Bankruptcy Can Provide A New Beginning Free From Overwhelming Debt

Too many people think of bankruptcy as the worst thing that can happen to them financially. In reality, bankruptcy is a financial lifeline designed by our country’s founders to help rescue those of us who need a helping hand. The United States Supreme Court recently wrote: “The principal purpose of the Bankruptcy Code is to grant a ‘fresh start’ to the ‘honest but unfortunate debtor.’”

In other words, bankruptcy exists in order to give you a second chance. Life happens – and sometimes starting over is the best way to overcome adversity. If you’re considering bankruptcy, you can find the legal help you need at Erin Kirkwood Law, PLLC.

A Compassionate And Honest Consumer Bankruptcy Lawyer

As a prosecutor, Erin Kirkwood spent nearly two decades fighting for victims of crime. Now she’s fighting for your financial future. If you’re struggling to pay your bills and your minimum debts each month, the bill collectors are calling, your house is in foreclosure or you have a mountain of medical bills you’re unable to pay, bankruptcy may be the new beginning you need.

Should You File For Consumer (Personal) Bankruptcy?

Unfortunately, there is no clear-cut answer to this question. Everyone’s financial situation is different, and the right move for someone else may not be the best decision for you. In general, if you have $10,000, $20,000 or even more in medical debt or credit card debt or are defaulting on a home, car or boat loan, bankruptcy may be a viable lifeline. The best thing you can do for yourself, your family and your finances is to sit down with a knowledgeable consumer bankruptcy attorney as soon as possible to discuss your options and find a way out of debt.

Do You Need A Bankruptcy Attorney In Order To File?

The short answer? No. The longer answer, however, is that you are probably going to want one. Anyone can file for bankruptcy pro se, or without an attorney. However, the court does not treat pro se litigants different than those represented by attorneys. Per the United States courts: “Pro se litigants are expected to follow the rules and procedures in federal courts and should be familiar with the United States Bankruptcy Code, the Federal Rules of Bankruptcy Procedure, and the local rules of the court in which the case is filed.”

Misunderstanding bankruptcy law and making errors on bankruptcy forms can adversely affect your rights. A knowledgeable bankruptcy attorney can guide you through the process, handle the vital aspects of your bankruptcy case and ensure that your rights are observed.

How Much Does It Cost To File For Bankruptcy?

Understandably, one of the biggest concerns people have when they’re considering filing for bankruptcy is the cost. Many people, however, are surprised to find that the cost of bankruptcy is low compared to their high levels of debt.

In Florida, bankruptcy fees range from $310 to $355. Other costs, which include mandatory credit reports and consumer counseling programs usually cost another $150. Erin’s competitive attorney fees vary based on the unique attributes of your case, but they generally start at $1,500. All said and done, it can cost as little as $2,000 to eliminate mountains of debt.

How Long Does The Bankruptcy Process Take?

A Chapter 7 bankruptcy discharges your debt entirely at the end of the proceedings. Chapter 7 bankruptcies can usually be filed and completed in four to six months.

Based in Stuart, Erin Kirkwood Law, PLLC, serves clients in Martin, Okeechobee, and St. Lucie counties and throughout the Treasure Coast region of Florida. To take advantage of a free 30-minute consultation about your debt-relief options, call 772-732-8863 or fill out an online contact form.

Pursuant to Title 11 of the United States Code, Erin Kirkwood Law, PLLC, is a debt relief agency. Attorney Erin Kirkwood helps people file for bankruptcy relief under the Bankruptcy Code.