Find a Bankruptcy Lawyer in Rapid City, South Dakota

Find the right Bankruptcy attorney in Rapid City, SD

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In Rapid City, South Dakota, bankruptcy is a judicial process in which the debts of a person or business can be eliminated 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 efficient than requiring the debtor to pay off everything they owe. Remember, though, that bankruptcy should not be viewed as a convenient way to get out of debt that you don't feel like paying back. It is meant to serve as an option of last resort for people and businesses faced with debt that they will probably never be able to pay back. The decision to file for bankruptcy can result in negative consequences, such as damaged credit ratings, which must be seriously weighed against the potential benefits.

Therefore, it is prudent to consult with an experienced Rapid City, South Dakota bankruptcy attorney, who can advise you of the costs and benefits of bankruptcy. Because the decision to file for bankruptcy depends very heavily on the facts of each individual case, the advice of a Rapid City bankruptcy attorney cannot be substituted.

Types of Bankruptcy in Rapid City, South Dakota

In Rapid City, South Dakota, 3 types of bankruptcy procedures are in common use: Chapter 7, Chapter 11, and Chapter 13. Being governed by federal law, the procedures involved in filing for bankruptcy in Rapid City, South Dakota will be about the same as anywhere else in America. Chapter 7 bankruptcy involves liquidation of many of the debtor's assets in order to pay off as much of the debt as possible. This sounds harsh, but there is an upside: once the liquidation is complete, the debts are legally viewed as having been paid in full, whether or not the full amount was covered by the liquidation. Liquidation involves selling some personal property, and using the proceeds to pay off debt. Many types of property are exempt from liqudiation, and therefore may not need to be sold. They include homes, cars, and insurance policies, among others. You should know that some types of debt cannot be discharged in Chapter 7 bankruptcy, including taxes, student loans, and child support.

Under Chapter 13 bankruptcy in Rapid City, 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 a longer period of time, thereby 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. Chapter 11 bankruptcy is almost exclusively used by businesses, but there is nothing that legally prevents it from being used by individuals, and its use by individuals is very rare. Chapter 11 bankruptcy requires the debtor to come up with a restructuring plan - telling the court how they propose to cut costs, improve their operations, and pay down their debts. The plan has to be approved by a majority vote of participating creditors.

A main advantage of Chapter 11 bankruptcy is that businesses can continue their operations while going through the process. Also, they can continue to buy and sell their stock.

How Can a Rapid City Bankruptcy Lawyer Help?

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

Talk to a Bankruptcy & Finances Law Attorney now!

Life in Rapid City

Rapid City is located in South Dakota. In fact, it is the second largest city in the state. Just as it has an exciting name, the city also has many attractions for visitors to see! These attractions include Bear Country, the Journey Museum, the Dahl Arts Center, Mt. Rushmore Black Hills Gold Factory Tours, Reptile Gardens, Watiki Indoor Waterpark, Mammoth Site and the Devils Tower National Monument.

Rapid City is amongst the Black Hills. Interestingly, it is home to the longest caves in the world. It also has one of the lowest unemployment rates in the U.S.!

With so much going on in one place, it is natural that the legal force would also have a presence. To support local businesses and residents, Rapid City is home to many experienced attorneys. These attorneys are able to advise clients in all areas of laws and are easily able to handle legal matters.

Overall, Rapid City is a must-see place to visit.