Bankruptcy is a legal process allowing an individual or business to have some or all of their debt discharged. It is almost always considered as a last resort because it can have some negative long-term consequences which must be considered, even if you eventually decide that they are outweighed by the benefits. Bankruptcy is a formation of federal law, and goes through federal courts. Therefore, the process governing bankruptcy in Texas will be roughly the same as it is everywhere else in the U.S. But individual courts have different rules for what property is exempt, so you should consult a local Bellville, Texas before you file.

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy in Bellville, Texas

There are 2 common forms of bankruptcy in Bellville, Texas. They are known as Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 Bankruptcy. 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 usually includes homes, vehicles, insurance policies, and retirement accounts. These do not have to be sold.

Once all non-exempt assets are sold, and the money from the sales turned over to the creditors, most remaining debt is discharged. But some forms of debt cannot be discharged through Chapter 7 bankruptcy. These include child support payments, student loans, and criminal fines, among others. If most of your Bellville, Texas debts are not dischargeable, you may want to consider options other than bankruptcy.

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy in Bellville, Texas

Chapter 13 bankruptcy in Bellville, Texas is markedly different. It may or may not be a better option than Chapter 7, depending on the facts of your particular case. Chapter 13 Bankruptcy involves a court setting up a revised payment plan, which allows the debtor to pay off most or all of his debts over a longer 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 Bellville, Texas

Chapter 13 is usually a good option for people who have a stable income, and a large amount of non-exempt property that they can't part with. On the other hand, if most of the debtor's property is exempt, and he or she does not have a stable income, Chapter 7 might be more beneficial.

Whatever your situation, you should speak with a local Bellville, Texas bankruptcy Lawyer. Your Attorney will be able to advise you of your options and their likely consequences, which will help you make a more educated decision.