Consumer Bankruptcy Lawyers in Orange, California

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Bankruptcy is a legal procedure that allows an individual or business to have some or all of their debts discharged. It is typically considered as an option of last resort, because while it can stave off financial disaster, it has some substantial long-term consequences warranting careful consideration of the costs and benefits. Bankruptcy is a creation of federal law, and goes through federal courts. Therefore, the procedure governing bankruptcy in California will be roughly the same as it is anywhere else in the U.S. But individual courts have different rules for what property is exempt, so you should consult a local Orange, California before you file.

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy in Orange, California

In Orange, California, there are 2 typical forms of commonly-used consumer bankruptcy: Chapter 7 and Chapter 13. Chapter 7 bankruptcy involves liquidation of some of the debtor's assets. It requires some percentage of the debtor's property to be sold in order to pay off as much of his or her debt as possible. However, the majority of property that most people own is exempt. This typically includes homes, vehicles, insurance policies, and retirement accounts. These do not need to be sold.

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

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy in Orange, California

Chapter 13 bankruptcy in Orange, California is markedly different. It may or may not be a better option than Chapter 7, depending on the facts of your specific case. Chapter 13 does not absolve any debt, but it creates a new payment plan that should give the debtor some breathing room. Usually, all of the debts are consolidated into 1 periodic payment. While this might make it take longer to pay off the debt, if the debtor is willing to make a few sacrifices, the plan should be manageable.

Which Type of Consumer Bankruptcy Should I File in Orange, California

Chapter 13 is typically a good option for people who have a steady income, and a large amount of non-exempt property that they can't part with. On the other hand, if most of the debtor's property is exempt, and he or she does not have a steady income, Chapter 7 might be more beneficial.

Whatever your situation, you should speak with a local Orange, California bankruptcy Attorney. Your Lawyer will be able to advise you of your options and their likely results, which will help you make a more educated decision.

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Life in Orange

The city of Orange, California has a population of about 137,000 and is located about 3 miles from Santa Ana, the seat of Orange County. It has recently become a popular choice of residence for commuters who are employed in Los Angeles. Orange, California is well-known for its cozy, "old-town" feel that it maintains.

Part of Orange's charm is due to the large number of old and historic homes that have been preserved by the city. Many homes in Orange's "Old Town District" were built before 1920. Orange Historic District also contains original structures built around the time of the city's incorporation in the late 1800's. Orange, California has the second largest concentration of historic buildings in the nation.

In addition to its old-town feel, Orange has welcomed a number of modern institutions and retail centers. Of notable interest is "The Block at Orange", which is an outdoor entertainment and shopping locale. It features several upscale restaurants and is a popular shopping destination.

Lawyers in Orange, California provide assistance in a wide range of general legal fields. Many Orange, California lawyers have unique skills in specialized areas of law. Most attorneys in Orange file their claims at the Superior Court of California, County of Orange.