Family Law Richard E. Young & Associates

Your Advisor on - Family Law | Trust Law | Bankruptcy Law | A Master Lawyer

Tag: bankruptcy (page 1 of 2)

Bankruptcy vs. Debt Consolidation: Which Option is Right for You?

Are you drowning in debt and unsure of which path to take? When it comes to resolving financial difficulties, two popular options are bankruptcy and debt consolidation. Both options have their pros and cons, and it’s essential to understand them before making a decision.

What is Bankruptcy?

Bankruptcy is a legal process that allows individuals or businesses to eliminate or repay their debts under the protection of the court. It provides an opportunity for a fresh start by wiping out most, if not all, of your debts. However, it also comes with significant consequences, such as a negative impact on your credit score and the potential loss of assets.

Related: “Types of Bankruptcy in California”

What is Debt Consolidation?

On the other hand, debt consolidation involves combining multiple debts into one loan, often with a lower interest rate. This allows you to make a single monthly payment instead of managing multiple payments to different creditors. Debt consolidation can simplify your financial situation and potentially save you money in interest payments. However, it’s important to note that it doesn’t eliminate your debt but rather restructures it.

How Bankruptcy and Debt Consolidation Affects Your Credit Score

Bankruptcy and debt consolidation can have a significant impact on your credit score. When you file for bankruptcy, it stays on your credit report for up to 10 years, which can make it difficult to obtain new credit or loans during that time. It is important to note that bankruptcy can lower your credit score by a significant amount, as it is seen as a negative event by lenders.

On the other hand, debt consolidation can have a positive effect on your credit score if managed properly. By consolidating your debts into one loan, you can simplify your payments and potentially lower your interest rates. This can help you make consistent payments, which is a factor that positively affects your credit score. However, it is important to make all your payments on time and avoid taking on new debt while going through debt consolidation to see the full benefits on your credit score.

Which is the Better Option?

If you have the option, debt consolidation is always a preferable choice over bankruptcy. Debt consolidation becomes feasible when you meet the criteria to qualify for a new loan or credit card account that you can utilize to repay your higher-interest debts. However, if debt consolidation is not a viable solution for you, then bankruptcy may be the best option available.

Ultimately, the decision between bankruptcy and debt consolidation should be based on a thorough evaluation of the individual’s or business’s financial situation, goals, and long-term plans. Consulting with a financial advisor or bankruptcy attorney can provide valuable insights and guidance in making this decision.

Related: “Top Reasons to Hire a Bankruptcy Lawyer”

Get In Touch With Us

If you’re unsure which option is right for you, consult with Family Law Richard E. Young & Associates! We specialize in bankruptcy law and will provide personalized guidance based on your unique financial situation. Contact us at (949) 951-9529 or visit our website at richardeyoungattorney.net to schedule a consultation. Let us help you find the best solution to regain control of your finances and start a fresh chapter in your life.

Top Reasons to Hire a Bankruptcy Lawyer

Declaring bankruptcy is one of the hardest and most demoralizing things an individual can go through. You have already lost your business and assets, and are deeply in debt to your vendors and creditors. We understand how tough this time can be. It is advisable to hire a lawyer well versed in business law who understands how to file for bankruptcy on your behalf. The following are the top reasons to hire a bankruptcy lawyer to make the process easier for you.

1. Lawyers are well aware of the legal process involving bankruptcy.

It is a given that bankruptcy lawyers are well versed and informed about the entire legal process involving bankruptcy. From meeting deadlines to guiding you through the internal structure of the legal process itself. If you try to apply for bankruptcy yourself, chances are that you might miss some important paperwork or a certain deadline that could result in failure to register. A bankruptcy lawyer can help you avoid such mistakes.

2. A bankruptcy lawyer will handle your creditors.

If you are considering declaring bankruptcy, your creditors must be calling you to collect the debt. Constant calls from your creditors can be quite stressful. When you hire a bankruptcy lawyer, they will handle the communication with your creditors for you. They will explain to them the situation and offer legal solutions for you. Once your lawyer starts working with you, the harassment from the creditors will stop substantially. You can have the peace of mind to focus on solutions.

3. You have better chances of success with a bankruptcy lawyer.

A bankruptcy lawyer understands the legal process and negotiation required to bring a case in your favor. They understand the terminology better than anyone. With their experience, your odds of achieving success in the case are significantly higher.

Related: “When Should I Seriously Consider Filing for Bankruptcy”

Conclusion

In such a trying time, it’s crucial to know someone is always looking out for your best interests. Someone who will be able to attend all the different meetings with creditors and other parties to ensure any negotiations are fair and legal. All the while, they’re keeping you informed on any updates. Hire Family Law Richard E. Young & Associates to handle your bankruptcy case for you. Our professionals will gladly walk you through the process. Get in touch with us by calling (949) 951-9529 to schedule a meeting with us.

From Bankruptcy to a Successful Business

Recovering from old financial debts and running a billion-dollar business successfully might seem like a joke to most people. But filing for bankruptcy is one of the most reliable ways to get out of old debts and maintain a business. Even though you might endure a few challenges at the beginning with establishing good credit, managing your cash flow, and rebuilding your financial profile, once you financially recover from bankruptcy, you can give your business a fresh start. To help you understand better, this article will explain everything in detail.

Related: “Types of Bankruptcy in California”

1. Build a Budget and Start Saving Money

There’s a very famous quote that says, “Prevention is the best medicine, and creating healthy financial habits and a budget can help you save money for your present and future.” So, to avoid history repeating itself, start off by managing your expenses. This will help you stay within the financial budget and reduce your chances of facing debts again. Once you think you have successfully recovered from your debts, you can put all your time, money, and energy into getting your business back on track.

