Offering the Bankruptcy Information You Need in Louisiana

Understand the Key to Your Financial Future with Legal Guidance

In the challenging landscape of financial turmoil, understanding the bankruptcy information you need in Louisiana is crucial for a secure future. Whether you’re facing overwhelming debt or contemplating bankruptcy as a strategic financial move, E. Orum Young Law, based in Monroe, LA, is your guiding beacon through these complex legal waters.

Short Summary:

• Bankruptcy is a legal fresh start for overwhelming debts, emphasizing the commitment to understanding Louisiana’s specific regulations.
• Differentiate between Chapter 7 (“liquidation”) and Chapter 13 (“reorganization”) while exploring Chapter 11 and Chapter 12 options for substantial debts.
• Determine the suitable bankruptcy type based on factors like income, assets, and debt nature, whether it’s swift resolution, structured repayment, flexibility, or tailored options for specific cases.
• There are eligibility criteria for Chapter 7 and Chapter 13, including the means test, disposable income, previous discharge, and financial counseling requirements.
• There are common exemptions for Chapter 7 (homestead, motor vehicle, wildcard, etc.) and Chapter 13 (equity in property, avoiding liens, cramdowns, etc.).
• Navigate key steps from assessment to debt discharge, ensuring a smooth resolution through your financial future.
• Bankruptcy lawyers are your advocates, guiding you to the appropriate chapter, handling filings, communicating with creditors, and safeguarding assets for a secure financial future.

For many, the idea of bankruptcy can be intimidating and overwhelming. The legal jargon, intricate processes, and the fear of the unknown can leave individuals feeling lost and unsure of their options. That’s where we step in, explaining the complexities and providing a clear roadmap to navigate the terrain of bankruptcy in Louisiana.

What is Bankruptcy?

Bankruptcy is a legal process that offers individuals and businesses a fresh start by addressing overwhelming debts. In Louisiana, specific regulations govern the bankruptcy process, and being well-versed in these regulations is crucial for a successful resolution.

While the specific procedures and consequences vary, the primary goal is to help debtors regain control of their finances.

Are There Different Types of Bankruptcy?

There are several types of bankruptcy, each designed to address specific financial situations. The two main types for individuals are Chapter 7 and Chapter 13.

• Chapter 7 Bankruptcy: Commonly referred to as “liquidation” bankruptcy, Chapter 7 entails the sale of non-exempt assets to settle outstanding debts. Typically resulting in the discharge of remaining eligible debts, this approach offers individuals a swift resolution and a fresh financial start, with the entire process often concluding within a few months.
• Chapter 13 Bankruptcy: Known as “reorganization” bankruptcy, Chapter 13 includes developing a tailored repayment plan spanning three to five years to settle all or a portion of debts. This approach enables individuals to retain their assets while actively progressing towards debt repayment. Suited for those with a consistent income seeking to catch up on missed payments, Chapter 13 provides a structured path to financial recovery.

For businesses and some individuals with substantial debts, Chapter 11 and Chapter 12 are also available:

• Chapter 11 Bankruptcy: Primarily utilized by businesses, Chapter 11 bankruptcy can also be employed by individuals grappling with substantial debts. This process offers crafting a comprehensive reorganization plan, allowing businesses and individuals alike to continue their operations while systematically repaying creditors.
• Chapter 12 Bankruptcy: Tailored specifically for family farmers and fishermen, Chapter 12 bankruptcy is a specialized option akin to Chapter 13. It is intricately designed to address the distinctive financial challenges those engaged in agricultural and fishing operations face.

Choosing the most suitable type of bankruptcy hinges on considerations such as income, assets, and the specific nature of the debts at hand.

Which Type of Bankruptcy Should I File?

Determining the appropriate type of bankruptcy to file depends on various factors unique to your financial situation.

Chapter 7

If you seek a relatively swift resolution and have non-exempt assets to liquidate, Chapter 7 might be suitable.

Chapter 13

On the other hand, if you have a regular income and prefer a structured repayment plan to catch up on missed payments while retaining your assets, Chapter 13 could be more fitting.

Chapter 11

For businesses or individuals with significant debts, Chapter 11 offers flexibility in creating a reorganization plan, albeit with added complexity.

Chapter 12

Family farmers and fishermen facing financial challenges in their operations might find Chapter 12, a specialized version of Chapter 13, better aligned with their needs.

How Do I Become Eligible for Bankruptcy?

The eligibility criteria for Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy differ and involve various factors. Here’s an overview of the essential eligibility criteria for each chapter:

Chapter 7

• Means Test: The means test compares your income to the median income in your state. If your income is below the median, you generally qualify for Chapter 7. If it’s above, further calculations are done to determine eligibility.
• Disposable Income: If you have enough disposable income to repay some of your debts, you might be required to file for Chapter 13 instead.
• Previous Bankruptcy Discharge: If you have received a Chapter 7 discharge within the past eight years, you may be ineligible for another Chapter 7 discharge. The waiting period is shorter if you’re transitioning from Chapter 13 to Chapter 7.
• Financial Counseling: You must undergo credit counseling from an approved agency within 180 days before filing for Chapter 7.

