How to Make Bankruptcy Process Smooth for You and Your Attorney

How to Make Bankruptcy Process Smooth for You and Your Attorney by OlsenDaines in the Vancouver-Portland Metro area.

Are you one of those people who are overwhelmed by debt and are contemplating filing for bankruptcy? If so, this post is for you.

Filing for bankruptcy might seem complicated, but it doesn’t have to be. To make the process smoother and less stressful for you and your attorney, consider taking a few simple steps. In this post, we’ll discuss what great bankruptcy clients do to help their attorneys assist them effectively.

Provide Documents in an Appropriate Format

One of the most important things you can do to help your attorney is to provide all the necessary documents in an appropriate format. Typically, people use PDF documents in the business world, and most bankruptcy attorneys also accept PDF. If you provide documents in alternate formats like JPEG or TIFF format, it may take your attorney extra time to modify them before submitting them to the court. Some attorneys offer a portal where you can upload your documents, while others may prefer to receive them by email. Either way, it’s crucial to send all the documents in one email with multiple well-labeled attachments.

Organize Your Documents

Bankruptcy involves summoning a lot of paperwork, and you will need to provide financial information about your assets, debts, and income. Thus, you must ensure all your documents are well-organized before giving them to your attorney. Go through all your documents and create a checklist of required documents. Label each document using appropriate titles such as bank statements, pay stubs, tax returns, or insurance documents. It’s essential to provide all necessary documents since you need a document to ensure your bankruptcy case is completed on time.

Provide Accurate Information

To fill out the bankruptcy petition, your attorney will need accurate information from you. Therefore, it’s essential to be honest and forthright about your finances, assets, and debts. Providing inaccurate information will not only delay your case but can also result in legal consequences. Be sure to inform your attorney of any significant debt or assets you own, even if it’s not listed in your credit report or financial statement.

Answer All Questions Honestly

Your attorney will ask you many questions, some of which may seem too personal. They may ask about your income, expenses, past bankruptcies, or lifestyle. It’s vital to answer all the questions honestly since providing false or inaccurate information can have legal consequences. Your attorney may even re-phrase a question or ask it in a slightly different way to ensure they get an accurate response.

Keep in Touch With Your Attorney

You and your attorney are a team, and communication is vital to ensuring the bankruptcy process runs smoothly. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your case, contact your attorney immediately. Ensure that you respond to all their queries promptly and honestly. Keep your attorney updated on any changes to your finances or personal life, such as job loss, marriage, or relocation.

Bankruptcy can be an overwhelming experience, but with the proper support, it doesn’t have to be. By following these tips, you can make the bankruptcy process smoother and easier for you and your attorney. Remember to provide all the necessary documents in an appropriate format, be honest and accurate about your financial information, and keep in touch with your attorney throughout the process. By doing these things, you will increase the chances of a successful bankruptcy filing and move towards a new financial beginning.

Do you have questions regarding the bankruptcy process? Wondering if bankruptcy is right for you? Whatever questions you may have, we can help. Call today to schedule your free consultation with one of our experienced bankruptcy attorneys in the Vancouver-Portland metro area.

Protecting Your Assets During Bankruptcy: How We Can Help

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Dealing with the possibility of bankruptcy or actually going through the process can be an extremely overwhelming situation for anyone. It is not uncommon for people to feel lost, anxious, stressed, and ashamed of their financial situation. 

At OlsenDaines, we understand how important it is for our clients to not only receive relief from their overwhelming debt but also to protect their hard-earned assets. That’s why we are here to assist you in navigating the complexities of how to protect your assets during bankruptcy.

Understanding Bankruptcy and Asset Protection

Most people file for bankruptcy due to job loss, medical debt, or divorce. Whatever the reason, our team of bankruptcy attorneys can help you navigate through this process and make sure that your assets are protected. One of the most significant concerns clients have is whether or not they will lose their assets if they file for bankruptcy. The answer is no, in almost all cases. We will work with you to protect your home, cars, retirement accounts, and other personal property. We are here to ensure that you keep the assets you value the most.

