A Debt Relief Lawyer Who Understands The Law
My time as a bankruptcy attorney has given me a comprehensive understanding of the bankruptcy code as well as varied experience handling all types of bankruptcy cases, planning for bankruptcy and nonbankruptcy workouts.
If you are unsure about your debt relief options or how bankruptcy will affect you and your family, I will work with you to understand the benefits of bankruptcy and how it may affect your specific circumstances. I can help you make informed decisions about your financial future and find genuine relief from overwhelming debt.
Why File For Bankruptcy
People wind up filing for bankruptcy for many reasons, often involving outside forces or unforeseen expenses: Medical debt and unexpected health care costs can quickly spiral out of control, credit card debt can accrue due to business expenses or needing to use a credit card during periods of unemployment and low cash flow, investments in the stock market, real estate or other financial vehicles might suffer due to a financial crisis, or a supply chain shutdown can cause debt to cascade in times of pandemic or due to oil price fluctuations. In any of these situations, a bankruptcy attorney can help you find the best course of action.
Notice Of Stay To Creditors
Regardless of whether you file under Chapter 7 or Chapter 13, when you file a petition, a notice of stay is sent to all of your creditors that tells them that they are forbidden by law to have any contact with you or make any effort to collect the debt. That means that they cannot garnish your wages, they cannot sue you, they cannot call you on the phone, they cant even send you bills.
Any contact that a creditor wants to have with you about the debt, they have to call our office and deal with us instead.
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Want To Check Lawyer Discipline
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It is always a good idea to research your bankruptcy lawyer prior to hiring. Every state has a disciplinary organization that monitors attorneys, their licenses, and consumer complaints. By researching lawyer discipline you can:
- Ensure the attorney is currently licensed to practice in your state
- Gain an understanding of his or her historical disciplinary record, if any.
- Determine the seriousness of complaints/issues which could range from late bar fees to more serious issues requiring disciplinary action.
An Important Note Concerning The Bankruptcy Laws
Bankruptcy law changed in 2005 and has become more highly technical and procedural. It is also harder now for higher income persons to qualify for bankruptcy, making it more important to consult a bankruptcy attorney on your options and responsibilities. Therefore, if you are experiencing overwhelming debt or unmanageable financial trouble, it is more important than ever to consult an experienced bankruptcy attorney. We can help answer your questions and explain the process.
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Debt Relief From An Experienced Bankruptcy Attorney
If debt has taken over your life, I can help. Im Rush M. Shortley, Attorney at Law, and as an Iowa attorney who has practiced bankruptcy law for more than 40 years, I have seen the serious impact that overwhelming credit card bills, loans, medical expenses and other debts have on individuals and families.
I want you to know that you have legal options that can help you eliminate your debt and give you a fresh start with your finances. I am available to assist individuals, families, farmers and small businesses throughout eastern Iowa with their bankruptcy and other debt relief needs.
Why Choose O’flaherty Law
At our family law firm we like to keep legal matters simple and clear so that clients feel informed every step of the way. We understand that the legal process can be frightening and daunting, that’s why our specialist family lawyers and legal assistants consistently communicate to our clients.Our aim is to build a personal relationship with each of our clients and treat them with the respect that they deserve. We pride ourselves on our open lines of communication, frequent check-ins with our clients, and our accessibility. We are here to help you in any way we can, often leveraging our network of resources to assist you with non-legal issues that you may be having.âWe are your one-stop problem-solver and trusted adviser. All attorneys say that they provide excellent client service, but, unlike other law firms, we practice what we preach. We make sure every client walks away happy . . . period.
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Major Credit Reporting Companies And The Process
There are three major credit reporting companies: TransUnion, Experian, and Equifax. Under federal law, the Fair Credit Reporting Act, every person is entitled to a free credit report from each of these three companies every 12 months.
There is a website where you can go to access your free credit reports:annualcreditreport.com. All three of these companies are linked to this website and they know when you use this website to ask for a credit report that they cannot charge you for it, or make you sign up for other services in order to get the report.
Attorney Nathanson asks all of his clients to get a credit report as part of the process of preparing their bankruptcy petition, because he wants his clients to have a clean report when the bankruptcy process is finished. The only way to make sure of that is to examine a credit report, because often we find debts being reported on there that the client did not know about. If you do not have access to the Internet, we can help you pull a credit report here at the office.
Free Bankruptcy Attorney In Cedar Rapids Ia
Upsolve is a nonprofit tool that helps you file bankruptcy for free.Think TurboTax for bankruptcy. Get free education, customer support, and community. Featured in Forbes 4x and funded by institutions like Harvard University so we’ll never ask you for a credit card.Explore our free tool
Written byUpsolve Team.
So, youâve decided to get a fresh start byfiling for Chapter 7 bankruptcy.
This is a huge step toward a stronger financial future.
