Sonoma County Bankruptcy

Brian Barboza Sonoma County Bankruptcy AttorneyThe decision to file a Sonoma County bankruptcy is a very important decision for an individual or business entity.  When people become distressed financially due to overwhelming debts such as credit cards, medical bills, student loans, taxes, auto repossessions, underwater mortgages, and foreclosures, the stress affects every aspect of their lives.  Often times this stress results in poor and rash decisions, such as liquidating retirement accounts to pay debts, which is unfortunate because retirement accounts generally are protected in a bankruptcy.  It is extremely important that a person faced with these financial challenges seeks the advice of a qualified bankruptcy attorney to determine if filing Chapter 7, Chapter 13, or Chapter 11 is a viable option and whether there are any non-bankruptcy options as well.

Many of my clients have experienced firsthand the aggressive collection tactics implemented by creditors, such as lawsuits, wage garnishments, bank levies, and liens.  However, when an individual files for bankruptcy relief these collection activities stop immediately.  Often times this automatic stay offers people immediate relief and peace of mind.  In addition, a thorough pre-bankruptcy analysis will result in a smooth and streamlined bankruptcy case.  Moreover, it is important for the debtor to know the differences between Chapter 7, Chapter 13, and Chapter 11 so they can make an informed decision as to what type of bankruptcy case will benefit them the most. 

Due to the economic downturn and the diminished value in real estate many people have been forced to file Chapter 13 bankruptcy.  In Chapter 13 people, in certain circumstances, have been able to remove their second mortgages from the home, reduce car loan balances to the fair market value of the vehicle,  and deal with tax debt over a fixed period of time, all the while preventing the collection efforts of the creditors including the IRS.

In the alternative, many people choose to file chapter 7 bankruptcy in order to discharge their debts and obtain a fresh start.  A chapter 7 generally lasts 90 days and does not involve any type of payment plan.  However, because it is a liquidation bankruptcy and assets can be sold by a trustee in chapter 7, it is imperative that an individual seeks the counsel of an experienced bankruptcy attorney to determine what assets are or are not exempt (protected) from a chapter 7 trustee liquidation. 

At the Law Offices of Brian A. Barboza we have filed hundreds of bankruptcy cases and helped many people obtain the fresh start they deserved.  There is nothing more rewarding than to see the financial stress lift once the case is filed and the creditor harassment stops.  Additionally, my staff are well trained and they care about each person we help throughout the entire bankruptcy process.  Our goal is to treat every client as though they are our first client.

The Law Offices of Brian A Barboza, A DEBT RELIEF AGENCY, offers a FREE ONE HOUR BANKRUPTCY CONSULATION.