How to Stop Creditor Harassment

Another frequently asked question is whether bankruptcy will stop creditors from harassing and suing them. Again, the answer is yes. Once you file for bankruptcy, creditors are immediately notified through the federal court system and must immediately stop harassment, lawsuits, and any other form of collection of debts. We understand that the constant harassment can be troubling, and protecting our clients from continued harassment is a top priority for us.

Property Listing and Exemptions

As part of the bankruptcy process, you must list all of your property, both real and personal. This includes your home, vehicles, retirement accounts, and household goods and belongings. But there’s no need to worry – there are specific exemptions under state or federal law that protect your property throughout the bankruptcy process. We understand the nuances of federal bankruptcy law and will walk you through each step so that you understand how assets are protected and how a fresh start can help rebuild your life.

How to Rebuild Credit After Bankruptcy

Another question we commonly receive is whether or not filing for bankruptcy will affect future credit. While it is true that bankruptcy does affect credit scores, there are strategies we can use to mitigate any harm that may negatively impact your credit record. We can help you rebuild your credit score after bankruptcy and get back on track to a healthy financial future.

Contact Us for Help Protecting Your Assets During Bankruptcy  

The legal process of filing for bankruptcy and protecting your assets can be confusing and overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. At OlsenDaines, our experienced bankruptcy attorneys can help. We will provide you with the guidance you need to protect your assets and navigate through the process of filing for bankruptcy. We are here to help you receive a fresh start and rebuild your financial future. We believe that everyone deserves the chance to move past their debts and have a bright financial future.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and get started on the path to financial freedom.

Protecting Your Assets: What to Do When You’re Behind on Mortgage and Car Payments

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Knowing how to protect your assets can be difficult, but an experienced attorney can help. It’s never a great feeling when you’re falling behind on your mortgage or car payments. You start to feel like you’ll never catch up or get back on track. It can be an incredibly stressful situation, especially if you’re relying on that car to get to work or don’t want to lose your home. Luckily, you have options. Filing for bankruptcy can be a great solution for protecting your assets and giving you the breathing room you need to get back on your feet. In this post, we’ll go over what happens when you’re behind on mortgage and car payments and how you can protect yourself by filing for bankruptcy.

What To Expect When You’re Behind On Payments

The first thing you need to know is that when you’re behind on your mortgage or car payments, creditors have the legal right to take possession of the asset and sell it to recoup the money you owe. Foreclosure or repossession of assets can obviously be a nightmare scenario, especially when it comes to your home. The good news is that bankruptcy can stop this process, at least temporarily.

How Filing for Bankruptcy Can Help You Protect Your Assets

When you file for bankruptcy, creditors are required by law to halt any foreclosure or repossession proceedings. This break in collection efforts can give you the time you need to catch up on payments and get back on track.

Of course, filing for bankruptcy isn’t a magic wand that will make all your debts disappear. However, it does give you more options when it comes to paying back what you owe. When you file for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, for example, you can create a payment plan to pay back debts over a period of three to five years. The payment plan can include the arrears on your mortgage or car loan, which you can pay back in smaller, more manageable installments. A plan with smaller payments can be a huge relief for those who are struggling to make the full payments all at once.

One thing to keep in mind is that bankruptcy can have an impact on your credit score. is something that will need to be weighed against the benefits of getting back on track with your payments. That being said, if you’re already behind on payments, your credit score is likely already taking a hit, and bankruptcy can actually help you start to rebuild your credit over time. It’s not a decision to be taken lightly, but it can be a very viable solution for those who are struggling to keep up with debt.

How Do You Know If You’re Eligible to File for Bankruptcy?

