Bankruptcy is a court proceeding which lets a person or business have some or all of their debts excused. It should typically only be considered as an option of last resort, because it can have serious long-term consequences, even if it can stave off financial disaster. This means that the costs and benefits need to be carefully considered before filing. Bankruptcy is governed by federal law, and proceeds in federal courts. So, the procedure for filing for bankruptcy in North Carolina will be very similar to the procedure anywhere else in the U.S. However, individual bankruptcy courts have different rules for exemptions, so it might be a good idea to consult with a local Attorney in Hamlet, North Carolina before filing.

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy in Hamlet, North Carolina

There are 2 typical types of consumer bankruptcies in Hamlet, North Carolina: Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Chapter 7 liquidates some of the debtor's assets. It requires a certain percentage of the debtor's assets to be sold off to pay as much of his or her debt as possible. However, many types of property that most people own are exempt, meaning that they don't need to be sold. This often includes houses, vehicles, insurance policies, and necessary personal items, like clothing. These assets are not available to creditors.

Once eligible assets are sold, and the proceeds turned over to the creditors, most remaining debt is absolved. However, some types of debt cannot be discharged in bankruptcy, including student loans, taxes, child support, personal injury awards, and fines. If most of your debt in Hamlet, North Carolina is not dischargeable, you might want to consider other options besides bankruptcy.

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy in Hamlet, North Carolina

In Hamlet, North Carolina, 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 does not excuse debt, but restructures it instead. Typically, various debts are consolidated into a single monthly payment. This is designed to make the debt more manageable, giving the debtor the chance to pay off the debt over a longer period of time, without all of it coming due at once. This is typically manageable, as long as the debtor can make some sacrifices.

Which Type of Consumer Bankruptcy Should I File in Hamlet, North Carolina

Which Bankruptcy type to file under depends heavily on the facts of each distinct case. If you have a steady stream of income (enough to make a payment plan manageable), and a large amount of non-exempt property that you don't want to part with, Chapter 13 may be best for you. If you don't have a steady income or large amounts of non-exempt property, you may be better off filing for Chapter 7.

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