Consumer Bankruptcy Lawyers in West Haven, Connecticut

Find the right Consumer Bankruptcy attorney in West Haven, CT

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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. Being a product of federal law, bankruptcy will go through federal courts. Accordingly, the procedure for filing for bankruptcy in Connecticut is basically the same as the procedure anywhere else in the United States. However, individual courts in West Haven, Connecticut will have distinct rules for exemptions, so you should speak with a local attorney before filing.

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy in West Haven, Connecticut

There are 2 typical forms of consumer bankruptcy in West Haven, Connecticut: Chapter 7 and 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 West Haven, Connecticut. 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 West Haven, Connecticut

Chapter 13 bankruptcy in West Haven, Connecticut 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 Bankruptcy involves a court setting up an adjusted payment plan, which allows the debtor to pay off most or all of his debts over an extended 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 West Haven, Connecticut

Whether Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 is the right choice for you depends heavily on your distinct situation. If you have a steady income stream, and a lot of non-exempt property, Chapter 13 might be right for you. If you don't have a steady income, and most of your property is exempt, Chapter 7 might be a better way to go.

Whatever your situation, you should speak with a local West Haven, Connecticut 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 West Haven

West Haven is known as "Connecticut's Youngest City", as it only recently incorporated 1961. Ironically, it is one of the oldest settlements in the nation dating back to the 1600's. The city is located in New Haven County and has a population of about 53,000. It was originally founded as a shipping and industrial center focusing on rubber production and buckle shops.

West Haven is home to several nationally-acclaimed schools such as the University of New Haven and Notre Dame High School. The city is also full of sites that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places such as the American Mills Web Shop and Old West Haven High School.

One of the main attractions in West Haven is the Savin Rock area. Savin Rock was originally home to a seaside resort and an amusement park for several decades. It has now been converted into a walk and beach path. These days the area hosts the annual Savin Rock Festival held every summer. The festival is a four-day event featuring music, food, and different musical bands every night.

Lawyers in West Haven, Connecticut spend a lot of their time in the New Haven County Superior Court, which hears a variety of different legal claims. Many West Haven lawyers are members of outstanding civic and professional organizations like the New Haven County Bar Association.