Category: Bankruptcy Basics
Bankruptcy v. Deed In Lieu of Foreclosure
Clients have frequently asked us what is the difference between a deed in lieu of foreclosure and a bankruptcy? First, a deed in lieu of foreclosure (DLF) is when the homeowner signs over and transfers the deed to the home to the mortgage company without the legal process of a foreclosure. Most people believe this … Read more
How Long Does a Judgment or Lien Last?
If a creditor has sued you and won in court, that court judgment can follow you for a long time — especially if the creditor takes steps to attach it to your property. Understanding how long judgments and liens last in North Carolina, and what options you have to deal with them, is important whether … Read more
The Basics of Understanding Financial Statements for Your Business
There are two financial statements that you must provide for your business when you file personal bankruptcy: the income statement or profit and loss and the balance sheet. We will look at the financial statements for a small plumbing business, ABC Plumbing. We encourage you to click on the blue links to open examples of a profit & loss statement and balance sheet. This is a simplified approach to the financial statements, so you should seek advice from your accountant should you have questions when preparing the financial statements for your business. We will also only be looking at Operating Income and will not consider interest income, interest expense or other non-operating items that most businesses incur.
What Financial Statements are Required for a Business if I’m Filing Bankruptcy?
If you are self-employed or own your own business, you should prepare monthly financial statements to understand how your business is performing. Realistically, financial statements are often the last thing a small business owner worries about. He or she is usually more concerned about how to make the next sale or generate the next contract. … Read more
Can Wages Be Garnished in North Carolina?
North Carolina is one of only four states in the country that provides strong protection against wage garnishment for consumer debts. If you have a credit card debt, a medical bill, or a personal loan, a creditor who wins a lawsuit against you in NC generally cannot touch your paycheck. This is one of the … Read more
Can I Pay My Family or Friends Back Before I File Bankruptcy?
The Short Answer Yes, you can technically pay back family or friends before you file bankruptcy. But it is usually a bad idea. The bankruptcy court treats loans from family and friends differently than loans from a bank or credit card company. If you pay one of them back right before filing, the trustee may … Read more
What if Creditors Keep Calling After I’ve Filed Bankruptcy?
The phone rings again. You filed for bankruptcy, and you thought the calls would finally stop. But here is another collector asking when you can pay. If this is happening to you, take a breath. You have rights, and the law is on your side. This article explains why creditors are supposed to stop calling … Read more
Can I Keep My Car Lease if I File Bankruptcy?
When filing bankruptcy you have the option to continue to pay for your car lease payment or you can opt out of your car lease payment. In a bankruptcy you can legally be released from many of your contractual obligations, this includes things like cell phone contracts, apartment leases, and even a car lease. In a … Read more
Do I Need an Attorney to File Bankruptcy?
Are you thinking about filing bankruptcy on your own? You may be asking if you really need a lawyer to do it. Maybe money is tight, and hiring an attorney feels like one more bill you cannot afford right now. That worry makes sense. Below, we will explain the rules in plain English. You will … Read more
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