Personal Bankruptcy For Dummies^®

by James P. Caher (Eugene, Oregon); John M. Caher (New York Law Journal, Albany, New York)

• ISBN13: 9780764554988
• ISBN10: 0764554980
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2003-01-01
• Publisher: For Dummies

Summary

The number of new personal bankruptcies filed each year continue to increase. And there is no relief in sight. Bankruptcy is never a painless or easy decision, but with a little know-how, you can get through this process with a minimum of headache, heartache, and indigestion. With a clear focus towards the future, you can then begin to get your finances_and your life_back in order.If you're considering bankruptcy, are currently in the process of filing for bankruptcy, or on the brink of bankruptcy and looking for a way to get through debt, Personal Bankruptcy For Dummies can help you make the best decisions about your financial future.Personal Bankruptcy For Dummies is a nuts-and-bolts toolbox, which covers both Chap7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Written by two seasoned experts on bankruptcy law, this easy-to-follow guide walks you through the bankruptcy process and explains how to rebuild your credit after filing for bankruptcy. Straightforward answers and re liable advice can help you sort out all of your possibilities, with a clear understanding of what you have to gain and what's to lose. This carefully written guidebook will show you how to:Consider alternatives to bankruptcyDecide which type of bankruptcy is right for youPrevent further financial damage before filing for bankruptcyDefend yourself from bill collectors and the IRSSave your home and other important assetsWipe out credit card debtUse bankruptcy to deal with tax debtsRepair your credit and stay out of financial troubleFilled with expert tips and tactics for navigating the world of bankruptcy, Personal Bankruptcy For Dummies gives you the ammunition and information you need to intelligently and confidently choose your own best path and get back on your feet again.

Author Biography

James P. Caher is a practicing bankruptcy attorney with 25 years of experience John M. Caher is a legal journalist whose reportage has won more than two dozen awards

Table of Contents

Introduction.

Part I: Bankruptcy: The Big Picture.

Chapter 1: Considering Bankruptcy.

Chapter 2: Stopping the Bleeding.

Chapter 3: Meeting the Players.

Chapter 4: Deciding Which Type of Bankruptcy Is Best for You.

Chapter 5: Getting from Here to There: The Bankruptcy Process.

Part II: Avoiding Bankruptcy.

Chapter 6: Considering Alternatives to Bankruptcy.

Chapter 7: Handling Bill Collectors.

Chapter 8: Negotiating with the IRS.

Part III: Keeping Your Stuff.

Chapter 9: Understanding Which Assets Are Off-limits to Creditors.

Chapter 10: Dealing with Secured Debts.

Chapter 11: Saving Your Home.

Part IV: Getting Rid of (Most of) Your Debt.

Chapter 12: Lingering Obligations.

Chapter 13: A House of Cards: Wiping Out Credit-Card Debts.

Chapter 14: Give unto Caesar: Using Bankruptcy to Deal with Tax Debts.

Chapter 15: The Devil Made Me Do It: Fines, Fraud, and Other Foibles.

Chapter 16: Till Debt Due Us Part: Bankruptcy and Divorce.

Chapter 17: Student Loans and Other Mind Games.

Part V: Strategies for a Successful Bankruptcy.

Chapter 18: Avoiding Troubles with Your Trustee.

Chapter 19: Living on the Edge in Chapter 13 Bankruptcy.

Part VI: Enjoying Your Fresh Start.

Chapter 20: Repairing Your Credit.

Chapter 21: Staying Out of Financial Trouble.

Part VII: The Part of Tens.

Chapter 22: Ten Common Bankruptcy Mistakes.

Chapter 23: Ten Things You Can Do Right Now to Ease Your Financial Woes.

Chapter 24: Ten Common Questions about Bankruptcy.

Appendix A: Glossary.

Appendix B: Exemption Laws.

Index.