What is the cost of hiring a bankruptcy attorney in San Diego?

The cost of filing bankruptcy in San Diego can vary depending on the type of bankruptcy you file. Chapter 7 bankruptcy can typically cost between $300 and $1,500 to file, while Chapter 13 bankruptcy can cost between $200 and $1,000. However, these costs may be lower or higher depending on the individual's case. It is important to consult with an experienced attorney who can help you understand your options and guide you through the process. Contact our law office for more information about the cost of filing bankruptcy in San Diego.

What is the difference between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy in San Diego?

The main difference between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy is that in a Chapter 7, the debtor's nonexempt assets are liquidated to pay creditors, while in a Chapter 13, the debtor's debts are restructured so that he or she can repay them over time. In a Chapter 7 bankruptcy, the debtor gets a 'clean slate' and is discharged from most of his or her debts. A Chapter 13 bankruptcy, on the other hand, allows the debtor to keep most of his or her property and to repay creditors over time.

Which type of bankruptcy can clear all my debts in San Diego?

Bankruptcy can clear all debt, but there are a few things you need to know about bankruptcy first. When you file for bankruptcy, the court orders a 'bankruptcy discharge.' This order eliminates most of your debts. However, not all debts are eliminated. Debts that cannot be discharged in bankruptcy include child support and alimony payments, some taxes, student loans, and court fines. In most cases, filing for bankruptcy can provide relief from creditor harassment and give you a fresh start financially. Speak with an experienced bankruptcy attorney to learn more about how filing for bankruptcy can help you get back on track financially.

What should I expect after filing for bankruptcy in San Diego?

When you file for bankruptcy in San Diego, California, the court will appoint a trustee to oversee your case. The trustee will review your financial situation and make recommendations to the court on how to best repay your creditors. Typically, this involves liquidating some of your assets and using the proceeds to pay off your debts. In most cases, filing for bankruptcy can provide relief from creditor harassment and give you a fresh start financially. Speak with an experienced bankruptcy attorney to learn more about how filing for bankruptcy can help you get back on track financially.

How can I find a reputable bankruptcy lawyer in San Diego?

A good bankruptcy attorney should be experienced, knowledgeable and established. All attorneys only deal with attorneys and attorneys also need to deal with courts and creditors, so it's best to look for bankruptcy attorneys with a good track record in dealing with these people. You should also look for bankruptcy attorneys with good reputations. You can find the good and the bad attorneys online by looking for their reviews and testimonials. You can also ask your friends and family members if they know any reputable bankruptcy attorneys.

What options do I have if I do not qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in San Diego?

If you are considering filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you will need to pass a means test before applying. The means test looks at your income and expenses to decide if you can repay enough of your unsecured debts to your creditors. If you can pay enough of your debt on your own without filing for bankruptcy, you will not qualify for a Chapter 7 bankruptcy. There are several different options available to you such as reviewing the means test for accuracy, delaying your filing, or considering Chapter 13 bankruptcy instead. It's advisable to consult with a bankruptcy lawyer to discuss your options further.

Building Post-Bankruptcy Credit: It May Be Easier Than You Think

Ahren Tiller

January 2nd, 2015

One of the biggest concerns that people who file bankruptcy in San Diego and nationally have is their credit. Specifically, how long will it take them to dig out of the credit hole that having a bankruptcy on a credit report will create?

First, it’s important to note that although a bankruptcy will negatively affect your credit, it is surely better than the alternative—paying minimum payments on cards while being in default for the next 20 years. With a bankruptcy, particularly a Chapter 7, you begin to build credit the day after your bankruptcy is over. Every day that goes by is another day farther from your bankruptcy and a day closer to better credit.

There are things you can do to help the process of improving credit along after bankruptcy. One is establishing new credit.

New Credit Offers After Bankruptcy

Many clients are surprised to learn how easy it is to get certain kinds of credit, sometimes immediately after bankruptcy. And while we don’t advocate digging yourself into a credit hole after you’ve gotten your Chapter 7 discharge, it is wise to start having some credit, and paying it off timely on a monthly basis to build your credit back up.

One way to do this is through credit cards, which will be offered to you after your discharge. Creditors know you’re a safe bet—you just discharged your debts, and can’t do so again for 8 years, and so you’re a great target for credit.

The offers you get may not be fantastic, or have the best terms. In many cases, you will be offered secured credit cards—cards that you may have to put a deposit down on, and then borrow against.

What to Look For With Credit Offers After Chapter 7 Bankruptcy

A recent article on Investopedia analyzed the best post-bankruptcy credit cards for bankruptcy debtors. You can read the article in full there, but some things to look for when getting secured cards include:

Fees – Is there a yearly membership fee? Or a monthly maintenance fee? Some can be as high as $75 per year, and $6 a month. Some have none at all.
Interest – Do not be too concerned over interest. You will only be putting a small amount on your new card, and paying it off immediately. The interest won’t kill you as much as building credit will help you. Some cards also offer grace periods, where they will asses no interest if you pay in a specified period of time.
Reporting – Make sure you get a card that reports timely payments to the major credit reporting agencies, otherwise you’re not doing yourself much good. The major providers usually do, but call to be sure before you take out the card.
Secured to unsecured – Some cards will let you change from secured to unsecured (and return your deposit) after a certain period of demonstrated timely repayments.

Bankruptcy is not the end of your credit. It’s more like the beginning. With proper post Chapter 7 discharge planning, and responsible use of credit, you may find yourself in the land of better credit sooner than you think after filing bankruptcy.

If you’re considering bankruptcy, you want lawyers that are with you even after your discharge is entered. Let experienced San Diego bankruptcy attorneys evaluate your case and discuss with you the best and safest path to good credit and a fresh start. Contact the Bankruptcy Law Center for a free consultation today.

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