Bankruptcy only if 500k in debt?

On January 17, 2012, in Bankruptcy, Debt settlement, by Robbie L. Vaughn, Esq.

Don’t file a Chapter 7 bankruptcy unless you have 500k in debt!

That’s pretty much what a radio show host recently said. We can’t see how this is good advice. There is no minimum amount of debt that one must have in order to file bankruptcy! Even more disturbing was the fact that the host appeared to be offering some sort of debt settlement guide or program they created.

First, Debt settlement can work, but you need money to settle! You have to be able to  make a lump sum or monthly payments.

Secondly, we have had clients with very little debt file bankruptcy. Many individuals file bankruptcy to prevent home foreclosure, head off an impending lawsuit, discharge a judgment obtained against them etc.

Finally, Bankruptcy is not for everyone. We suggest that you speak with an attorney about bankruptcy and debt settlement before making a final decision.

As always, the Law Firm of VAUGHN & WEBER, PLLC is here to assist you.  We are conveniently located in the heart of Nassau County, Long Island, at 393 Jericho Tpke., #208, in Mineola, NY.  Contact us at (516) 858-2620 to arrange a FREE consultation with a bankruptcy and debt settlement attorney.

What amount can you settle my debt for?

On May 16, 2011, in Debt settlement, by Robbie L. Vaughn, Esq.

Clients often ask: “What amount can you settle my debt for?”

Our answer is almost always: “It depends on several factors.”

These factors include:

  • the creditor
  • the type of debt
  • the age of the debt
  • how many times the debt has been transferred
  • the hardship claimed
  • how the settlement will be paid out

Secured debts (i.e. mortgages, car loans) are much harder to settle than unsecured debts (i.e. credit cards, medical bills). Some debts can be settled for as little as 10%. However, there are creditors that insist on having a much higher percentage of the debt paid back. The creditor starts high, we start low. We never know exactly where the negotiations will end. Creditors have their target settlement amount, and we have ours.

So, no one can guarantee you that they will settle your debts for a sum certain. Be wary of any company that guarantees they will save you a bunch of money. We have numerous clients who have paid at least double our fee to a debt settlement company before coming to us. Many of these companies failed to deliver any results at all, or produced dismal results at best. What’s even more shocking is that none of the individuals understood the agreements they signed. They had no idea where their money was going!

If you choose to hire someone to settle your debts, please choose wisely!

Vaughn & Weber, PLLC  proudly negotiates and settles debts for residents of Long Island, Nassau county, Suffolk county, New York City, Queens, Brooklyn, Bronx, Staten Island, and Manhattan.

Call (516) 858-2620 to arrange a FREE  consultation with a Debt Settlement attorney!

Power of Attorney for Debt Settlement

On May 12, 2011, in Debt settlement, by John A. Weber IV, ESQ.

We have recently encountered some issues during debt settlement negotiations with creditors.  It now seems to be  an increasing trend that creditors are requiring a power of attorney form, even from your attorney, to discuss the creditors accounts.  Generally, a letter of representation or an authorization form is sufficient.  Don’t be shocked however when they refuse to speak with  any person who has not been given an effective power of attorney.  Although it seems to be a little redundant to have an attorney given such powers (which the retainer has seemingly already given him), the hurdle is minor and is generally easier to comply with than to challenge.  If there are any questions or concerns regarding whether or not granting your attorney the power of attorney is a wise decision, then feel free to call us at (516) 858-2620!

We proudly assist residents of Long Island: Nassau county, Suffolk county, New York City: Queens, Brooklyn, Bronx, Staten Island, and Manhattan with their debt issues.

Call (516) 858-2620 to arrange a FREE  consultation with a Debt Settlement attorney!

The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for individual advice regarding your own situation. This website is Attorney Advertising. It does not form an attorney-client relationship. We are a debt relief agency and a law firm that helps people file for bankruptcy relief under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code – Title 11. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Proudly assisting residents of Long Island, Nassau county, Suffolk county, New York City, Queens, Brooklyn, Bronx, Staten Island, Manhattan