I have represented people filing bankruptcy since 1987. Just about everyday of my professional career I talk with people like you who are going through a financial crisis, and like you, the vast majority are good people who never dreamed they would someday consider filing for bankruptcy relief.

Most people want to repay their creditors if they could. I know that thinking about bankruptcy can be frightening, not to mention the blow it may inflict to your personal pride. Many clients often tell me of their exemplary past credit history, even though it has little to do with their present predicament. I suspect the reason arises from a need to explain why they are different from the cheats and criminals they had always perceived typically abused the bankruptcy process. The irony is that they are typical of those who file bankruptcy. It is simply a myth to believe that most bankruptcy filers can pay their debts. The fact is most filers have already sold valuable assets, borrowed from friends, relatives and other credit lines attempting to keep-up, and finally reached the point where there is simply no other place to turn.

The most common reasons for filing bankruptcy include loss of employment, health problems, divorce, or a failed business venture. Most recently, bankruptcy filings are surging as a result of the unprecedented availability of high interest credit cards being pushed by corporate loansharks targeting America’s working and middle class.  And carrying thousands of dollars in high interest debt spells disaster when combined with job loss, divorce or some other unforeseen disaster.

The inability to keep current on payments causes stress that affects marriages, jobs and all other aspects of daily life. Anyone who has suffered a barrage of hostile telephone calls from bill collectors knows something must eventually give. The bankruptcy laws provide a safety valve for honest people to start over and live normal lives again. bankruptcy isn’t an occasion to celebrate, but you shouldn't feel like an outcast either. If you are experiencing a financial crisis –  you are not alone! Yearly, over a million and a half people turn to the bankruptcy laws for debt relief. Statistics show the cross section of people filing bankruptcy mirror society as a whole by income, type of employment, home ownership and almost any other relevant category. In other words, anyone can find themselves in bankruptcy. In these days of corporate downsizing, and uncertain economic conditions, more and more people are in need of a fresh start.

Helping people understand the bankruptcy laws has been my career, and I understand what people go through in deciding whether bankruptcy is the right choice.

People are understandably concerned that they will lose their home or vehicle.  Let me assure you that this is not often the case. Be cautious of well meaning people who tell “horror” stories about bankruptcy. I am continually amazed by the degree of misinformation being circulated. I offer a free consultation to explain the facts about the bankruptcy process and answer your questions.

In the meantime just remember - you are not alone!

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