Find a Bankruptcy Lawyer in Staunton, Virginia

Find the right Bankruptcy attorney in Staunton, VA

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Bankruptcy in Staunton, Virginia is a court proceeding which allows an individual or business who is drowning in debt to be discharged of their legal requirement to pay off some or all of their debt. Hopefully, this will allow both the debtor and creditors to move on with their lives. However, bankruptcy is not a free ride, allowing someone who simply doesn't feel like paying their debts to get out of that legal requirement. It is designed to prevent debt which has slight chance of ever being paid back from ruining the life and finances of the debtor. It also carries significant long-term consequences, which must be carefully weighed against the potential benefits. For example, bankruptcy makes it very difficult for the debtor to obtain credit in the near future.

Therefore, it is a good idea to talk with an veteran bankruptcy lawyer in Staunton, Virginia. They will be able to advise you on the likely legal and financial consequences of filing for bankruptcy, and help you determine if it's the right option for your. Because this determination depends heavily on the facts of each distinct case, the counsel of a Staunton bankruptcy attorney cannot be replaced.

Types of Bankruptcy in Staunton, Virginia

There are three basic bankruptcy schemes that are most commonly used in Staunton: Chapters 7, 13, and 11. Bankruptcy is a creation of federal law, so the process for filing for bankruptcy in Staunton, Virginia will be roughly the same as it would be anywhere else in the U.S. Chapter 7 bankruptcy requires the debtor to liquidate some of his or her property, and use the funds to pay creditors. While this doesn't sound like much of a relief at first glance, the upshot is that once the appropriate property is sold, and the proceeds directed to the creditors, all of the debtor's eligible debts are deemed paid in full, regardless of how much the creditors actually ended up getting. Not all of the debtor's property has to be sold off - the debtor will typically be allowed to keep things like a house, at least one car, some types of personal property, retirement accounts, and insurance policies. It should be noted that some debts are not dischargeable, and will have to be paid in full even if the debtor files for bankruptcy. This includes student loans, taxes, and criminal fines.

Under Chapter 13 bankruptcy in Staunton, most of the debtor's debt is not discharged. Instead, the bankruptcy court, working with the debtor and participating creditors, work out a payment plan that allows the debtor to pay off most of his or her debts over an extended period of time, therefore theoretically making the debt far more manageable. Once a payment plan is approved by the court, creditors are prohibited from attempting to collect payment under their original agreements that gave rise to the debt in the first place. 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 Staunton Bankruptcy Lawyer Help?

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

Talk to a Bankruptcy & Finances Law Attorney now!

Life in Staunton

The city of Staunton is located in Augusta County, Virginia. It is a relatively older community comprised of about 23,000 residents. It was incorporated in 1871. Staunton was first settled by merchants, and its economic beginnings can be traced to the fields of trade, industry, and transportation. The city is locally known for being the birthplace of former U.S. President Woodrow Wilson.

Currently Staunton is an ideal tourist destination, as it has five separate districts with many sights to see. The arts and culture contribute greatly to Staunton's atmosphere, as can be seen by the American Shakespeare Center. The Center is home to the only replica of Shakespeare's Blackfriars Theatre in existence. Strict building codes have preserved much of Staunton's unique early-American architecture. This makes it a popular location for film and T.V. settings.

Staunton residents can enjoy many of the city's outdoor festivals and parades, such as the 4th of July Celebration. Country music is a favorite for many locals, as the city has produced many top-notch artists. The city is a genuine reservoir of American culture and history. Besides President Woodrow Wilson, Staunton has been the hometown of several lawyers, senators, and legislators throughout history.

Staunton lawyers typically file their cases at the Staunton General District Court located in the city. Many lawyers in Staunton, Virginia frequently participate in the city's many community service and outreach programs.