Understanding Connecticut Chapter 7 Bankruptcy

We know that over ten thousand Connecticut families enjoy a better life and financial future as a result of the bankruptcy and debt relief work done by our educated attorneys and staff. The Law Offices of Neil Crane is the largest provider of Chapter 7 Bankruptcy relief in Connecticut.

Connecticut Bankruptcy Attorneys Helping You Stop Creditor Harassment and Get Debt Relief

Chapter 7 bankruptcy is the most affordable and comprehensive debt relief available under the Bankruptcy Code. It completely discharges almost all forms of unsecured debt – allowing people to permanently eliminate unsecured debts, such as:

  • Lawsuits, judgments and garnishments
  • Credit card debt
  • Medical bills
  • Old apartment rent payments
  • Many types of older tax debt
  • Personal unsecured loans (loans not secured by collateral)
  • Other debts

If you file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you may choose to eliminate certain secured debt as well, such as an automobile loan or a house mortgage.

Chapter 7 Income Guidelines: The first step in examining families for Chapter 7 relief is an analysis of household income from all sources over a trailing six month period. This income, doubled, becomes the determining household annual income for purposes of determining eligibility for “automatic” Chapter 7 relief with its full discharge of unsecured debt and no repayment. Family size is determined by the number of dependents listed on the prior year’s tax return or the true number of people in your household. In Connecticut, the numbers are approximately:

Family of 1 – apx. $60,000+ Family of 2 – apx.$78,000

Family of 3 – apx. $88,000+ Family of 4 – apx.$109,000

All additional individuals – $7,500 per person

For families who are over these median numbers, the new laws under the 2005 Bankruptcy Code require a Means Test.

MEANS TESTING UNDER CHAPTER 7 BANKRUPTCY

This is a somewhat complicated, in-depth analysis of your income and expenses over the past six months. It utilizes formulated amounts for “allowable deductions” for certain expenses and overriding “actual deductions” for certain types of monthly expenses, such as mortgage payments, car loans, support obligations and others.

At the Law Offices of Neil Crane, our highly experienced practitioners know how to use the fullest opportunities under the law to maximize our client’s utilization of both elements of the means testing examination, “household income” and “allowable expenses.” The rules are complex, extensive and critical. The new key to full Chapter 7 debt relief is excellent, dedicated lawyering and full implementation of all aspects of means testing rules and regulations. It takes work, but it’s worth it.

People who do not qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy may still qualify for Chapter 13 bankruptcy. At The Law Offices of Neil Crane, LLC, we can help make sure your decision will be the right one for you.

Chapter 7 Is Alive and Well After the New Bankruptcy Laws

After the new bankruptcy laws went into effect in 2005, we are pleased to report that – although there are far greater paperwork demands and stringent means testing rules – The Law Offices of Neil Crane, LLC, is still able to obtain Chapter 7 bankruptcy relief and our same excellent results in the vast majority of cases. In all events, Chapter 13 is available to all clients. The death of bankruptcy relief has, in fact, been exaggerated and over-publicized. With our experienced lawyering, most clients can still obtain the same debt relief that was available under the old law.

In the hands of skillful and experienced Connecticut Chapter 7 bankruptcy attorneys, clients can still get immediate protection and permanent debt relief. Now, more than ever, our experience and dedication is critical to your relief.

Talk With Us About the Benefits of Filing for Bankruptcy

There are many benefits to obtaining the full relief and debt forgiveness still available under Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Please do not hesitate to call us today at 203-230-2233 to discuss these benefits with an experienced attorney. You may also complete our online contact form.

Because your financial relief and peace of mind are our highest priority, we do not use voice mail. Every call placed during normal business hours is answered by a live person. If an attorney cannot speak with you immediately, your call will always be returned by an attorney promptly.