How to Know When it’s Time to File for Bankruptcy

Piling up debt seems like the norm our society today, and so it makes sense that more and more people will see filing for bankruptcy as the only alternative to getting out of debt in the coming years. While it isn’t something we want to happen anytime soon, there are some that see bankruptcy as their only option to escape debt. Your outstanding debts over the years may include credit cards, mortgage, car loan, hospital bills, doctor and dentist bills, car loans, student loans or personal loans. If these debts have become more than you can handle, filing for bankruptcy may be a viable financial option. If this sound like you, then don’t despair because there is help for you out there. If you’re considering filing for bankruptcy, it’s important to find an experienced bankruptcy lawyer in Delray Beach to work with because you want to make sure you file all of the papers properly or risk being turned down by a bankruptcy court. At the Law Office of John E. Mufson, our expert legal team is here to help you navigate through the bankruptcy process from start to finish. It can be overwhelming, but rest assured, we specialize in helping our clients find a wide range of solutions to paying back debt.  

Common Mistakes to Avoid if You’re Thinking of Filing for Bankruptcy 

Filing for bankruptcy isn’t an easy process and it requires more than just filing paperwork. You might not know that should not do this before filing for bankruptcy:  

  • Don’t incur any more debt. We know that sounds like a no brainer but you’d be surprised at how many people still continue to use their credit cards after they file the bankruptcy paperwork. You risk not being approved because the bankruptcy court may think that you aren’t serious and have no intention of paying your debts back. This would actually be considered fraud. 
  • Don’t lie about your assets or provide inaccurate information. This is the time to let it “all hang out,” so to speak. If you lie about any of your assets you could be subject to penalties that could equal thousands of dollars. This would include not so obvious things like assets in safe deposit boxes or storage units. Worse yet, lying about assets may cause a bankruptcy court to dismiss your case altogether.  
  • Don’t file for bankruptcy if you think you might come into some money (like a gift or an inheritance) within the first year of filing. It’s most likely that your bankruptcy case will be dismissed because you can use this money to clear up your debt on your own. 
  • Don’t wait too long to file for bankruptcy. It’s always best to file as quickly as possible so that you don’t incur any more debt and especially if a creditor has a lawsuit against you. A bankruptcy attorney in Delray Beach like The Law Office of John E. Mufson can help you make sense of it all and can advise on the ins and outs of bankruptcy law. 

If you’re thinking about filing for bankruptcy, it could not have been an easy decision for you. But when you work with our experienced legal team at the Law Offices of John E. Mufson in Delray Beach, you’ll get honest answers and the highest quality customized client care that you deserve. If you’re considering bankruptcy but our team determines that it’s not aligned with your financial needs and goals, we’ll be upfront and let you know. While you may be shocked to realize that bankruptcy isn’t in your best interests, you’ll also be glad that a bankruptcy lawyer in Delray Beach was upfront with you about your options for debt relief. If filing for bankruptcy is the plan best for you, our legal team will take the time to fully explain your options so that you’re truly confident in the decisions you’re making. Call us today at (561) 272-1003 for a free consultation. We are available to our clients both nights and weekends.