Chapter 13

• Steady Income: Chapter 13 is designed for individuals with a regular income. You must have a reliable source of income to fund the proposed repayment plan.
• Debt Limits: There are limits on the amount of secured and unsecured debt you can have in a Chapter 13 case.
• Completion of Credit Counseling: Like Chapter 7, you must complete credit counseling from an approved agency before filing for Chapter 13.
• Feasible Repayment Plan: Your proposed repayment plan must be feasible and meet certain criteria. It typically lasts three to five years and must cover priority debts and pay unsecured creditors at least as much as they would receive in a Chapter 7 case.
• Individual or Joint Filing: Chapter 13 is available for both individual and joint filers. If filing jointly, both spouses must meet the eligibility criteria.
• No Chapter 13 Discharge Within Certain Timeframes: If you previously received a Chapter 13 discharge, there are waiting periods before you can file for Chapter 13 again. The waiting periods are shorter if transitioning from Chapter 7 to Chapter 13.

Consulting with a bankruptcy attorney to assess your situation is critical, as the eligibility criteria can be complex, and changes in the law may happen yearly.

What are Certain Exemptions in Bankruptcy?

Bankruptcy exemptions are crucial for protecting certain assets from being liquidated to pay off debts. Exemptions vary by state and can impact both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Here are some common exemptions:

Chapter 7

• Homestead Exemption: Protects a certain amount of equity in your primary residence. The amount varies by state. In some states, you can use the federal homestead exemption instead.
• Motor Vehicle Exemption: Shields a certain amount of equity in your vehicle. The exemption amount varies by state.
• Wildcard Exemption: Allows you to exempt a specific dollar amount of any property you own. This can be particularly useful for protecting assets not covered by other specific exemptions.
• Household Goods and Furniture Exemption: Protects necessary household items, furniture, and appliances up to a certain value.
• Tools of the Trade Exemption: Safeguards tools, equipment, or other items necessary for your occupation or trade up to a certain value.
• Jewelry Exemption: Protects a certain amount of the value of your jewelry.
• Wages Exemption: Shields a portion of your earned but unpaid wages from being garnished.
• Pension and Retirement Account Exemptions: Certain retirement accounts, such as 401(k)s, IRAs, and pension plans, are often protected up to a certain amount.
• Public Benefits Exemption: Protects certain government benefits, such as social security, unemployment benefits, and public assistance.

Chapter 13

• Equity in Property: In Chapter 13, you can keep all your property, even non-exempt assets, as long as you pay the value of the non-exempt portion through your Chapter 13 repayment plan.
• Avoiding Liens: Chapter 13 allows you to “strip off” or remove junior liens on your home if the value of the property is less than the balance of the senior mortgage.
• Cramdowns on Certain Debts: You may be able to reduce the principal balance and interest rates on certain secured debts, making them more manageable.
• Extended Repayment Period for Certain Debts: Chapter 13 provides a longer repayment period for certain debts, allowing you to catch up on missed payments.
• Priority Debts: Chapter 13 ensures that certain debts, like tax debts and domestic support obligations, are paid in full throughout the repayment plan.

Exemptions can be complex, and the specific amounts and property types protected can vary by state.

What is the Bankruptcy Process?

The bankruptcy process typically involves several key steps:

• Assessment and Decision: Evaluate your financial situation to determine if bankruptcy is the right option and decide on the most suitable type based on your circumstances.
• Credit Counseling: Undergo credit counseling from a government-approved agency within 180 days before filing.
• Filing the Petition: Prepare and file the bankruptcy petition (including detailed financial information) with the bankruptcy court.
• Automatic Stay: Upon filing, an automatic stay goes into effect, halting most collection activities and legal proceedings by creditors.
• Appointment of Trustee: A bankruptcy trustee is appointed to oversee your case, review the petition, and manage the distribution of assets in Chapter 7 cases.
• Meeting of Creditors: Attend a meeting with the bankruptcy trustee and creditors to discuss your financial situation; this is more routine in Chapter 7 cases.
• Repayment Plan (Chapter 13): If filing Chapter 13, work with your attorney to create a feasible repayment plan, typically spanning three to five years.
• Asset Liquidation (Chapter 7): In Chapter 7, non-exempt assets may be liquidated to repay creditors, while exempt assets are protected.
• Debt Discharge: Upon completing the requirements, receive a discharge, legally releasing you from the obligation to repay most debts.
• Financial Management Course: Complete a financial management course, mandatory for both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 filers, before receiving a discharge.

Navigating the bankruptcy process can be complex, and seeking the guidance of experienced attorneys is crucial to ensure a smooth and successful resolution tailored to your specific circumstances.

How Can a Bankruptcy Lawyer Help Me?

A bankruptcy lawyer is your advocate and professional navigator through the intricate legal landscape. They assess your financial situation, advise on the most suitable bankruptcy chapter, and meticulously handle the filing process.

By representing your interests, a skilled attorney communicates with creditors, ensures compliance with court requirements, and, in Chapter 13 cases, collaborates on creating a feasible repayment plan. For Chapter 7, the attorney works to safeguard exempt assets.

Work With Our Bankruptcy Attorneys Today!

If you find yourself seeking bankruptcy information you need in Louisiana, E. Orum Young Law stands as a beacon of knowledge and support. Our team of experienced attorneys is dedicated to demystifying the complexities of bankruptcy, ensuring that you emerge from the process with a secure financial future.

Don’t face the challenges of bankruptcy alone in Monroe, LA—E. Orum Young Law will be your guide to a fresh start. Call our bankruptcy attorneys today and get a free case review!