Find a Bankruptcy Lawyer in Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Find the right Bankruptcy attorney in Sioux Falls, SD

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In Sioux Falls, South Dakota, bankruptcy is a judicial process in which the debts of a person or business can be excused or restructured. This allows the debtor to climb out of a financial hole, and move on with a clean slate, which is often more economically feasible than requiring the debtor to pay off everything they owe. Remember, though, that bankruptcy should not be viewed as a proper 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 possible benefits.

Therefore, it is advisable to consult with an experienced Sioux Falls, 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 Sioux Falls bankruptcy attorney cannot be replaced.

Types of Bankruptcy in Sioux Falls, South Dakota

In Sioux Falls, 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 Sioux Falls, South Dakota will be roughly the same as everywhere 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 funds to pay off debt. Varied 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.

The other typical bankruptcy scheme used by consumers in Sioux Falls is Chapter 13 bankruptcy. In this system, debt is not discharged. Instead, it is restructured. This allows the debtor to have the terms of the contracts that gave rise to their debts in the first place thrown out, and replaced with new terms that call for a structured repayment plan, designed to allow the debtor to survive on whatever income they have, and allowing the creditors to get paid back eventually. Once a payment plan is authorized, creditors are not allowed to attempt to collect payment under the original agreements. Though accessible to individuals, Chapter 11 bankruptcy is generally used by businesses. Like Chapter 13, Chapter 11 requires the restructuring of debts. Under this system, the debtor must come up with a plan to reduce debt, cut costs, and improve operations. Once this plan is presented, it is submitted to the participating creditors, who must approve it by a majority vote before it can be implemented.

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

How Can a Sioux Falls Bankruptcy Lawyer Help?

The decision to file for bankruptcy in Sioux Falls is not one to be made easily, and it definitely should not be made without first obtaining the advice of an accomplished Sioux Falls bankruptcy attorney.

Talk to a Bankruptcy & Finances Law Attorney now!

Life in Sioux Falls

With a population of about 153,000, Sioux Falls is the largest city in South Dakota. Over the recent decades, Sioux Falls, South Dakota has become one of the most important centers for retail trade, health care, and financial services in the area. Sioux Falls was chartered in 1856 and is home to many large corporations such as Citigroup and Wells Fargo.

In addition to being a vital economic hub for the region, Sioux Falls South Dakota boasts a number of attractions and local events. Every year the city hosts arts culture events like the "Festival of Bands", "Jazz Fest", and an unique "Sculpture Walk" cataloguing the history and progress of the city.

Sioux Falls is also home to Empire Mall, the largest one-story shopping mall in the U.S. With its unique mix of economic growth and its thriving arts culture scene, many residents and visitors appreciate the mix of opportunities that Sioux Falls offers.

Lawyers in Sioux Falls, South Dakota practice law in wide range of legal fields to serve community needs. Many Sioux Falls lawyers contribute to civic and social activities through organizations like the State Bar of South Dakota.