5 Signs You Might Need a Personal Bankruptcy Attorney for Your Financial Situation

In today’s economic landscape, financial challenges can arise unexpectedly, leaving individuals overwhelmed and uncertain about their options. Whether it’s mounting debt, foreclosure threats, or creditor harassment, navigating through such crises can be daunting without proper guidance. Fortunately, seeking the assistance of a knowledgeable personal bankruptcy attorney can provide clarity and relief in times of financial distress. Here are five signs that indicate you may need the expertise of a personal bankruptcy attorney to navigate your financial situation effectively:

1. Overwhelming Debt Burden:

If you find yourself drowning in a sea of debt with no feasible repayment plan in sight, it may be time to consult a personal bankruptcy attorney. Whether your debt stems from credit cards, medical bills, or loans, an attorney can assess your financial situation and recommend the best course of action. They can help you explore options such as Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy to alleviate your debt burden and achieve a fresh financial start.

2. Threat of Foreclosure:

Are you facing the risk of losing your home due to missed mortgage payments or foreclosure proceedings? Seeking the assistance of a personal bankruptcy attorney can provide crucial support in negotiating with lenders and exploring alternatives such as mortgage modification or bankruptcy protection. With their expertise, you can work towards saving your home and securing a more manageable repayment plan that aligns with your financial circumstances.

3. Persistent Creditor Harassment:

Dealing with incessant calls and letters from creditors can be emotionally taxing and exacerbate an already stressful situation. A personal bankruptcy attorney can intervene on your behalf and put an end to creditor harassment through legal channels. By filing for bankruptcy, you can benefit from an automatic stay, which prohibits creditors from engaging in collection activities, providing you with much-needed relief and peace of mind.

4. Declining Credit Score and Financial Health:

A deteriorating credit score and worsening financial health are red flags that warrant immediate attention. Rather than allowing your financial situation to spiral out of control, consulting a personal bankruptcy attorney can help you assess your options and take proactive steps to mitigate further damage. By addressing your financial challenges head-on, you can begin the journey towards rebuilding your credit and securing a more stable financial future.

5. Complex Legal Procedures:

Bankruptcy laws can be intricate and complex, making it essential to enlist the expertise of a qualified attorney who specializes in personal bankruptcy cases. From navigating paperwork and court proceedings to representing your interests effectively, an experienced attorney can guide you through the entire bankruptcy process with professionalism and diligence. By entrusting your case to a knowledgeable legal professional, you can minimize errors, expedite proceedings, and maximize the likelihood of a favorable outcome.

In conclusion, recognizing the signs that indicate the need for a personal bankruptcy attorney is the first step towards regaining control of your financial future. Whether you’re facing overwhelming debt, foreclosure threats, or creditor harassment, seeking legal guidance can provide invaluable support and peace of mind. With their expertise and advocacy, a personal bankruptcy attorney can help you navigate through challenging times and emerge with a fresh start towards financial stability and independence.

Lewis and Jurnovoy is a local law office serving the Florida Panhandle. We specialize in bankruptcy law, including Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy. We will work to achieve the best financial remedy for your outstanding debts.

Lewis & Jurnovoy PCB
2714 West 15th St
Panama City, FL 32401
(850) 913-9110
https://www.LewisandJurnovoy.com

How Long Does Bankruptcy Stay on My Credit History?

Have you recently been through bankruptcy, or are you considering filing for one? If so, you may be wondering how long a bankruptcy will stay on your credit history and if there is anything you can do to reduce the time it remains. Well, the answer is complicated, but our best lawyer to declare bankruptcy does have some answers. Let’s talk about the specifics of this issue.  

Bankruptcy Types and Length of Stay on Credit Reports 

The type of bankruptcy you file impacts how long it will stay on your credit report. A Chapter 7 bankruptcy will typically remain on your credit report for 10 years after the date of filing, while a Chapter 13 bankruptcy will usually remain for seven years after filing. In both cases, these removals are done automatically, so you don’t need to initiate any kind of removal process yourself.  

Can Bankruptcy Be Removed from My Credit More Quickly? 

If you notice any incorrect information or omissions on your credit report related to the bankruptcy, you can dispute those items with these three bureaus to get them removed or corrected. 

• Experian® 
• Equifax® 
• TransUnion® 

This could lead to faster removal of the bankruptcy filing from your credit report. 

