“Deciding to file bankruptcy has caused so much stress in my life.” My client said these words the first time we met for an initial consultation.
“I’m so sorry you are going through a tough time. I am here to help. Nobody wants to file bankruptcy, and that’s why we should discuss your non-bankruptcy options as part of this meeting.” During the next hour, we discussed his financial difficulties in detail. His hours had been cut at work, creditors were calling, and his falling home value just added to the pain. His financial problems were causing difficulty in his relationships with his wife, family, co-workers, and even his friends. He explained that he had been feeling this way for over a year since some medical problems had set the family back. He had known for a while that something needed to be done…he just did not know what.
But then a funny thing happened. I explained my recommended strategy. I explained what he needed to do, and how he needed to do it. I explained how his efforts would be rewarded in a few short months with a discharge. He finally began to smile. “For the first time, I can actually see the light at the end of the tunnel.”
Fear of the unknown can cause unhealthy amounts of stress which only adds to the pain of financial trouble. While going through a bankruptcy is not a pleasant experience, most of my clients do feel relief from the very first meeting. If non-bankruptcy options are available, that’s great. But even if a bankruptcy filing is the best course of action, establishing a plan of action is a healthy way to reduce the stress which comes from not knowing what to do.
If you are in Western North Carolina, I would be pleased to meet with you during a free, initial consultation.
