The sheriff just served me with a lawsuit. What happens next?

Many potential clients schedule initial consultations after receiving a summons delivered by the sheriff’s office.  As an Asheville bankruptcy lawyer, I know that the uncertainty surrounding a formal legal action is unwelcome and stressful.  Although a collection lawsuit can be intimidating, many clients can protect their assets and defeat the action by taking the appropriate…

I got sued for a credit card. Can the creditor seize money from my bank account?

No, you must first be served with a Notice of Right to Claim Exemptions in North Carolina before any property is taken from you to satisfy a money judgment on a general, unsecured debt. Further, supplemental proceedings (court hearings) are required under NCGS 1-352 before a consumer’s bank account can be drained by a judgment…

My family member co-signed for a private student loan. Can bankruptcy help?

In my Asheville bankruptcy law office, I have seen many consumers, young and old, approach me about problems associated with their private student loans. Most folks already recognize that discharging those loans in a bankruptcy case can be problematic. Still, for consumers operating on a limited budget, the only payback options on their private student…

The bankruptcy bargain: honesty in exchange for a second chance.

During initial bankruptcy consultations, I make a point to discuss the theory of bankruptcy with potential clients so they understand what relief they are getting and at what price. The bankruptcy court provides debt relief, asset protection and a second chance at financial success in exchange for completely and honestly disclosing details of your financial…

Why do consumers file for bankruptcy?

Over the years, I’ve seen patterns in the types of financial problems consumers in Western North Carolina are facing.  As an Asheville bankruptcy attorney, I help people with a wide variety of financial issues.    Here is a partial list of the most common reasons why many of my present and former clients have considered a…

I’m getting collection calls but can’t pay. What should I do?

As an Asheville bankruptcy lawyer, I speak everyday with consumers struggling to pay monthly bills. They want to fix things, not only to improve their credit scores, but also to stop the incessant telephone calls from creditors and debt buyers. Its very stressful trying to figure out who to pay, how much to pay, and…

I want to improve my credit score. Should I settle my old debts?

As an Asheville bankruptcy attorney, I speak with potential clients about their financial problems, solutions to those problems, and the best path forward for their family. Many potential clients are rightfully concerned about their credit scores. A bad credit score means paying more for cars, houses, and can count against someone on job applications. Almost…