An important note for those who are considering bankruptcy is that there are certain requirements you’ll need to meet to be eligible. For example, to file for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you’ll need to have a reliable source of income to make the payments on your repayment plan. You’ll also need to meet certain debt limits, which can vary depending on where you live. Working with a bankruptcy attorney can help you understand your options and whether bankruptcy is the right choice for you in protecting your assets.

How Our Attorney’s Can Help You Protect Your Assets

When facing the daunting task of being several months behind on mortgage payments due to medical debt and a medical leave of absence, clients named Steven and Gloria were fortunate enough to have federal bankruptcy laws on their side. By working with OlsenDaines Law firm, their home was saved, and they were able to pay back the amount they owed over a five-year period. This payment plan allowed them to stay in their home, raising their three minor children in a stable environment. By retaining the services of OlsenDaines, all creditors were referred to the firm, and the federal bankruptcy petition was prepared accurately and thoroughly. With the guidance of an attorney, clients can rest assured that their matters will be handled carefully and with their best interest in mind.

Contact Us for Help Protecting Your Assets

If you’re falling behind on your mortgage or car payments, it can be an incredibly stressful time. However, it’s important to know that you do have options, and one of those options is bankruptcy. By filing for bankruptcy, you can protect your assets, create a payment plan to catch up on debts, and even start to rebuild your credit over time. It’s not a decision to be made lightly, but it can be a very effective way to get back on track and give yourself a fresh start. If you’re struggling with debt, contact a bankruptcy attorney to discuss your options and see if bankruptcy is the right choice for you. Contact us today to schedule your free bankruptcy consultation.

How to file an adversary proceeding for student loan bankruptcy

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As most people dealing with debt know, there are many different kinds of debt and some types are more difficult to eliminate in bankruptcy than others. Student loan debt is one such debt that’s not automatically discharged in bankruptcy proceedings. Unfortunately, this fact has led many people to believe that student loans can’t be discharged at all. Many borrower can discharge student loan debt through bankruptcy, but it requires additional steps.

This post explains how to file an adversary proceeding for student debt bankruptcy in Oregon, and help you decide whether it’s the right move for you.

How Do You File an Adversary Complaint for Student Loan Bankruptcy?

Getting student debt discharged through bankruptcy requires filing for an adversary proceeding. An adversary proceeding is a legal action that occurs within a bankruptcy case; it’s a formal process used to address specific issues or disputes between various parties that cannot be resolved through the regular bankruptcy process.

What are the Steps to Getting Student Debt Discharged through Bankruptcy?

The first step should always be consulting with an experienced bankruptcy attorney. Bankruptcy laws are extremely intricate, and this process is no exception. Need help finding a student loan lawyer? Check out our blog on how to hire the best student loan lawyer for you. 

If you and your bankruptcy attorney believe your case meets the criteria, you should proceed with these steps:

  • File the complaint: The complaint is filed with the bankruptcy court overseeing your case. There are specific forms and procedures you need to follow, which your attorney will be familiar with. Filing the complaint initiates the adversary proceeding and sets the legal process in motion.
  • Serving the parties involved: After filing the complaint, it must be properly served to all relevant parties, including the student loan lender or servicer. This ensures that everyone involved is aware of the legal action and can respond accordingly.
  • Responses and negotiations: The opposing party will respond to your complaint. This usually leads to negotiations or settlement discussions. Your attorney will guide you through these interactions and help you make informed decisions about potential resolutions.
  • Court proceedings: Depending on the progress of your adversary proceeding, you might need to attend a deposition and trial. Your attorney will represent your interests and present your case to the judge.
  • Decision rendered: The judge will ultimately make the decision. If the court rules in your favor, your student loans will be fully discharged.  The judge can also order a partial discharge if it appears you can pay back some but not all of your student loans.

How Do They Decide Whether to Discharge Your Student Debt?

