Find a Bankruptcy Lawyer in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Find the right Bankruptcy attorney in Philadelphia, PA

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In Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 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.

Therefore, it is a good idea to talk with an veteran bankruptcy lawyer in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. 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 Philadelphia bankruptcy attorney cannot be substituted.

Types of Bankruptcy in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

There are 3 bankruptcy tactics that are normally used in Philadelphia: Chapter 7, Chapter 13, and Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Bankruptcy is governed by federal law, so the procedures in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania are very similar to what they will be anywhere else in the United States. Chapter 7 bankruptcy requires the debtor to liquidate some of his or her property, and use the proceeds 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 given 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.

The other normally used bankruptcy system in Philadelphia 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. Though Chapter 11 bankruptcy can be used by individuals, it is almost exclusively used by businesses. Similar to Chapter 13, Chapter 11 involves restructuring of debts, rather than complete discharge. The debtor is required to come up with a restructuring plan that lays out how it plans to cut costs, streamline operations, and pay its debts. The plan must then be approved by a 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 Philadelphia Bankruptcy Lawyer Help?

Filing for bankruptcy in Philadelphia is a very important decision, and should not be made lightly. Before filing, one should consult with a good Philadelphia bankruptcy attorney for assistance.

Talk to a Bankruptcy & Finances Law Attorney now!

Life in Philadelphia

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is a place filled with history. Liberty Bell is a popular attraction where people go to take picture around the bell and enjoy its beautiful sound. Philadelphia is also home to the birthplace of the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution, therefore many people visit Independence Hall on a daily basis.

Other favorite attractions include the Philadelphia Zoo, Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Rittenhouse Square, Penn's Landing, which gives a marvelous view of the Delaware River. In many ways, Washington D.C. and Philadelphia have a lot in common because both places are metropolitan, fun, and filled with history! This is why many enjoy Philadelphia so much.

Alongside the history is the thriving legal industry. Philadelphia is filled with large firms that practice in many areas of law, as well as small boutique law firms that focus on a particular practice. This being so, no legal need will be unattended in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.