What happens if I file for Bankruptcy but I co-signed on a loan for someone else? Many of my clients have had a conversation similar to this one. ---------------------------------- Daughter: Mom, I really need a new car, but I can't get approved for a loan without a co-signer. Mom: Well, I'...
Hi Folks, So with all of the economic uncertainty, for people who have been in longstanding Chapter 13 cases, it might be a good time to re-examine your circumstances. There are a number of reasons why someone might file for a Ch. 13, such as: I was ineligible for a Ch. 7 at the time. My hous...
Despite the frustrating economic times, a lot of people are confused about the fact that Bankruptcy filings seemed to have declined. There are a myriad of factors on why this is happening, but the phenomenon is important for a whole host of industries which depend on the strength of the economy....
Lately, we have had a lot of clients who have receiving wage garnishments for very old debts. Many of them thought that their debts had passed the statute of limitations and were shocked to see their pay check be hit by a garnishment. Statute of Limitations can be a bit confusing. First there ...
So we've been having some people reach out to us about the confusion related to the temporary Covid-19 moratorium on collections. While it is true that many creditors are offering a welcomed short-term forbearance on regular payments, each program is a little different. Some offer 0% interest, w...
Hi Folks, So there has been a lot of activity over the past few days in Washington DC attempting to bring relief for the American people. On the issue of student loans, according to Forbes, the President signed an executive order suspending student loan payments through ...
In my last blog post I talked about debt settlement, and laid out the benefits and some of the pitfalls associated with exploring that option. In this post, let's talk about the practical side of things. In my opinion, unless you really have no ability to speak assertively over the phone, you r...
As a Bankruptcy attorney, sometimes we see everything through our limited lenses, and of course, when it comes to debt, since our tool is a hammer, every problem resembles a nail. But the truth is that you always have non-bankruptcy options to settle debt, but most people are often intimidated a...
Hi Folks, Brian here. Here in Washington, our "stay at home" order has been increased to May 31. For most of us that means doing things around the house, lots of TV watching, and (unfortunately) worrying about bills. Every industry has been hit by the response to Covid-19, and debt collectors...
Hi Folks, Gov. Inslee announced a suspension of garnishments today. This is great news to the beleaguered people of Washington State. In Washington State when a judgment creditor pursues a garnishment against wages, they can take up to 25% of your take home pay, and 100% of your bank account. Th...
Hi Folks, We are clearly in surreal times. Everyone is doing their part to get through this pandemic, but in addition to your health, we have to be prepared to deal with some harsh realities. Bills will still be due. They may get deferred, and it is up to you to verify that a particular credito...
Hi everyone, As we navigate this new reality, our clients are asking us questions about IF they should consider filing a Bankruptcy. We'd like to share some of this information if anyone out there has the same burning question(s). A recent question: I just bought a new car a few months ago and ...
Hi everyone, With all of the concerns about Covid-19, it is important to keep in mind that you have a lot of resources at your disposal that might not be obvious on the surface. A lot of people's lives have been affected by the virus. Restaurants are closing and airlines/travel industry is takin...
