Client Corner | Bankruptcy

Bankruptcy Law

It has been several weeks since I filed, one creditor will not stop calling or writing, what do I do?
What is a discharge and when do I receive it?
Is there anything my creditors can do to stop my bankruptcy?
How long will my bankruptcy be reported on my credit report?
I forgot to list a creditor, what can I do now?
Will I ever be able to get credit again?
I have a question that is not answered here, will you answer it for me?

It has been several weeks since I filed, one creditor will not stop calling or writing, what do I do?
No problem. Document the information and send me an e-mail. If you receive anything in the mail, mail it to me. You do not need to call the office. I will contact the creditor and warn them. I have never failed at getting a creditor to stop calling or writing.

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What is a discharge and when do I receive it?
The discharge is the legal term for the debts officially being eliminated. It is the step right before the closing of the case. The discharge is a permanent order to the creditors requiring that they refrain from taking any form of collection action on the discharged debts. You will receive notice of the discharge about three months after the case is filed.

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Is there anything my creditors can do to stop my bankruptcy?
Generally no. The exception is where you have committed a prohibited act and the creditor can prove it. Some examples of prohibited acts are as follows: 1) transferring assets to hide them from creditors; 2) lying or providing false information on your petition; 3) destroying or concealing records; 4) violation of a court order; and 5) perjury or other fraudulent acts.

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How long will my bankruptcy be reported on my credit report?

It will appear on your credit report for up to 10 years.

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I forgot to list a creditor, what can I do now?
Contact me immediately so we may discuss the situation. Generally they can be added. There is a small charge for this service.

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Will I ever be able to get credit again?

Yes. You can begin to re-build your credit right away. First, the most important thing is to get your budget under control. No matter what, you must now live within your means. Once you budget is under control, you can begin to acquire some credit by paying your rent or mortgage on time. If you have a car payment, always make the payment on time also. Eventually you can apply and receive a small loan. Make sure you re-pay it on time. You may never be on an equal
footing with someone who has never paid a bill late in their life. But, trust me, you can start over and re-build. It is never too late.

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I have a question that is not answered here, will you answer it for me?

YES, I sure will. Send me an e-mail with your question. If it is a common one, I will also add it to the list.

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If you have a question regarding bankruptcy that is not answered here, you are welcome to send me an e-mail: timothy@trichler.com or call and schedule an office visit. The first visit is no charge or obligation. Evening appointments are always welcome. Our service area is from the Mackinaw Bridge to Kalamazoo on the west side of the state. We have offices in Grand Rapids and Cadillac to serve you.  Please call us today for a free consultation.