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Taking on an adult family member’s debts as your own can be a huge risk. Perhaps the person who needs help is an aging parent or an adult child who can’t hold down a job and for whom you continue to feel responsibility (the latter situation is particularly common, in our experience). It is understandable… Continue reading Helping Grown Family Members

How does bankruptcy affect co-signers? If you’re in financial difficulty and you’re struggling to repay co-signed debts, you may need to consider this question. In Alabama, as in other states, the implications of bankruptcy for co-signers can be significant, though the specific consequences vary widely depending on individual circumstances. This blog post will delve deeper… Continue reading How Does Bankruptcy Affect Co-Signers?

Filing for bankruptcy the first time feels like hitting a giant reset button on your finances. It’s a relief, a chance to breathe again without the weight of debt on your shoulders. But what happens when life throws more curveballs your way? You may be wondering, is filing for bankruptcy a second time going to… Continue reading Is Filing Bankruptcy a Second Time Harder?

Falling behind on mortgage payments and dealing with the threat of foreclosure can be a frightening experience. If you’re struggling to keep your mortgage payments up to date, it’s important to know that you have options to protect your home and regain financial stability. Chapter 13 bankruptcy is among the most effective of these options.… Continue reading Behind on Mortgage Payments in Alabama? Chapter 13 Can Help

If you’re considering filing for bankruptcy and you’re wondering about how to manage the legal requirements involved, you essentially have three options: Prepare the case on your own and represent yourself “pro se.” Use a bankruptcy petition preparer. (This will also require you to represent yourself “pro se.”) Use an attorney located in your district.… Continue reading Why Should I Use an Attorney in My District?

There are many factors that can lead to bankruptcy, some that are beyond the debtor’s control. This post discusses some of the sources of financial distress that most often affect clients who come to us for help with their bankruptcy filings. Business Difficulties According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), around 45%… Continue reading Causes of Bankruptcy

Bankruptcy can be a great way to get a fresh start if you are buried in consumer debt. However, it’s not the only solution; often, an alternative approach will provide an easier path back to financial independence. If you are struggling with debt, the experienced attorneys at Grainger, Hawley & Shinbaum, LLC can advise you… Continue reading Alternatives to Bankruptcy in Alabama

Chapter 13 bankruptcy is an option for individuals facing significant financial hardship. However, there are a number of rules involved. One of the primary rules is making your agreed-upon payments on time. You may be wondering; how do I make my payments in a Chapter 13 payment plan? You must go through several steps to… Continue reading How Do I Make My Payments in a Chapter 13 Payment Plan?

Loss of Income and Unemployment Protection in Alabama Losing your job can have a severe impact on your finances and your ability to pay the bills you incurred when you thought your job was secure. Loss of income coupled with large quantities of debt is one reason people wind up needing to file for bankruptcy.… Continue reading Unemployment and Reduced Income

Legal Representation for Alabama Residents Reorganizing Their Finances The bankruptcy attorneys at Grainger Hawley & Shinbaum, LLC can help individuals throughout Alabama protect their interests during financial reorganization. Working with a bankruptcy trustee can help you make sure you receive the greatest possible discharge of your consumer debts. Most states are part of the U.S.… Continue reading The Role of the Bankruptcy Trustee