Law Offices of Khachik Akhkashian

The government has cracked down on bankruptcy law in the recent years. With the increase in filing for bankruptcy among those that were not in serious financial debt, they have made it more difficult for just anyone to file. In the past a person could file under Chapter 7 without having severe debt even though that was what it was intended for. A means test was established that prevents those with an income above the average population from being able to file.

For those that do have a steady income and a full time job, Chapter 13 is a profitable choice. Under Chapter 13 there are pros and cons in relation to Chapter 7. Chapter 13 is not the typical bankruptcy that many people know of. Through it, a person is typically allowed to keep many of their assets rather than having them liquidated. One of the main differences is that instead of using non-exempt assets as payment, they are instead awarded further time to pay debts, typically between three to five years. Chapter 13 is extremely useful for those that face the threat of foreclosure, that owe back taxes or are having trouble meeting their mortgage payments.

In a Chapter 13 filing, if a person is able to stick to their payment plan they will have their dischargeable debt released at the end of the period. For those that are looking to keep their home, car or other important assets, this option allows them to do that. Many would be able to pay their debts if they had enough time and when that is the case for you, speak to a Glendale bankruptcy attorney from The Law Offices of Khachik Akhkashian about filing for Chapter 13. They can discuss this among other debt relief options with you that can help you achieve financial stability. 

Two of the more common form of bankruptcy filings are done under Chapter 7 and Chapter 13. Any type of individual can find themselves in financial need. Some may have overspent, while others simply didn’t have enough income to begin with. For those that find themselves with more expenses than they can handle, there are a number of options that can be explored. One of the last options for many people is a bankruptcy filing. Common knowledge on the area of bankruptcy law is somewhat limited and many individuals may not come to learn the various components involved until they actual sit down and speak with a professional. Not all bankruptcy cases are the same and to fit that, not all bankruptcy options are the same. One person may be able to file under Chapter 7, while another can only use Chapter 13 as an option.

In recent years the government has taken out greater action in their effort to hinder just anyone from filing. Some may have tried to take advantage of the system and greater restriction seeks to make it so that only those that are in serious financial need can file. A Chapter 7 filing is the more commonly known of the two options. This is the liquidation bankruptcy where are persons assets are brought together and used to pay off the expenses they owe. In the end they may be awarded with financial freedom from their loans and a fresh start to try controlling their finances better the next time around. In order to be eligible for this, a means test must first be passed that proves a person has need to file.

Those that do not qualify for this may turn to the Chapter 13 filing. This is for individuals that typically have a steady source of income. They may have finances that allow them to pay towards debt; they just need some help in order to do that. Unlike Chapter 7, Chapter 13 does not discharge all debt but forms a plan and gives the debtor a specific number of years to pay them off. This prevents their assets from being liquidated and gives them the added assistance they need. Those that chose this route will not need to pass the means test and in the end they may not even have to pay the full amount that is owed. For some this can be a far better option than Chapter 7. While it doesn’t wipe out all their debts, it does protect them and prevents them from needing to start all over. If you are looking to file for bankruptcy, the legal guidance of a professional is a great advantage to any case. Contact a Glendale bankruptcy attorney from The Law Offices of Khachik Akhkashian for qualified assistance.