Rebuilding Credit After Bankruptcy 

It’s important to remember that the negative effects of bankruptcy don’t last forever — it’s possible to rebuild your credit after you’ve gone through this process. To do so, focus on paying all bills on time and keeping your credit utilization ratio low. You can also get a co-signer or ask a family member with good credit if you can become an authorized user. 

What Do I Do Now? 

If you would like more information on how long bankruptcy stays on your credit history, or if you need any advice on the best way to handle your debt situation, contact your local bankruptcy attorneys today for more assistance. 

Lewis and Jurnovoy is a local law office serving the Florida Panhandle. We specialize in bankruptcy law, including Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy. We will work to achieve the best financial remedy for your outstanding debts. 

Lewis & Jurnovoy PCB 
2714 West 15th St 
Panama City, FL 32401 
(850) 913-9110 
https://www.LewisandJurnovoy.com 

How to Avoid Vehicle Repossession During Bankruptcy

Filing for bankruptcy is a cumbersome experience, and this process can be even more overwhelming if your car is on the brink of being repossessed. Fortunately, Lewis & Jurnovoy’s team of experienced bankruptcy specialists have some helpful advice to prevent repossession during such trying times. Let us look at how you can safeguard your vehicle throughout this complex process. 

Safeguard Your Rights as a Debtor  

Filing for bankruptcy will immediately trigger an automatic stay on all debt collection activities such as property repossession. This means that creditors are not allowed to take your car while the bankruptcy process is occurring. But keep in mind that this measure of protection only applies if you properly and promptly file for bankruptcy. If any issues arise with paperwork or deadlines are missed, then the automatic stay could be removed again, leaving you exposed to asset seizure once more. 

Take Action to Shield Your Vehicle 

First, learn about state and federal laws concerning repossessions so that you comprehend what rights apply to debtors like yourself. Moreover, don’t wait – contact the creditor immediately when it’s clear repo might happen – this will let them understand your dilemma and possibly form a partnership with you to find an effective solution. Finally, if warranted, consider investing in insurance or storage coverage to ensure that your vehicle remains secure and guarded during the entire process. 

Filing for bankruptcy can feel like a frightening and daunting process, particularly when you’re worried about the repossession of your primary mode of transportation. However, with Martin Lewis and Steven Jurnovoy from Lewis & Jurnovoy by your side every step of the way, it doesn’t have to be so overwhelming! They understand what an immense burden this situation may present—so let them assist you in making sure everything goes as smoothly as possible. 

Lewis and Jurnovoy is a local law office serving the Florida Panhandle. We specialize in bankruptcy law, including Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy. We will work to achieve the best financial remedy for your outstanding debts.   

Lewis & Jurnovoy, P.A.  
2714 West 15th St  
Panama City, FL 32401  
(850) 913-9110  
https://www.LewisandJurnovoy.com   

What You Need to Know About a 341 Meeting

A 341 meeting—also known as a Meeting of Creditors—is an important part of the bankruptcy process. It is a hearing where creditors can ask questions about the debtor’s financial situation and assets. The meeting is conducted by the trustee assigned to the case, and it usually takes place in a courtroom or conference room. The leading debt defense attorneys in Panama City are sharing what to expect at a 341 meeting to help make sure that you are prepared for it. 

What Happens at a 341 Meeting? 

At a 341 meeting, creditors have the opportunity to ask questions related to the debtor’s financial situation and assets. The trustee will also ask questions about any discrepancies between the debtor’s filed paperwork and what they own or owe. It is important that you answer all questions honestly and accurately during this hearing. Failure to do so could result in your case being dismissed or delayed due to fraud charges. 

The trustee will also review your paperwork, including bank statements, tax returns, pay stubs, loan agreements, credit card statements, and other documents related to your finances. If you are missing any documents or information requested by the trustee during this review period, they may demand that you provide them before continuing with the hearing. 

How To Prepare for Your 341 Meeting 

It is important to be prepared for your 341 meeting by gathering all necessary documents beforehand. This includes pay stubs, bank statements, loan agreements, credit card statements, tax returns, and other documents relating to your finances. Additionally, you should be familiar with any discrepancies between what is listed in these documents regarding assets and debts versus what you own or owe so that you can address them if asked by the trustee during your hearing.  Additionally, make sure that you are dressed appropriately for court; as with any legal proceeding, there is an expected level of decorum that must be adhered to while in attendance at the 341 meetings. 