Chapter 7 bankruptcy is an importantdebt relief tool for Americans in severe financial distress from losing a job, getting injured, or getting divorced.
Hiring a good bankruptcy attorney like a member of theNACBAis a great investment. They will be available to answer your questions and help take care of the Chapter 7 paperwork for an average of $1500.
The problem is that many Cedar Rapidsresidents looking to file for bankruptcy but canât afford that rate.
If you need a fresh start in Cedar Rapids and cannot afford a lawyer, youâre not alone.
Weâll walk you through where to look and what âbrick and mortarâ legal aid resources are available in Cedar RapidsIA to help you get debt free. Youâll also learn about our digital legal aid nonprofit, Upsolve.org, that helps low income Americans who need a fresh start for free.
Whether or not you choose to file Chapter 7 using our free nonprofit Upsolve, this article will leave you much better prepared to obtain a better financial future.
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The Differences Between Chapter 7 And Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
Bankruptcy can provide credit card debt relief and help with overwhelming medical bills and mortgage payments. Knowing what type of bankruptcy to file is the first step in obtaining debt relief. For many people, understanding the differences between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 filings is already nebulous. Below are a few highlights that can help you in this process.
Chapter 7 bankruptcy can give you a full discharge of debt with no repayment. You may be able to keep your home and car as long as you are able to make the payments on them. At the moment you file for bankruptcy, an automatic stay goes into effect which prevents creditors from contacting you with collection efforts. Lawsuits and garnishments also stop when the automatic stay goes into effect. This option is best for those with few personal assets or who are in lower income brackets. It is not available to persons above certain income thresholds. Chapter 7 bankruptcy will stay on your credit report for 10 years.
Chapter 13 bankruptcy allows for a three- to five-year repayment plan that allows you to repay creditors some or all of the debt that you owe. Sometimes called wage earner bankruptcy, Chapter 13 requires that you are able to pay all of your current living expenses and have disposable income left over to pay your creditors. You need to have a steady regular source of income to qualify for Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Chapter 13 bankruptcy will stay on your credit report for seven years.
What Is It Like Working With Legal Aid
If you call a legal aid organization, you can expect a phone operator or paralegal to first ask questions to determine whether you qualify for their free assistance and to see if youâre a good fit for bankruptcy.
Different legal aid organizations collect this information in different ways.
Sometimes it will entail asking you to come into their office for an interview. Sometimes it will entail filling out a paper or online questionnaire.
As you complete this questionnaire, it is important, once again, to remain totally honest. The information you provide will go onto your bankruptcy forms that are submitted to the court.
If your legal aid organization provides help in a limited assistance capacity, like nonprofits such as Upsolve do, then youâll be responsible for filing the actual bankruptcy forms on your own and showing up by yourself to the 341 meeting.
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The Illinois Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Process Explained
In a Chapter 13 bankruptcy, the debtor pays off some or all of their debt through a 3-to-5-year payment plan. ââ¬Â¯This is different from a Chapter 7 bankruptcy, in which the debtorââ¬â¢s assets are collected and used to pay creditors, while any remaining debt is immediately discharged.
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Exceptions To The Legal Aid Requirements
Itâs possible that you can be eligible to get help from legal aid even if you donât meet any of the above requirements.
This usually happens if youâre amember of a certain group of people. For example, legal aid often have specific services for militaryveterans, senior citizens, or if you are living with certain medical conditions.
The best way to find out whether you can get help is to just call and speak to someone directly.
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What Can I Do If I Cant Afford A Bankruptcy Lawyer
If youthink you should file for bankruptcybut canât afford an attorney, you still have options.
There are nonprofit and legal aid organizations around Cedar Rapids that are able to provide free legal help to IA residents.
These organizations may have different requirements to use their service. Itâs important that you meet the requirements.
If youâre eligible, they can usually provide free legal representation or assist you in filing on your own.
Locating the service that can best help you is the first step to getting a fresh start.
Are You Looking For A Trusted Lawyer
If you live in the Cedar Rapids, IA area, we can assist you with accurate advice at an affordable price. We will stay focused on your case and give you the personal attention that you deserve.
If you live in the Cedar Rapids, IA area, we can assist you with accurate advice at an affordable price. We will stay focused on your case and give you the personal attention that you deserve.
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Using The Available Resources To Resolve Bankruptcy Issues
Steven Klesner is a lawyer who accepts routine as well as very challenging bankruptcy cases. We are a technologically savvy law firm that serves clients throughout the state via online meetings and other innovative technology. We provide a stand-alone website, , that provides bankruptcy education and informs clients on such matters as to what information they need to gather and credit counseling requirements.
Best Bankruptcy Lawyers In Cedar Rapids Ia
Expert recommended Top 3 Bankruptcy Lawyers in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. All of our bankruptcy lawyers actually face a rigorous 50-Point Inspection, which includes customer reviews, history, complaints, ratings, satisfaction, trust, cost and general excellence. You deserve only the best!
