09.17.2015 | by Kenny Steinberg
We can handle the truth in bankruptcy
People often ask me why this phrase is heard so often when they watch law shows on TV or see movies focused on the law. They then ask me “What’s the difference between the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth? Aren’t they all the same?”
08.04.2015 | by Tom Rose
Conneaut Lake Park hearing set
The roller coaster ride is about to hit an end for Conneaut Lake Park.
05.19.2015 | by Kenny Steinberg
Most surprising thing about bankruptcy
I’ve been helping people with their financial issues for over three decades. So sometimes I take for granted what I think people may know about filing for bankruptcy. But it seems like
every day one of my potential clients says to me: “You mean I can keep that?” They seem surprised when I say “Yes.”
And I say that often. In fact, I say that almost always, no matter which type of bankruptcy might be the best solution, Chapter 7 or Chapter 13, even Chapter 11. So if you file for
bankruptcy, what are you allowed to keep?
Before I go there, a little background is necessary. Chapter 13 and Chapter 11 are reorganization-type bankruptcies that normally result in the client making payments on part or all
of their debt over a period of several years. Clients may have lots of things that they own, a house, cars, motorcycles, pension plans. And in almost all cases, our prepared Chapter 13 or Chapter 11 Court plan to pay back the creditors allows the clients to keep everything.
Chapter 7 is the type of bankruptcy where you eliminate unsecured debt without having to pay it. There are limits to the amount of property you can retain, but the limits, here in
Pennsylvania, are reasonable. It is possible that your situation may differ, and you may actually be allowed to keep more than I am about to write about, or (rarely) less, so it is always best to call
us at Steidl and Steinberg and speak with us directly about your circumstances.
So what can you keep in a Chapter 7? Start with equity in a home that you live in up to about $23,000 for each owner of the home, or $46,000 per couple. Equity is determined by
looking at the actual value of your home, that is, what someone would pay for it in today’s market, and subtracting the amount owed on the mortgages, home equity loans and lines of
credit, and any other liens that are against the house.
03.27.2015 | by Kenny Steinberg
You can keep a lot of stuff in bankruptcy
First, a caveat: this is directed to Pennsylvania residents. You may also be able to keep lots of stuff in other states, but check with your attorney first. Now let’s get to the good stuff.
10.02.2014 | by Kenny Steinberg
Do millennials need credit cards?
I just read a fascinating article in the recent New York Times “Your Money” section regarding millennials (ages 18 to 29) and credit cards.