A 341 meeting—or Meeting of Creditors—is an important step in filing for bankruptcy protection under Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code. During this hearing creditors have an opportunity to ask questions about your financial situation and assets while also reviewing any documentation related thereto; it’s important then that you come prepared with all required paperwork to ensure that your case moves forward without delay or dismissal due to fraud charges. Familiarizing yourself with what will happen at this hearing as well as how best to prepare for it can help ensure smooth sailing through this crucial stage of filing for bankruptcy protection under U.S. Bankruptcy Code Chapters 7 or 13. If you or someone you love are considering filing for bankruptcy, contact Lewis and Jurnovoy today.  

Lewis and Jurnovoy is a local law office serving the Florida Panhandle. We specialize in bankruptcy law, including Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy. We will work to achieve the best financial remedy for your outstanding debts.  

Lewis & Jurnovoy, P.A. 
2714 West 15th St 
Panama City, FL 32401 
(850) 913-9110 
https://www.LewisandJurnovoy.com  

Everything You Need to Know About Bankruptcy if You’re Unemployed

Filing for bankruptcy is a difficult decision to make. If you’re in need of debt relief, considering filing for bankruptcy, and are unemployed, there are a few important things you should know. Bankruptcy lawyers, Lewis & Jurnovoy, are explaining what you should know about the different types of bankruptcy and how being unemployed might affect which chapter of bankruptcy you file under.  

What is bankruptcy? 

Bankruptcy is a legal process that provides debt relief for individuals and businesses who can’t repay their debts. When you file for bankruptcy, an “automatic stay” goes into effect. This means that creditors can’t try to collect on your debts, at least temporarily.  

There are several types of bankruptcies, but the two most common are Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcies.  

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy: Chapter 7 bankruptcy is also known as “liquidation bankruptcy.” With this type of bankruptcy, you may be able to wipe out some or all your debt. To qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you must pass the “means test.” This test looks at your income and compares it to the median income in your state. If your income is below the median income, you may be eligible for Chapter 7 bankruptcy.  

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy: Chapter 13 bankruptcy is also known as “reorganization bankruptcy.” With this type of bankruptcy, you create a repayment plan to repay all or part of your debt over a period of three to five years. In order to qualify for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, your debts must be below a certain amount, and you must have a regular source of income.  

Can I file for bankruptcy if I’m unemployed?  

The answer is yes, but it might not be the best option for you. If you don’t have any assets and don’t expect to have any income in the near future, Chapter 7 bankruptcy might not be the best option because there would be nothing for the trustee to sell to pay off your debts. In this case, Chapter 13 bankruptcy might be a better option because it doesn’t require that you have assets in order to qualify.  

Filing for bankruptcy is a difficult decision, but if you’re considering it or need Chapter 13 assistance, Lewis & Jurnovoy P.A. can guide you through this process and help you get the fresh start that you deserve.   

Lewis and Jurnovoy is a local law office serving the Florida Panhandle. We specialize in bankruptcy law, including Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy. We will work to achieve the best financial remedy for your outstanding debts. 

Lewis & Jurnovoy PCB 
2714 West 15th St 
Panama City, FL 32401 
(850) 913-9110 
https://www.LewisandJurnovoy.com 

Top Tips to Stay Out of Debt and Fight Inflation

Inflation is on the rise, and that can mean trouble for your household finances. The cost of groceries, transportation, and other everyday expenses can go up while your income stays the same. This can lead to you falling into debt. However, there are things you can do to stay out of debt and deal with rising inflation rates. In this blog post, leaders in debt relief aid will discuss some simple tips you can use to fight inflation and protect your finances!  

Pay Off High-Interest Debt  

Paying down high-interest debt should be a top priority if you’re looking to save money and keep ahead of inflation. By chipping away at what you owe, you’ll not only save money in interest payments but also free up more of your income to reinvest or use as discretionary spending.  

Take Advantage of Sales and Discounts  

Keep your eye out for sales and take advantage of discounts, coupons, and loyalty programs. Many retailers offer exclusive deals to customers who sign up for their emails or text messages, so it pays to be proactive. You can also save a lot of money by planning ahead and buying in bulk when items are on sale.  

Comparison Shop at the Grocery Store  

If you want to save money and find the best deals, take some time to compare prices by weight at different stores. This is especially important for meat, where the price can vary widely, and has risen the most in recent years. You may also want to consider shopping at a discount grocery store or online.  

There are several ways to fight inflation and keep yourself out of debt. The most important thing is to be proactive and take steps now to protect yourself from higher costs down the road. By following these tips from local debt help attorneys, you can rest assured that you are taking the necessary steps to stay ahead of inflation and keep your finances in good standing. 