A picture containing table, indoor, person

Description automatically generated

2. Develop Good Credit Habits

Another effective way to accelerate your financial recovery is by developing a good credit habit. Because reestablishing a solid credit score will help you accomplish your financial goals. For instance, you can start off by focusing on making timely payments. It will benefit you when opening a secured credit card. Not only that, but it will also help you proficiently handle your company’s utility bills, electricity and phone bills, and many other expenses. Once you get over these challenges, you can deal with any problem. This way, you’ll be able to take your business one step further ahead.

3. Plan for Your Financial Future

Do you want to grow your business? Or do you wish you had another branch? After filing for bankruptcy, you can stick to these goals and budget and focus more on your financial future. This way, you will stay motivated and continue to rely more on the funding you’re saving that you can later on utilize in your company’s growth and development. We believe you will agree that the most reliable way to secure your financial future is to make wise cash flow and financial decisions.

Related: “Warning Signs of a Bankruptcy”

4. Seek Professional Help

A picture containing indoor, person

Description automatically generated

If you find bankruptcy is getting on your nerves, try seeking professional help. There are many highly qualified lawyers available that can help you resolve your issues and provide you with practical solutions.

The Bottom Line

After filing for bankruptcy, you will not immediately establish a billion-dollar business. But this doesn’t mean that you won’t. It’s completely possible, but it will require a lot of hard work, patience, and dedication to fully recover and get back on track. Just consider the guide above to creating a better and more secure future for you and your business. If you’re looking for a recommendation, then Family Law Richard E. Young & Associates is the best option. We have a team with decades of experience working with clients. To get legal assistance, contact our law firm today. You can also visit our website for more information.

Warning Signs of a Bankruptcy

Economic times are tough and many people may find themselves on the shorter end of the stick when it comes to finances. This can be due to loan debts, overwhelming bills, low wages, business and personal expenses, and much more. Unfortunately, some individuals may not realize that they’re heading towards bankruptcy before it’s too late. Being aware of the warning signs and getting expert advice early on can help in avoiding the worst case scenario.

What Are the Warning Signs?

People that file for bankruptcy often make the mistake of waiting too long before seeking advice from a bankruptcy attorney. Here are some warning signs you should be aware of:

1. You don’t have savings.

Living paycheck to paycheck can be tough because you’re spending your money as quickly as you receive it. If you don’t have any savings set aside for emergencies, an unexpected event or disaster can set you back and easily cause you to fall behind on paying important bills.

2. Your debt-to-income ratio is high.

A debt-to-income ratio is the percentage of monthly income that goes towards paying your debts. For example, if you make $2000 per month and $1000 is going towards paying off bills, then that means your ratio is 50%. A significantly high ratio will affect your ability to apply for loans.

3. You’re struggling with debt collectors.

Receiving demands and notices from debt collectors is another red flag. This occurs when a debt goes unpaid for longer than 180 days and the creditor sells the debt to a debt collection agency.

4. You have high interest rates due to being late on credit card payments.

Being unable to pay more than the minimum payment will incur additional interest on the remaining balance. If you find yourself unable to catch up and pay off your balances for an extended period of time, it’s likely you will be stuck in that cycle of debt.

5. You’re struggling to pay off substantial medical bills and expenses.

Having inadequate health insurance or none at all can lead to expensive medical bills in the case of unexpected injuries, medical conditions, or hospitalization. A significant rise in debt due to medical bills can force you to file for bankruptcy. 

6. Your personal relationships are being affected by your debt.

Having large amounts of debt is a huge financial burden on your life. This leads to feelings of stress and can cause arguments with loved ones – further straining your personal relationships. People often tend to hide their debt and keep their loved ones in the dark, which can also be a strong sign of a debt problem.

Get the Help You Deserve

If multiple warning signs apply to you, you may be on the verge of bankruptcy. We highly recommend that you seek out legal advice from a qualified bankruptcy attorney before it’s too late. Rely on Family Law Richard E. Young & Associates and schedule an in-depth consultation today! For more information, please visit our website or call (949) 951-9529.

Types of Bankruptcy in California

Many families, business, and individuals file for bankruptcy every year for a wide array of reasons. In California there are four common types of bankruptcy cases that ultimately work to help people and corporations repay their debts in a more feasible way. Below we review these four types of cases, who they apply to, and where you can go for legal support in California for bankruptcy.

Chapter 7

In order to qualify for chapter seven bankruptcy in California your income must be below a predetermined amount and you must allow the court to sell your assets to pay off your debts. This means any assets you possess minus certain exemptions will be sold, granting debtors what some call a ‘fresh start.’ Keep in mind you can only file for chapter seven bankruptcy once every six years.

Chapter 11

Chapter eleven bankruptcy is typically for businesses and corporations in debt, but is sometimes available to individuals as well. This option allows debtors to reorganize or restructure their debt so they can keep their assets while slowly paying it down over time. Not only is chapter eleven bankruptcy the most flexible, but it also does not have limits on the amount of debt one can be in.

Chapter 12

According to the U.S. court system, chapter twelve bankruptcy is specifically designed for ‘family farmers or family fishermen.’ It’s a simplified version of chapter eleven bankruptcy that allows these farmers and fishermen to carry out repayment plans to their creditors over three to five years, without surrendering any assets.

Chapter 13

Chapter thirteen bankruptcy is similar to both chapter eleven and twelve, but is designed specifically for individuals making a typical income. Debtors who qualify for chapter thirteen bankruptcy will have to repay their debts over three to five years while being allowed to keep their property.

Final Thoughts

Year after year, millions of people file for chapter seven bankruptcy, frequently those going through a divorce. Often, a discharge of consumer and tax debt through bankruptcy can be the key to unlocking your financial hardship. Contact our firm in Orange County, CA today for legal support with family law, trusts, bankruptcy and more.

Older posts