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.

Five Tips for Dealing With Harassing Creditors

Ahren Tiller

January 7th, 2020

No one likes to be harassed by creditors. Whether it is the call that interrupts your family’s mealtime, or the tone of the callers themselves, it often seems as if their tactics are specifically designed to be disrespectful and confrontational. Short of taking legal action to prohibit credit collection calls, consumers often feel helpless to do anything other than block unknown numbers or put up with the abuse. The following are rules and guidelines that credit collection agencies are required to follow, as well as some tips to help prepare you the next time you get this type of call.

Unfair Practices by Debt Collectors

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is the government agency established to prevent unfair practices and to make consumers aware of policies designed to protect their rights and interests. Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), credit companies and debt collection agencies are prohibited from practices designed to intimidate or mislead consumers. The following are just some of the unfair practices that are restricted:

Using abusive or obscene language;
Making threats to have you arrested;
Discussing your debts with anyone but you or your attorney;
Using symbols or language in mailed correspondence that indicate they are a debt collection agency;
Collecting charges in addition to debts that are prohibited by state laws;
Depositing any post-dated bank checks you supply early;
Falsely claiming to be an attorney;
Making repeated harassing calls.

Victims of debt collection agencies who engage in the above type of practices may be entitled to file a lawsuit seeking attorney’s fees and other types of compensation.

Five Tips for Dealing With Debt Collection Companies

In addition to being aware of the types of practices, credit collection companies are prohibited from engaging in, there are steps you can take to deal more effectively with their calls.

Get it in writing. Credit collections agencies are required to follow up with written statements within five days of a call.
Question amounts. If you feel the charges claimed are more than what you owe, file a dispute in writing with the collection agency.
Keep records. Make note of when and how often a collection agency calls, what was said, and the name of the caller.
Watch what you say. Avoid giving information on where you work, your income, and any other debt you have.
Negotiate. You may be able to negotiate a settlement on your debt for a reduced amount or one that eliminates interest charges.

Contact a Bankruptcy Attorney in San Diego Today

If you or someone you love is being harassed by a credit collection agency, contact a bankruptcy attorney today. At The Bankruptcy Law Center, we can help protect your rights when you are being harassed by creditors. Call or contact our office online to see how we can help you.

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