Chapter 7 is the most common type of bankruptcy. In this economy, far too many have been forced to seek relief from crushing debt. Many people were barely hanging on until their job was lost. After juggling bills, paying only minimums and prioritizing, the house of cards finally collapses. There is no possible way to catch up. Even if another job is finally found, the salary is often only half of what was earned at the previous job. The stress of dealing with the situation has landed more than a few people in the hospital, compounding the situation.
Filing for bankruptcy is not a simple process. Chapter 7, or liquidation bankruptcy, allows people to keep their most important assets: their home and household items, furniture, clothing, car, qualified retirement plans and other exempt assets. The bankruptcy trustee is allowed to sell, or liquidate, assets that fall outside these parameters and divide the proceeds among the creditors.
Credit card, utility and medical bills can be discharged under Chapter 7, but some debts cannot be included. Alimony, child support, IRS taxes and liens, student loans and illegal debts cannot be discharged under the law. Nonessential purchases, especially of luxury items, that the creditor purchased within 3 months of filing are also not dischargeable. It is also important to know which types of income will need to be considered. An experienced Bankruptcy Attorney in Des Moines will be able to advise on all of these matters and should be consulted.
Kevin Ahrenholz is a Bankruptcy Attorney in Des Moines, IA and is a partner at the Beecher law firm. His 20 years of experience in the creditor-debtor industry and with the Iowa and Wisconsin Supreme Courts greatly benefit his clients. He received his juris doctorate from Marquette University Law School and practices in both Iowa and Wisconsin, as well as before the Federal Court and the U.S. Tax Court. Mr. Ahrenholz’s expertise in bankruptcy allows him to lecture frequently on bankruptcy and creditor issues. This Bankruptcy Attorney in Des Moines understands that each case is unique and designs a carefully thought-out plan that is in the best interests of each client.