The judge will make a decision based on your specific situation. The decision is based on three main guidelines:

  • Are you unable to maintain a minimal standard of living for you and your dependents? This is determined by current income and expenses.
  • Is there a likelihood you will be able to pay back your loans in the future? Factors the judge will consider include disabilities, long-term unemployment, and other adverse circumstances.
  • Have you made a good faith effort to repay your loan up until this point? If you’ve enrolled in an income-driven repayment plan, applied for forbearance or forgiveness programs, or consolidation, this can be used as evidence that you have made a good faith effort to pay.

Are You a Candidate for Student Loan Debt Discharge through Bankruptcy?

If student debt is crushing your ability to become financially independent, you may be a good candidate for student debt forgiveness. Of course, as with any possible legal strategy, it’s vitally important to get an opinion from a lawyer with specialized knowledge – in this case, an experienced bankruptcy attorney. An lawyer who focuses his practice on bankruptcy issues will understand the ins and outs of this particular area of law and can review with you some important considerations before you move forward.

While discharging student loans through bankruptcy is not guaranteed, taking the right steps and seeking professional guidance can increase your chances of achieving a favorable outcome and gaining relief from your student loan debt. If you’re ready to start exploring your options for filing an adversary complaint for student loan bankruptcy, give us a call today. Our experienced Oregon-based bankruptcy attorneys are ready to answer all your questions.

Steps To Hiring a Lawyer For Student Loan Forgiveness

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For many people in the United States, student loans are a source of overwhelming financial stress. If you are struggling to repay your debt, a student loan attorney can help you – from reaching student loan forgiveness to lowering your monthly payments, a lawyer has the expertise needed to significantly reduce your financial burden.

However, if you are already struggling to make payments on your debt, the idea of spending even more money on a lawyer may feel overwhelming. To help you determine whether a student loan lawyer is right for you, here’s what you need to know about the costs (and savings) associated with student debt attorneys.

Why Hire a Student Loan Lawyer?

A student loan lawyer is a legal professional who specializes in the laws and regulations pertaining to student debt. They can provide guidance and representation to borrowers who are overwhelmed with their payments, facing predatory lending practices, or dealing with other debt-related problems. Student loan lawyers can help by:

  • Combatting predatory lenders: If you suspect you are the victim of predatory lending practices, an attorney can help hold your lender accountable. They know the ins and outs of consumer protection laws and can pursue remediation from unfair or illegal lending situations.
  • Negotiating settlements: An attorney can work with your lenders to make your debt more manageable. They may help lower interest rates, map out an achievable payment plan, and find other ways to help relieve the burden of your debt. 
  • Defending against lawsuits: In some circumstances, a private lender may take legal action against you. A student loan lawyer can help you navigate the situation and defend you in court for a more favorable outcome.
  • Navigating forgiveness programs: Many people don’t realize that they may qualify for a student loan forgiveness program. An attorney can examine your situation to help you find and qualify for student debt forgiveness.
  • Discharging student loans through bankruptcy: Depending on your situation, you may be able to discharge your student debt through bankruptcy. Thanks to new policy updates by the Department of Education, student loan forgiveness is more accessible using this approach than ever before.
  • Dealing with debt collectors: Debt collection agencies can be incredibly difficult to deal with. A lawyer will not only protect you against collector misconduct, but they can also handle communications to make your situation less stressful.

How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Student Loan Lawyer?

The cost of a student loan lawyer can vary significantly, often ranging between a few hundred dollars to a few thousand. How much you will pay typically depends on which fee structure the lawyer uses. The most common fee structures include:

  • Hourly rates: When you pay the lawyer an hourly rate, it can be challenging to predict exactly how much their services will cost in total.
  • Flat fees: This is when you pay the lawyer a set amount for their services, which can be helpful if you want to know exactly how much their services will cost before starting.
  • Contingencies: This is where the lawyer is only paid if they reach a desired result. It is most commonly used for class action lawsuits.
  • Hybrid plans: A lawyer may charge both a flat fee and a contingency. Similar to a regular contingency, this is most common in class action lawsuits.

