There are many misconceptions and myths about filing bankruptcy. The biggest bankruptcy myth is that you will lose everything you own if you file for bankruptcy relief. Another popular bankruptcy myth is that you will never recover your good credit rating and never be able to obtain a loan after filing a bankruptcy. While there may be some truth intermingled with the bankruptcy misconceptions that clutter the internet, the fact is that filing bankruptcy does have both benefits and a few temporary disadvantages. Wondering what bankruptcy means for your future is a valid concern that many clients have when first consulting a bankruptcy attorney. It is with the help of an experienced bankruptcy attorney that many people find the answer to their question, “What does bankruptcy mean for my future?”

Most clients ask similar questions during a bankruptcy consultation. One familiar question that I am asked is “What is a bankruptcy discharge?” The immediate follow-up question is “How can it help with my debts?” Before I answer either of these questions, I tell my clients that a bankruptcy discharge is the ultimate goal for any debtor in a bankruptcy case and it is my job as an attorney to assist you through the bankruptcy process to achieve that goal. Below is a brief discussion that answers these two questions more thoroughly.

When debts turn into a vicious cycle that threatens to never end, filing for bankruptcy can be a wise and prudent choice to move toward financial freedom. There are multiple types of bankruptcy that suit different situations.  The best choice for you will mainly depend on your debts, assets and current income.

When you meet or discuss with a debt consolidation company they may not explain the “fine print” associated with their programs. At first glance debt consolidation programs seem appealing but before you sign the dotted line, make sure you know the fine details of the program you are signing up for. Here is a summary of details some debt consolidation companies try to gloss over to make their programs more appealing:

As a bankruptcy attorney, I know that individuals and couples go through several stages when they are answering the question “Should I file bankruptcy?” While most consumers follow a similar process when tackling this question, not every person will follow the same exact path to decide whether or not bankruptcy is right for them. This is because each person’s or couple’s financial situation is unique; however, through years of experience and by helping thousands of clients through the bankruptcy process, my partner and I have learned that most debtors go through at least three stages before deciding if they should file bankruptcy. While not all three steps are necessary, and many may skip to the last and most important step, there is some value in each of the following steps.

If you’re asking yourself this question, you may feel like you’re literally drowning in debt. You struggle to keep your head above water, but in fact, you’re barely staying afloat. If you’re feeling this bogged down with stress over debt, it’s time to take action. Consider the many benefits of filing a Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Many people dread the very thought of filing for bankruptcy, when in fact it is a positive way out to get a fresh start. Do not feel like a failure; you’re doing the right thing.

Constantly feeling like you are trying to catch up, while preventing yourself from falling further behind, is exhausting. The longer this drags on, the more tired and discouraged you become. Financial stress is known for causing personal health problems as well as relationship issues.

If your financial situation is spinning out of control and you are no longer able to make your full monthly payments on time, something needs to happen. Or, perhaps you are already in a debt management program and aren’t able to keep up with your already lowered monthly payments. There are two things that can be done.

A chapter 13 trustee will be assigned to your case when you file for bankruptcy. Think of the chapter 13 trustee’s role in your bankruptcy case similar to the role an account manager plays. This individual is appointed by the court and will manage your case from the beginning, through your entire repayment plan, at which time you will receive a discharge.

Two of the most common bankruptcy myths lead people to believe that you will lose everything you own and you will never be able to own anything in the future. Both of these are false. Most people who file bankruptcy don’t lose anything and in the future you can buy, own and possess whatever you can afford to make payments on. One of those necessary and often treasured possessions debtors fear losing is their vehicle – their mode of transportation.

A discharge is a legal term used during bankruptcy and refers to the elimination of your liability from your debts. If you file Chapter 7 your discharge will be granted immediately upon case closing or if you file Chapter 13, your discharge occurs after you complete your repayment period.