Post-Filing Financial Education

In 2005, congress passed the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act (BAPCPA), which made major changes to existing bankruptcy law. One of these changes included the addition of a requirement that debtors receive post-bankruptcy financial education from an approved credit counselor or counseling organization. After meeting this education requirement the attendee is issued a

When You Need to File for Bankruptcy

At Behm Law Group, LTD, we see people from all different walks of life, and generally they have one thing in common—they’re desperate. Declaring bankruptcy is the last thing most people want to do; however, many feel that they have no choice. Perhaps you’re feeling financially stressed, maybe even desperate. Do you need to file

Can I File Bankruptcy Without a Lawyer?

Simply answered, yes you can. If an individual meets the eligibility requirements of filing bankruptcy in the state they reside in, one can file bankruptcy themselves. That being said, bankruptcy laws are complex and change frequently, and the process can be challenging to navigate without guidance from an experienced bankruptcy lawyer. If you attempt to

Expedite the Bankruptcy Process: Gather the Required Documents in Advance

The process of filing for bankruptcy can and should be a very smooth and relatively quick one. What generally slows and complicates the process is if the individual does not have the required paperwork in order. Prior to filing bankruptcy, there are a number of supporting documents that must be submitted. Until these documents are

Bankruptcy Myths Debunked – Part 4

This is the fourth part in a series of bankruptcy myths debunked. We have already debunked the myths that everyone will know you declared bankruptcy, your credit will be ruined forever, and that you’ll lose everything you own. The final myth we will debunk is that declaring bankruptcy is an honest and accurate reflection of

Bankruptcy Myths Debunked – Part 3

This is the third part in a series of bankruptcy myths debunked. The first myth we debunked was that everyone will know when you declare bankruptcy. The second myth is that declaring bankruptcy will ruin your credit forever. The third myth we address is that when you declare bankruptcy you will lose everything you own.

Bankruptcy Myths Debunked – Part 2

This is the second part in a series of bankruptcy myths debunked. The first myth we debunked was that everyone will know when you declare bankruptcy. The second myth to be debunked is that declaring bankruptcy will ruin your credit forever. While a bankruptcy filing can be reflected on your credit history for anywhere from

Bankruptcy Myths Debunked – Part 1

This is the first part in a series that debunks myths about bankruptcy. The first myth to be debunked is that everyone will know when you declare bankruptcy. Maybe you have fears of people watching you and whispering to one another when you go to work, your place of worship, or social events. Like some

Additional Causes of Bankruptcy

This post is the third in a series about the most common causes of personal bankruptcy. In the first post medical expenses were identified as the cause for the most bankruptcies in the United States. The second post recognized job loss and unemployment as the second most common cause of bankruptcies. In this final segment

Top Causes of Personal Bankruptcy

This post is the second in a series about the most common causes of personal bankruptcy. The first post discussed medical expenses which is the number one reason for filing bankruptcy in the United States. And just like the sudden onset of illness, the second most common cause of bankruptcy is something that is out