstatePlanning #ClearwaterProbate

  • *As of April 1, 2019

What Does Chapter 13 Do?

  • Stop Foreclosures
  • Cure Mortgage Loan Delinquency
  • Reduce Principal Debt On Car Loans
  • Wipe Out Second Mortgages
  • Stop IRS Collections

 

 

Carol A. Lawson, Esq., 28870 U.S. Hwy 19 #300, Hodusa Towers, Clearwater, FL 33761

Phone: (727) 410-2705;   email: calh@gate.net

 Clearwater Bankruptcy Attorney, Clearwater Bankruptcy Lawyer, Clearwater Bankruptcy, Clearwater Estate Planning Attorney,  Pinellas Estate Planning Attorney, Pinellas Probate Attorney #FileLocallyDontOverpay #ClearwaterBankruptcy #ClearwaterBankruptcyAttorney #ClearwaterEstatePlanning #ClearwaterProbate

Qualifying For A Chapter 7

  • Your Income Barely Covers Your Bills
  • You Can Pass The Bankruptcy “Means Test” Or You Have Exceptional Circumstances
  • You Don’t Have Enough Assets To Pay Off Your Debts
  • Your Debts are Non-Consumer
  • You are a Business Liquidating

 

 

Carol A. Lawson, Esq., 28870 U.S. Hwy 19 #300, Hodusa Towers, Clearwater, FL 33761

Phone: (727) 410-2705;   email: calh@gate.net

 Clearwater Bankruptcy Attorney, Clearwater Bankruptcy Lawyer, Clearwater Bankruptcy, Clearwater Estate Planning Attorney,  Pinellas Estate Planning Attorney, Pinellas Probate Attorney #FileLocallyDontOverpay #ClearwaterBankruptcy #ClearwaterBankruptcyAttorney #ClearwaterEstatePlanning #ClearwaterProbate

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Overview

This is a slide show presentation on Chapter 13 click  the link to continue

https://www.haikudeck.com/copy-of-haiku-deck-in-action-business-presentation-74c47b369e

 

Carol A. Lawson, Esq., 28870 U.S. Hwy 19 #300, Hodusa Towers, Clearwater, FL 33761

Phone: (727) 410-2705;   email: calh@gate.net

 Clearwater Bankruptcy Attorney, Clearwater Bankruptcy Lawyer, Clearwater Bankruptcy, Clearwater Estate Planning Attorney,  Pinellas Estate Planning Attorney, Pinellas Probate Attorney #FileLocallyDontOverpay #ClearwaterBankruptcy #ClearwaterBankruptcyAttorney #ClearwaterEstatePlanning #ClearwaterProbate

Memorial Day Sale

Our Memorial Day Sale Now through  June 9th, 2019 pay you Chapter 7 in full at the consultation and receive $50 discount  (regular price is $795.00) for active military the discount is $100.   Call Now (727) 410-2705! Mention this post for discount.

 

 

Carol A. Lawson, Esq., 28870 U.S. Hwy 19 #300, Hodusa Towers, Clearwater, FL 33761

Phone: (727) 410-2705;   email: calh@gate.net

 Clearwater Bankruptcy Attorney, Clearwater Bankruptcy Lawyer, Clearwater Bankruptcy, Clearwater Estate Planning Attorney,  Pinellas Estate Planning Attorney, Pinellas Probate Attorney #FileLocallyDontOverpay #ClearwaterBankruptcy #ClearwaterBankruptcyAttorney #ClearwaterEstatePlanning #ClearwaterProbate

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Carol A. Lawson, Esq., 28870 U.S. Hwy 19 #300, Hodusa Towers, Clearwater, FL 33761

Phone: (727) 410-2705;   email: calh@gate.net

 Clearwater Bankruptcy Attorney, Clearwater Bankruptcy Lawyer, Clearwater Bankruptcy, Clearwater Estate Planning Attorney,  Pinellas Estate Planning Attorney, Pinellas Probate Attorney #FileLocallyDontOverpay #ClearwaterBankruptcy #ClearwaterBankruptcyAttorney #ClearwaterEstatePlanning #ClearwaterProbate