Lewis and Jurnovoy is a local law office serving the Florida Panhandle. We specialize in bankruptcy law, including Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy. We will work to achieve the best financial remedy for your outstanding debts. 

Lewis & Jurnovoy PCB 
2714 West 15th St 
Panama City, FL 32401 
(850) 913-9110 
https://www.LewisandJurnovoy.com 

Can I Discharge My Student Loan Debt by Filing for Bankruptcy?

Student loan debt is the second-largest debt category in the United States, just behind mortgages. As of 2022, Americans owe $1.75 trillion in federal student loans. This massive amount of debt might be tough to handle for any individual, especially if you are unable to find a job that covers your monthly expenses. 

If you are having trouble balancing your life while trying to pay your student loan debts, you may be wondering if Chapter 7 bankruptcy is an option for you. Unfortunately, it can get a bit complicated. 

While bankruptcy can eliminate some forms of debt, student loans are a rare case. You can only discharge your student loans under specific circumstances. 

If you can show that repaying your student loans would put you in an untenable financial position, your debt might be forgiven. This is not easy, but it is possible. 

Proving Undue Hardship to Discharge Student Loans 

The Brunner Test is used by various bankruptcy courts to see whether you are eligible: 

• So far, you have done everything possible to repay your debts in a timely and responsible manner. 
• If you are ordered to pay your debt, you will be unable to maintain a reasonable standard of living for yourself and/or your dependents. 
• For the duration of your loan repayment term, your financial situation is anticipated to remain constant. 

In most situations, the court will not consider undue hardship if you pay for items that it believes are unnecessary, such as cable television. If undue hardship is determined, the court may cancel your student loan debt entirely. This is a very difficult process, however, and most people are not successful in having their loans discharged. 

The Benefits of Filing for Bankruptcy 

Even if you are unable to discharge your student loans, filing for bankruptcy can still offer some relief. 

One of the benefits of bankruptcy is the automatic stay. This legally binding order stops creditors from trying to collect on debts. This means that creditors cannot call you, send you collection letters, or garnish your wages. 

The automatic stay gives you some much needed breathing room to sort out your finances. It can also give you time to negotiate with your creditors to come up with a repayment plan that works better for you. 

Filing for bankruptcy can be a difficult process, but it might be worth considering if you are struggling to make your monthly student loan payments. If you are feeling overwhelmed, it is important to seek help. You can talk to the bankruptcy attorneys at Lewis & Jurnovoy to see if Chapter 7 bankruptcy is an option for you. 

Lewis and Jurnovoy is a local law office serving the Florida Panhandle. We specialize in bankruptcy law, including Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy. We will work to achieve the best financial remedy for your outstanding debts. 

Lewis & Jurnovoy PCB 
2714 West 15th St 
Panama City, FL 32401 
(850) 913-9110 
https://www.LewisandJurnovoy.com

Popular Alternatives to Filing for Bankruptcy: What You Need to Know

Filing for bankruptcy is a big decision that should not be taken lightly. It can be a great way to get out of debt, but it also has some major drawbacks. If you are thinking about filing for bankruptcy, you may consider some alternatives first. In this blog post, an experienced bankruptcy attorney will discuss some popular alternatives to bankruptcy and what you need to know about them. 

Debt consolidation is one of the most popular alternatives to bankruptcy. This is where you take all your debts and merge them into one or fewer new loans. You will need to have a good credit score to qualify for a debt consolidation loan, and you will still be responsible for making monthly payments, but they will usually have lower interest rates. 

Another popular bankruptcy alternative is debt settlement. This is where you negotiate with your creditors to settle your debt for less than what you owe. This can be a great way to get out of debt, but it does have some drawbacks, including damage to your credit score. 

If you are thinking about filing for bankruptcy, you should also consider credit counseling and debt management. This is where you meet with a credit counselor or agency to create a plan to get out of debt. This can be a great way to get help from professionals and lower your interest rates, but you will now add the price of their service/maintenance fees to your monthly payments. 

The last alternative to bankruptcy is doing nothing. This may seem like a bad idea, but it is sometimes the best option if you are “judgment proof.” This means that you do not have any assets that creditors can take to satisfy a debt. If you have a job and own property, you are not judgment proof. However, if you are retired and live on a fixed income, you may be judgment proof. 

