Bankruptcy is designed to get you on a course of debt reduction and/or elimination. The purpose of the bankruptcy code, at least from the perspective of the consumer, is to relieve and/or eliminate stress - AND IT WORKS! While the bankruptcy laws have changed getting relief for the clients of the Law Office of Russell W. Crumbley hasn't. Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 are the two chapters of the Bankruptcy Code that are utilized to get relief for our clients.

How Bankruptcy (Short Version)?

Go on-line to hbcce.org and complete the pre-bankruptcy credit counseling program. This is a mandatory pre-requisite for filing bankruptcy. Click here for an application which will help you get the necessary information together prior to starting the program. During the counseling program, you will receive a certification # - write it down and keep it. When you complete the program call the Law Office of Russell W. Crumbley - we will do the rest!

How Bankruptcy (Long Version)?

Prior to filing bankruptcy there are two things a debtor (you) must do:

1. Complete a pre-bankruptcy credit counseling program, and;
2. Determine whether you qualify for relief under chapter 7 or chapter 13 of the bankruptcy code.

This entire process can be completed in four easy steps.

STEP 1:

CLICK HERE to Get Your Information Worksheet/Application. Fill this necessary worksheet out and you will have everything you need to get completely through the bankruptcy process.

STEP 2:

Go online to hbcce.org and complete the Pre-Bankruptcy Credit Counseling program. Before you log off - COMPLETE STEP 3, below. Refer to the information worksheet/application you filled out in step 1, above, to work through this program. It will take you (up to) about one hour to complete. The program is free to complete, however, there is a nominal fee required to get a certificate of completion. NOTE: It is not necessary to pay the fee for your certificate until you are actually ready to proceed with bankruptcy and we can do that for you once we begin the process.

STEP 3:

Write down your certification #!

STEP 4:

Call the Law Office of Russell W. Crumbley (539-4464) and let us do the rest. It's that easy. We will proceed with either a Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 Petition for Protection depending upon the results of the credit counseling program you completed in step 1. To proceed with scheduling an appointment and to file for bankruptcy protection, click here or, dial 539-4464.

FINAL NOTE:

Make sure you keep the downloaded application as it will contain all the information you will need to complete the credit counseling program and to file for bankruptcy protection. Be sure to bring it with you to your appointment!

What is Chapter 7?

Chapter 7 is that chapter of the bankruptcy code that allows you to discharge unsecured debt (i.e., credit cards, etc.). That is … forgiveness. With the protection provided under Chapter 7 you do not have to repay certain debts. This, obviously, is the preferred chapter for most people. Under Chapter 7 you may still keep your automobile, your house, etc. as long as you continue to make the required payments on those items. However, if you have substantial equity in your home or other assets it may be necessary to proceed under Chapter 13.

What is Chapter 13?

Chapter 13, in many ways, is a glorified debt consolidation. It allows you to “consolidate” all your debts into one payment. That one payment is the product of a negotiated settlement agreement with your various creditors that includes:

1. Reduced pay-off amounts, and;
2. Favorable interest rates.

As in Chapter 7, you may keep your home and your automobile as well as other items you own.

To proceed with scheduling an appointment and to file for bankruptcy protection please contact us.