Find a Bankruptcy Lawyer in Bristol, Rhode Island

Find the right Bankruptcy attorney in Bristol, RI

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In Bristol, Rhode Island, bankruptcy is a judicial process in which the debts of a person or business can be absolved or restructured. This allows the debtor to climb out of a financial hole, and move on with a clean slate, which is sometimes more economically proficient than requiring the debtor to pay off everything they owe. Of course, one should never view bankruptcy as a "get out of debt free" card, allowing someone to be discharged of their obligation to pay their debts just because they don't want to. It is meant to serve as a lifeline, preventing unmanageable debt from resulting in complete financial ruin. Accordingly, it is best treated as an option of last resort, because it can carry with it significant negative consequences, which must be weighed against the possible benefits. For example, filing for bankruptcy can severely damage a person's credit rating.

Accordingly, it might be a good idea to consult with a Bristol, Rhode Island bankruptcy attorney. Your lawyer will be able to counsel you about your options, including alternatives to bankruptcy, if such alternatives exist in your case. Whatever the result, it is often challenging to anticipate the long-term consequences of any bankruptcy-related decisions, so the advice of a bankruptcy in Bristol could prove invaluable.

Types of Bankruptcy in Bristol, Rhode Island

In Bristol, Rhode Island, there are three basic bankruptcy schemes that are most frequently used. They are identified as Chapter 7, Chapter 13, and Chapter 11. Being a product of federal law, the procedural rules governing bankruptcy in Bristol, Rhode Island will be very similar to those in any other part of the United States. Chapter 7 bankruptcy requires the debtor to liquidate some of his or her assets in order to pay off as much debt as possible. Once the sale of the assets is complete, and the proceeds handed over to the creditors, the debt is viewed as discharged. Liquidation is basically selling assets to the highest bidder. Not all of the debtor's assets will need to be sold, and many types of property are entirely or partially exempt, including homes, cars, retirement accounts, and insurance policies. This means that the debtor can keep them. It should be noted that some types of debts are not dischargeable in Chapter 7 bankruptcy, including student loans, criminal fines, taxes, and child support payments. Even when the bankruptcy process is complete, these debts will have to be paid in full.

The other normally used bankruptcy system in Bristol is Chapter 13 bankruptcy. This allows a debtor to repay most or all of their debts in a structured manner. It reorganizes the debt into lower periodic payments that, with a bit of frugality, the debtor should find manageable. This allows the debtor to continue to earn a living, and allows the creditors to eventually collect what they are owed. Once a repayment plan is approved by the bankruptcy court, creditors are legally barred from seeking repayment under the terms of the arrangements that gave rise to the debt in the first place, and will instead have to accept payment under the new plan. Chapter 13 bankruptcy is typically a better option for people who have a steady income. Although it can be used by individuals, Chapter 11 bankruptcy is used almost exclusively by businesses. Not unlike Chapter 13, Chapter 11 focuses on restructuring of debt, rather than discharging it. Chapter 11 requires that the debtor come up with a reorganization plan designed to reduce debt and cut costs. Before being enforced, this plan must be approved by a majority vote of participating creditors.

During the Chapter 11 process, a business can typically continue its operations, and the stock can be traded, even if it is de-listed from a major stock exchange.

How Can a Bristol Bankruptcy Lawyer Help?

The decision to file for bankruptcy in Bristol is not one to be made lightly, and it certainly should not be made without first obtaining the advice of an efficient Bristol bankruptcy attorney.

Talk to a Bankruptcy & Finances Law Attorney now!

Life in Bristol

Bristol is located in Bristol County, Rhode Island. It is a small city with a population of around 23,000 people. It is a seaport that is named after Bristol, England. In fact, the atmosphere at Bristol Harbor is very serene and peaceful. It is one of Bristol's most beautiful spots!

Major industries that drive Bristol's economy include boat building, manufacturing and tourism. Some great attractions include America's Cup Hall of Fame, Blithewold Mansion, Gardens and Arboretum, Bristol County Jail, Bristol County Courthouse, Bristol Ferry Lighthouse, Colt State Park, Gillary's Tavern, Herreshoff Marine Museum, Linden Place, Mount Hope Bridge, Poppasquash Farms Historic District, Joseph Reynolds House, and Coggeshall Farm Museum. As evident, Bristol is a history-lover's delight!

Bristol is also home to many law offices established by competent attorneys. These attorneys are well-experienced in many areas of law, making them easily able to handle the legal needs of residents and local businesses.

All in all, Bristol has it all--beauty, history, charm, and serenity!