HONG LAW, PLC
Since 2007
Heres The Deal:Serve clients in and around the Cedar Rapids area. Pride themselves on personal service and up-front communication about your situation. Their dedicated team works to provide clients with effective representation as they tackle challenging legal processes related to bankruptcy. Dedicated to providing smart, effective bankruptcy litigation
SPECIALTY:
Mon – Fri 9:00 am – 6:00 pmSat & Sun Closed
Since 1993
Heres The Deal:Serves in across Iowa with offices in Cedar Rapids, Waterloo, Des Moines, Mason City & Vinton. He gives it to you straight without pulling any punches, lays out all your options, works one-on-one with you to get the right solution for your situation and delivers his services with integrity and precision. He realizes that you may be facing some very difficult decisions about your personal and business circumstances. Services in plain English
SPECIALTY:Chapter 7, Chapter 13, Chapter 12, Bankruptcy, Save Your Home, Stop Foreclosures, Wage Garnishments and Bank Levies, Creditor Calls and Harassment, Manage Debt, Taxes, Student Loans and Control Creditors, Debt Settlement & Tax Relief
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Cedar Rapids Divorce Lawyers & Family Law Attorneys
We are a Illinois based law firm with our Saint Charles office situated at 1616 4th Ave. SE, Ste. 108, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401Our Cedar Rapids family lawyers put the client first. We offer cost-effective rates, amazing client service, and a wide range of expertise. Our attorneys provide comprehensive representation that you can rely on in the areas of Indianapolis Divorce & Family Law, Estate Planning, Probate & Estate Administration, Civil Litigation, Guardianship, Corporate & Contract Law, DUI & Criminal Law and many other legal matters.Whether you are looking for legal advice or you need a criminal defense lawyer, at O’Flaherty law you count on comprehensive service. Our Lake Forest lawyers have years of experience and are dedicated to our clients. We offer a level of legal service with which you can be confident, whether you’re in need of a divorce attorney, criminal defense attorney or family law assistance.âWe provide representation throughout Cedar Rapids and all Iowa land areas. Experienced litigators with attention to detail whether you be the plaintiff or the defendant.
Suggestions From A Lawyer For Your Court Appearance
If you are getting ready for court and are wondering what you need for your court appearance, this article is intended to give you some general suggestions of how to get ready for court and how to behave in court. Itââ¬â¢s important that you properly prepare for court because it will potentially have a significant impact on your life.
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Why Choose Cedar Rapids Iowa Bankruptcy Attorney John Heckel
Every client is important to me!
Using my 40+years of experience in bankruptcy I help people in Iowa to start the new debtless life.
I’m with you every Step
I am there to process the necessary information and documents as well as answer all your questions. I am with you through the entire process.
A different approach to Bankruptcy
I handle my Bankruptcy cases differently. Unlike the most bankruptcy firms, I meet with you personally every time. When it is time to work on the petition and schedules of debts and assets, I sit down with my you and go through each part of the bankruptcy forms with you. Aside from a secretary answering the phone, I deal one on one with my clients. The answers to your questions come from me, not a paralegal or secretary, as I genuinely care about you!
What Questions Should I Ask A Bankruptcy Lawyer
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Not sure what to ask a bankruptcy lawyer? Here are a few sample questions to get you started:
- How long have you been in practice?
- How many bankruptcy cases have you handled?
- How much does a bankruptcy filing cost? How much of that cost is attorney fees vs. filing fees?
- Where is your office in Cedar Rapids located?
- What are the next steps?
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Reaching The Stars For Our Clients
But while you are dealing with frustration and stress, you should evaluate your situation and find help as soon as you can. Regardless of the intensity of the situation, you should take action and file for bankruptcy before things get out of hand.
If you are ready to find a way, Cedar Rapids Bankruptcy Solutions in Iowa can help you connect to the right bankruptcy lawyer Cedar Rapids IA who can handle your case professionally. We make sure that we review your case thoroughly and connect you with professionals who are always ready to deal with your problems.
The good thing is that the consultants in our legal center are just a phone call away. Our team ensures that they schedule your appointment with the best bankruptcy lawyers in Cedar Rapids Iowa, without any hassle-free procedures. Besides, we help create a connection between you and your bankruptcy attorney in Cedar Rapids Iowa, and take updates throughout the legal process.
If you really want to take a fresh start, contacting a consultant at Cedar Rapids Bankruptcy Solutions will be the best decision that you will make today.
Can I Keep A Credit Card
Dont count on it. It is always important to know if you can keep a credit card one with no balance on it. Especially, while traveling, it is very convenient to have a credit card. However, you should be cautious and should not expect to be able to keep one. Our bankruptcy lawyer in Cedar Rapids, IA residents will help you get the best outcome for your case wherever possible. Call us today to get started.
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