No matter what decision you make, it is important to weigh the pros and cons carefully. If you are considering trying one of these alternatives to bankruptcy, you should speak with local bankruptcy lawyers, Lewis & Jurnovoy, in Panama City Beach. They will help you understand your rights and options under the law, and help you find the best solution for your unique situation. 

Lewis and Jurnovoy is a local law office serving the Florida Panhandle. We specialize in bankruptcy law, including Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy. We will work to achieve the best financial remedy for your outstanding debts. 

Lewis & Jurnovoy PCB 
2714 West 15th St 
Panama City, FL 32401 
(850) 913-9110 

https://www.LewisandJurnovoy.com

How to Deal with Harassment and Deception by a Collection Agency

If you are dealing with harassment or deception by a collection agency, you are not alone. It is important to note that lawmakers did not anticipate collection agencies using unethical and illegal tactics to get people to pay debts. However, there are steps that you can take to protect yourself from these tactics and fight back against the bill collectors. But how do you know when it is time to contact an attorney? In this blog post, an experienced bankruptcy attorney will discuss what harassment and deception are and how to recognize them.  

What is Harassment by a Debt Collector? 

• Abusive language. A debt collector may not use profane or abusive language when speaking with you about your debt. This rule applies to all communications, including phone calls and written correspondence—not just face-to-face conversations. 

• Threats. Threats of violence, being arrested, or taking away your property are off-limits. 
• Repeated calls. Debt collectors cannot call multiple times a day to harass you. If you receive repeated messages on your answering machine from the same debt collector, this is harassment. 

What is Considered Deception by a Debt Collector? 

Collection agencies must be completely transparent. This means that they cannot engage in any deceptive practices, such as pretending to be a law enforcement officer or using a fake company name. Also, they are not allowed to give false credit information about you to anyone. Finally, debt collectors may not threaten any sort of seizure of your property or wages unless they have been authorized by law to do so. 

If you now realize you are being deceived or harassed by a collection agency, don’t hesitate to contact a professional for help. The attorneys at Lewis & Jurnovoy in Panama City Beach, FL are experienced in dealing with debt collectors and can help you take the necessary steps to protect yourself from abuse.  

Lewis and Jurnovoy is a local law office serving the Florida Panhandle. We specialize in bankruptcy law, including Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy. We will work to achieve the best financial remedy for your outstanding debts. 

Lewis & Jurnovoy PCB  
2714 West 15th St 
Panama City, FL 32401 
(850) 913-9110 
https://www.LewisandJurnovoy.com  

You May Be Eligible to Re-file Your Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Case if it Was Dismissed

If you have recently had your Chapter 13 bankruptcy case dismissed, you may be wondering if you are able to re-file. The good news is yes, you can re-file another Chapter 13 bankruptcy case if certain personal or financial affairs have changed within the past year. In this blog post, two experienced bankruptcy lawyers will share some of the common examples and what your next steps should be. Keep in mind that each case is unique, and thus, you should talk to an experienced bankruptcy lawyer for personalized advice on your situation. 

Changes in a Debtor’s Personal Affairs: 

• The debtor previously filed the case without the help of a bankruptcy lawyer, so it was improperly filed. 
• Out-of-pocket expenditures, such as funeral charges or an unforeseen vehicle repair bill, have increased significantly and unexpectedly. 

• The debtor was previously unable to obtain a discharge, but now they are. 
• The death of a family member occurred, particularly a spouse or someone who had previously been financially supporting the family.  

Changes in a Debtor’s Financial Affairs: 

• The debtor’s expenses are now far lower than they were when they filed their initial case. 
• The debtor has a considerably higher income than they had when they filed their first case. 

• The debtor may have suffered a short-term income loss, such as unpaid medical leave, but they have now recovered their regular income. 
• The debtor was laid off but was later rehired. 

So, if your Chapter 13 bankruptcy case was dismissed within the past year, due to something like missed payments or not following court orders, you may be able to re-file. However, it’s important that you contact Lewis & Jurnovoy in Panama City Beach, FL as soon as possible in order to ensure that everything is filed appropriately. They will answer any questions you may have and help guide you through the entire filing process. 

Lewis and Jurnovoy is a local law office serving the Florida Panhandle. We specialize in bankruptcy law, including Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy. We will work to achieve the best financial remedy for your outstanding debts. 

Lewis & Jurnovoy 
2714 West 15th St 
Panama City, FL 32401 
(850) 913-9110 
https://www.LewisandJurnovoy.com