Bankruptcy is a state nobody wants to be drawn into, though it may sound easy option to take. Bankruptcy refers to the process which helps consumers and business enterprises to write off or repay some or all of their debts as stipulated in the laws of a country. In the case of bankruptcy, the creditor may voluntarily file a petition. This is what he/she will do after looking at all other options available. The person filing for bankruptcy will seek for an expert advice from either a lawyer or a finance consultant to discuss all the issues that pertain to bankruptcy before filing for the proceedings. The pros and cons must be understood by the debtor clearly.
Bankruptcy can prove to be costly and takes much time. Once a creditor files for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, there is usually an automatic stay. Chapter 13 type of bankruptcy secured debts cannot cause the debtor to sell his assets. A new arrangement of payment is made which can last for 3 to 5 years. Once this petition is filed, all previous activities of the creditor are halted. All issues regarding the debtor are handled by his lawyer who will be responsible for all queries directed to the debtor. Bankruptcy enables the debtor to make a fresh and new beginning financially.
Chapter 7 bankruptcy is suitable for debtors with no assets or very little property mostly unsecured debts. It is possible for a debtor to decide on which debts can be filed. Secured debts include home, car and other assets while unsecured debts in Chapter 7 bankruptcies are school loans. In Chapter 7 bankruptcy, the creditor will be required to pay or the creditor seizes and sells some of the debtor’s property if the payment is not made. A thorough evaluation of a debtor is required to enable him to decide wisely. Though bankruptcy smears the financial record of a debtor, the debtor cannot be discontinued form employment. This state of affairs may affect future employment of the debtor.
It would be wise for anybody or business to avoid bankruptcy if there is an option. Bankruptcy is not a situation that is palatable because it will rob one of his/her peace, and cause severe untold pain that will linger on for a period of time. On one hand, bankruptcy relieves the debtor the nagging burden of debt and gives him a new slate to start a fresh. For those creditors with a Chapter 7 bankruptcy, they have an option of choosing which debts to file and which ones to leave out. On the other hand, Chapter 7 bankruptcy may not offer a perfect way out since some unsecured debts do not qualify under this arrangement.
It is not be wise to give up after a stint in the circles of bankruptcy, but it should serve as a learning ground where the debtor should refocus and find out what went wrong and where. The debtor should be able to chart a way forward finding a solution for better debt management. He can still make good his financial record if he can continue to service his debts and credit cards. With proper counseling bankruptcy can be avoided.