Oregon Bankruptcy as a Debt Relief Option
For those who are facing a potential bankruptcy, it is most likely the first and only time they will ever be in this position. The most common causes for a bankruptcy are loss of a job, loss of a wage earner or high medical costs from an accident or major illness. A bankruptcy caused by free-spending recklessness is the exception rather than the rule and is one of several bankruptcy myths that surround the issue.
As a bankruptcy attorney, I understand that most people simply want to stop wage garnishment, save their home, protect their car from repossession and put a halt to creditor harassment. Those are all activities with which I can help.
My job is to help take the debt burden off your back so you can move on with your life. I help take the mountain of debt and creditor information off your shoulders, and turn it into the detailed and thorough paperwork that is needed to file your bankruptcy petition.
Common Bankruptcy Questions Answered
Although the reasons why people end up in overwhelming debt vary, their questions about the bankruptcy process are often the same.
- How long does it take? That depends upon how promptly you gather your creditor information, and how backed up the Oregon court system may be. In general, the process from start to finish takes about four months. It includes a consumer counseling session before you file for bankruptcy, and debtor financial management counseling after filing.
- Do I qualify? There is a good chance you do. Most people, who do not qualify for a chapter 7 bankruptcy, will qualify for a chapter 13 bankruptcy. I would be happy to speak with you on the phone. Call 888-429-9637 to see if you are a good candidate for bankruptcy.
- Can I keep my house and my car? Generally, yes. What you keep depends upon how much equity you have and whether you file for chapter 7 or chapter 13. Typically, you can keep your house and car as long as you continue to make the monthly payments.
- What do I need to get started? Here is what you'll need to provide:
- The name and address for each of your creditors
- The amount you owe each of your creditors
- A copy of your most recently filed tax returns — Oregon and federal
- Pay stubs or verification of your income for the past 6 months
- What is exempt? In general, you may keep $40,000 in home equity for a single person and $50,000 in home equity as a couple, and each person may keep a vehicle worth $3,000. I can answer additional questions when we meet.
- How much do you charge? My fee for a consumer chapter 7 is $1,554 which includes attorney fees, filing fees and a consumer counseling fee.
Call 888-429-9637 for a Free Initial Consultation
I offer a free initial phone consultation for potential bankruptcy clients. My law office is conveniently located in Portland, Oregon, although I represent clients from a much wider area. Send me an e-mail if you need a lawyer's help with your debt issues.
We are a debt relief agency. We help people file for bankruptcy relief under the Bankruptcy Code.
