Consumer Bankruptcy Lawyers in Joliet, Illinois

Find the right Consumer Bankruptcy attorney in Joliet, IL

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Bankruptcy is a legal procedure allowing a person or business to have their debts absolved, in part or in whole. It is normally treated as a last resort, because, while it can prevent financial catastrophe, it has some huge long-term consequences. This warrants careful consideration of the costs and benefits. Bankruptcy is governed by federal law and handled in federal courts, so the procedural and substantive rules involved in Illinois are often the same as anywhere else in the U.S. However, individual bankruptcy courts have slightly different rules for items such as exemptions, so it would be a good idea to consult with a local Joliet, Illinois bankruptcy Lawyer beforehand.

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy in Joliet, Illinois

In Joliet, Illinois, there are 2 commonly-used forms of consumer bankruptcy: Chapter 7 and Chapter 13. Chapter 7 involves liquidation of some of a debtor's assets. It requires that a certain percentage of the debtor's property to be sold to pay off as much debt as possible. The majority of property that most people own, however, is exempt. This normally includes homes, vehicles, retirement accounts, and others. These are not available to creditors.

Once the qualifying property is sold, and the funds transferred to the creditors, the dischargeable debt is cleared. Some types of debt, however, can't be absolved in Chapter 7 Bankruptcy in Joliet, Illinois. These include student loans, criminal fines, and taxes, among others. If most of your debt can't be absolved, Chapter 7 might not be the best choice for you.

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy in Joliet, Illinois

In Joliet, Illinois, chapter 13 is very different from Chapter 7, and may or may not be the best option for you, depending on your situation. Chapter 13 Bankruptcy involves a court setting up a modified payment plan, which allows the debtor to pay off most or all of his debts over a prolonged period of time, through monthly payments that should, assuming that the debtor is willing to make a few sacrifices, be manageable.

Which Type of Consumer Bankruptcy Should I File in Joliet, Illinois

The answer to this question depends heavily on your particular situation. If you have enough steady income to manage a payment plan, and a lot of non-exempt property that you are unwilling to part with, Chapter 13 might be a good option. If you don't have much steady income, and most of your property is exempt, Chapter 7 might be better.

In any case, you should talk with a local Joliet, Illinois bankruptcy Attorney. Your Attorney can advise you of your options and inform you of their likely outcome. This will make it much easier for your to make an informed choice.

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Life in Joliet

Joliet, Illinois is the fastest growing city in the state. It is the seat of Will County and was incorporated as early as 1852. Joliet is nicknamed "The City of Champions" on account of the many national and state titles won by local school bands and sports teams. It is also nicknamed "The City of Steel" as well as the "City of Stone", reflecting its historical background in those industries.

Currently the city of Joliet, Illinois has attracted large numbers of new residents seeking to work and live in the area. Family entertainment in Joliet is abundant, consisting of several golf courses, bike trails, and old-style movie theaters. The city also has several landmarks that often appear in the setting of major motion picture films, such as the Rialto Square Theater.

Every year Joliet enjoys a large influx of visitors who come to the city to watch NASCAR automobile races and to participate in high-end motorsports events. These are hosted at places like the Chicagoland Speedway and the Autobahn Country Club.

Joliet, Illinois has quickly become an important hub for commerce and residential living. Lawyers in Joliet are available to assist in many different areas of law. Joliet, Illinois lawyers hone their professional skills through state and county bar associations.