Michigan Bankruptcy Attorney - Common Mistakes
DON'T run up your credit cards or take out cash advances.
Many consumers think that because their debts are going to be discharged, it does not matter how much they charge today. Big mistake! Certain debts obtained inside 90 days before filing for Bankruptcy are presumed to be non-dischargeable. That means that if you use your credit cards recklessly before Bankruptcy, you may find yourself obliged to pay off those charges.
DON'T transfer property out of your name.
A lot people believe they may protect material possession like homes, cars, jewelry and cash by giving it to a family member before filing Bankruptcy. A Bankruptcy trustee may be able to reverse a transfer of property if it was made in an effort to conceal assets from your creditors. It's often uncalled-for, anyway, because exemptions may protect material possession like your house, your car and your wedding rings..
Most retirement funds in qualified ERISA accounts are secure, and you could be able to discharge your debts and keep your retirement account. Don't liquidate in an attempt to reduce assets or gut your retirement account in a futile attempt to catch up bills that you can't get under control.
DON'T ignore pending lawsuits.
Many debtors assume that if they're planning to file Bankruptcy, it's not important to respond to or appear in court for pending lawsuits. Until your Bankruptcy case is filed, any pending legal action will continue to move forward, and it's important that you protect your rights--and protect your property from liens--until a stay from the Bankruptcy court takes over.
DON'T pay back loans to friends and family while neglecting your other creditors.
In Bankruptcy, you can't choose to treat one creditor better than another. All creditors are entitled to a proportionate share of whatever funds are available to pay your debts. In fact, if you've made payments to a family member within a year before filing Bankruptcy, the Bankruptcy trustee may be able to take action to recover that money from your family member and distribute it proportionately among all of your creditors.
DON'T withhold information from your lawyer.
Often, clients think they have good reasons for concealing information from their attorneys. You may think that your lawyer won't understand your situation, or that by keeping quiet about an asset or an account, you'll be able to keep more. Lack of information will tie your attorney's hands and create serious risks. You could lose assets, have your Bankruptcy case dismissed, or even face criminal charges. And, your attorney may withdraw from your case if you're dishonest with them. Only with complete information can your attorney effectively protect your interests.
Our team of attorneys is available to assist you 24 hours a day, seven days a week and every day of the year. If you are in need of immediate legal assistance, call
1-517-886-1000
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