Frequently, in my bankruptcy practice, I see people who need Chapter 7 relief because they were overwhelmed with debt after a hospital stay. A man argued before the North Carolina Supreme Court today that a hospital should have to show why it is necessary to charge more than 24 times what a local pharmacy would…
If you live in Western North Carolina and file a Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy case, you might be surprised at how few people find out what you are doing. Usually, the people who will know are: -Your bankruptcy attorney -The bankruptcy trustee (another lawyer in town) -Your Creditors (usually out of state collection…
…in your financial life, go check out Attorney Rod Kight’s new website and blog. The site is full of useful information when you need help. Rod is a friend and attorney committed to serving our community as demonstrated by his involvement with OnTrack Financial, superb reputation around town as a fantastic lawyer, and his commitment…
One of the frustrating parts of the bankruptcy code for me, personally, is the inability of most clients to discharge student loan debt in Chapter 7 or Chapter 13. I believe schools should have to prove the value of the degrees they are issuing (in terms of real jobs produced) before having their loans guaranteed…
I believe the fundamental problem in our nation’s housing crisis is pretty simple: home values are not in line with loan balances. Read why our President’s call for more refinancing does not address the core issue here: The Permanent Foreclosure Crisis. Permanent principal reductions on mortgages save money for people who need it the most…
Recently, I spoke with a man who felt like he was constantly on the edge. Each month he would wonder if he was paying the right company, responding correctly to telephone calls, and doing the responsible thing. He said, “I work hard each month, and it just keeps getting tighter and tighter. I’ve always paid…
Nobody wants to file a bankruptcy case. For many people who have been struggling, a bankruptcy case represents horror and shame. They continue to struggle month after month to make ends meet, paying high credit card interest or small payments to collection companies. Eliminating debt through a bankruptcy filing would immediately change where their money…
I often speak with new clients in my bankruptcy law practice here in Asheville NC about what property they can keep should they decide to file a Chapter 7 case. In over 90% of the cases filed, the answer is: everything. All of your property should be listed on your petition, but most of the…
When the following conditions exist, filing Chapter 7 may be your best bankruptcy option: You cannot pay your debts. Your creditors are pestering you or threatening to sue you. All of your assets are exempt. If you want to keep property securing a debt (house, car, etc.) you are current with the payments. Chapter 13…
Since I take payment plans, you can spread the fee over time and can afford it. This is particularly true if you are not having to pay other creditors. At your initial consultation, I can go over your bills and let you know which ones you can safely stop paying. Many times, particularly during January…