Can Hiring a Student Loan Lawyer Save Me Money?

Though hiring a student loan lawyer may seem costly, doing so could save you thousands of dollars in the long run. By relieving some – or all – of your student loans, they can drastically lower your monthly payments, help you combat wage garnishment, and overall make your debt more manageable. The money you invest in a student loan attorney today can certainly save you a lot in the future.

Get a Free Legal Consultation

Considering investing in a student loan lawyer, but want to learn more about the process or costs? Get a free legal consultation from the experts at OlsenDaines! For over 40 years, we’ve been representing residents in Oregon with the goal of educating, informing, and empowering our clients. Your financial recovery is our top priority, which is why we offer affordable rates and disclose all of our fees from the very beginning. If you’re ready to learn more or get started, call us today to schedule your consultation.

Explaining the New Bankruptcy Discharge Process for Student Loan Borrowers

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Over 42.8 million Americans have student loans, making it one of the most common forms of debt in the United States. While the amount of student loan debt has increased in recent years, it remains one of the most challenging types of debt to discharge through bankruptcy. However, the Department of Education recently reformed its policies to make the discharge process easier and more accessible to student loan borrowers. In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about the new bankruptcy discharge process for student loans. 

Adversary Proceedings and “Undue Hardship”

In order to be considered for student loan discharge, individuals must initiate a separate lawsuit within their bankruptcy case called an “adversary proceeding”. During this process, the debtor is essentially suing the student loan lender. To do so, however, the debtor must demonstrate that he or she is experiencing “undue hardship” as a result of the loans.

Prior to these policy changes “undue hardship” was an undefined term in the bankruptcy code, which made it challenging for courts to judge each case by universal standards – leaving a lot of room for interpretation. 

In the past, most courts used something called the “Brunner Test” to determine who qualified for student loan discharge. This test was originally created in a 1987 court case during which a woman attempted to discharge her student loans less than a year after earning her degree. The goal of the test was to deter individuals from rushing into bankruptcy immediately after graduating, and it includes three questions:

  • Have you made a good-faith effort to repay the loans?
  • Are you unable to maintain a minimal standard of living while making the payments?
  • Is your financial situation likely to persist?

If the answer to each of these questions is “yes” and is supported by extensive evidence, then the loans can be discharged. 

On the surface, this may seem like a great system for discharging student debt. However, adversary proceedings are lengthy and costly, and they often weren’t successful because the requirements to pass the Brunner Test were still highly variable. Over time the test became increasingly difficult to pass, and many legal experts think it is now close to impossible to have loans discharged through this method.

How New Policy Changes Make Student Loan Discharge More Accessible

Debtors are still required to initiate an adversary proceeding within their bankruptcy case in order to be considered for student loan discharge.  The recent policy changes will ease the process by:

  • Setting clear standards for what is considered “undue hardship”: The current process uses arbitrary methods to review evidence and determine whether the debtor is experiencing undue hardship. According to the Department of Justice’s recent press release, the new process will include a thorough review of the debtor’s financial situation against concrete standards. These standards will be based on data provided by the Department of Education, along with other information that could contribute to undue hardship. This will ensure each debtor is judged fairly, without room for subjectivity.
  • Allowing for partial discharge if appropriate: Historically, student loans were either completely discharged or left entirely intact. The new policy changes allow for partial discharges depending on the debtor’s financial situation, which will make relief more accessible to those who are struggling with student loans. 

Considering Bankruptcy?

If you are overwhelmed with debt and need relief, don’t hesitate to contact the knowledgeable bankruptcy attorneys at OlsenDaines. Whether you’re dealing with significant student loans or other types of debt, we can assess your situation and help you determine the best course of action to regain financial stability. With over 40 years of experience serving individuals and businesses throughout the state of Oregon, we know how to help you with everything from foreclosures to creditor harassment. Whatever you’re facing, we can help. Just give us a call today to schedule your free legal consultation.