Find a Bankruptcy Lawyer in Simi Valley, California

Find the right Bankruptcy attorney in Simi Valley, CA

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In Simi Valley, California, bankruptcy is a court procedure in which a person or business has some or all of their debts absolved (or "discharged"), theoretically allowing them to commence with a clean slate, and move on with their lives no longer drowning in debt (and hopefully having learned to better manage their use of credit in the process). Remember, though, that bankruptcy should not be viewed as a fitting way to get out of debt that you don't feel like paying back. It is meant to serve as an option of last resort for people and businesses faced with debt that they will probably never be able to pay back. The decision to file for bankruptcy can result in negative consequences, such as damaged credit ratings, which must be seriously weighed against the probable benefits.

For that reason, it would be advisable to speak with a good Simi Valley, California bankruptcy attorney. This attorney will be able to advise you as to whether or not filing for bankruptcy is a good idea, given your specific situation. This determination is highly dependent on the details of each individual case, so a Simi Valley attorney's advice is really indispensable.

Types of Bankruptcy in Simi Valley, California

In Simi Valley, California, 3 types of bankruptcy procedures are in common use: Chapter 7, Chapter 11, and Chapter 13. Being governed by federal law, the procedures involved in filing for bankruptcy in Simi Valley, California will be roughly the same as everywhere else in America. Chapter 7 bankruptcy involves liquidation of part of the debtor's assets to pay off as much of his or her debt as possible. Once the liquidation is done, and the proceeds given to the creditors, the rest of the debt is discharged. Liquidation is essentially selling assets to the highest bidder. Only some of the debtor's assets have to be sold, and numerous classes of property are exempt, meaning that the debtor can keep them, including homes, cars, insurance policies, and retirement accounts. It should be noted that certain types of debt cannot be discharged through Chapter 7 bankruptcy, including student loans, child support payments, criminal fines, and recent taxes.

The other frequent bankruptcy scheme used by consumers in Simi Valley is Chapter 13 bankruptcy. In this system, debt is not discharged. Instead, it is restructured. This allows the debtor to have the terms of the arrangements that gave rise to their debts in the first place thrown out, and replaced with new terms that call for a structured repayment plan, designed to allow the debtor to survive on whatever income they have, and allowing the creditors to get paid back eventually. Once a payment plan is authorized, creditors are not allowed to attempt to collect payment under the original agreements. Though applicable to individuals, Chapter 11 bankruptcy is typically used by businesses. Like Chapter 13, Chapter 11 requires the restructuring of debts. Under this system, the debtor must come up with a plan to reduce debt, cut costs, and improve operations. Once this plan is finalized, it is submitted to the participating creditors, who must approve it by a majority vote before it can be implemented.

One major advantage of Chapter 11 bankruptcy is that it allows businesses to continue their operations while the process plays out. Moreover, their stock can still be bought and sold.

How Can a Simi Valley Bankruptcy Lawyer Help?

The need to examine all the options and consider the costs and benefits of applying for bankruptcy in Simi Valley cannot be overstated. If you are considering filing for bankruptcy, it would be a good idea to speak with a Simi Valley bankruptcy attorney beforehand.

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Life in Simi Valley

Simi Valley is a suburb located in beautiful Southern California, bordering San Fernando Valley and the greater Los Angeles area. Simi Valley is surrounded by the Santa Susana Mountain range and the Simi Hills; therefore is known for gorgeous sites that emphasize Mother Nature's beauty. With such an appeal also labels the area as a high-risk location for wildfires.

Simi Valley has been pictured in many popular Hollywood movies including Poltergeist, Little House on the Prairie, The Thorn Birds, Bachelor Party, and The Doberman Gang.

Top employers in the area include the school districts and hospitals, as well as Farmers Insurance Group, AeroVironment, Vons, Meggitt Safety Systems, Wal-Mart, Milgard Manufacturing, and Rancho Simi Parks Recreation District.

Southern California is home to many law school and firms of all sizes. Moreover, many ivy-league educated attorneys make Southern California their home after graduation. Thus, the legal force in and near Simi Valley is served by brilliant attorneys who are trained by some of the largest firms. Also, the vast number of firms bring about fierce competition and competitive pricing for Simi Valley residents. All in all, Simi Valley residents can rest assured that any legal inquiry of theirs can be handled by the legal industry in and around Simi Valley.