Bankruptcy Bias for Blacks
A recent NY Times article discusses a recent study of racial differences in bankruptcy filings that shows a bankruptcy bias for blacks:
The study of racial differences in bankruptcy filings was written by Robert M. Lawless, a bankruptcy expert and law professor, and Dov Cohen, a psychology professor, both with the University of Illinois; and Jean Braucher, a law professor at the University of Arizona.
A survey conducted as part of their research found that bankruptcy lawyers were much more likely to steer black debtors into a Chapter 13 than white filers even when they had identical financial situations. The lawyers, the survey found, were also more likely to view blacks as having “good values” when they expressed a preference for Chapter 13.
This is news to me! As a NY Bankruptcy Attorney this has not been my experience, but I did find the article interesting and look forward to reviewing the study. I can assure you that bankruptcy can be a very difficult area of law (even for attorneys). There are many factors that need to be considered when deciding which bankruptcy chapter is best for you. No one should be steered into any chapter of bankruptcy! Make sure your bankruptcy attorney is a member of NACBA (National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys). Also consult with several attorneys if possible (most offer a free consultation). We have no problem providing a free consultation to answer your general questions. We also have answers to frequently asked bankruptcy questions right here on this site.
New York Bankruptcy Attorneys
As always, the Law Firm of VAUGHN, WEBER & PRAKOPE, 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 attorney.
Familial Exception to Evictions
Familial Exception to Evictions
Although unfortunate, there are many situations where a person may wish to evict a family member from their property. It seems that a very common misconception exists. It seems that most people think that if the family member is over the age of 21, they can be evicted by simple summary proceedings. This is not the case at all. These special cases fall under what is known in New York as the Familial Exceptions to Evictions by Summary Proceedings. This familial exception to evictions applies to designated types of relationships which have developed over time through case law. If the type of relative that you are attempting to evict falls within these exceptions, the eviction process changes entirely. It is important to be aware of the familial exception to evictions before an action is commenced to avoid unnecessary delays and costs. As always, the best way to avoid these pitfalls is to consult with an attorney before proceeding.
Landlord Tenant Attorneys in Mineola
Please feel free to call the Law Firm of Vaughn, Weber & Prakope, PLLC at (516) 858-2620 to speak with a Landlord Tenant Attorney.
Marriage Equality Act (MEA)
Recently we have received several phone calls regarding the Marriage Equality Act. The Marriage Equality Act is the act which has changed the New York Domestic Relations Law to allow the parties to a marriage to be of the same sex.
This act also ensures that all benefits that are given to heterosexual married couples also be given to homosexual married couples; whether these benefits stem from legislation, common law, administrative or court rule, public policy or however else. This MEA has gone into effect as of July 24, 2011. In the Dickerson v. Thompson ruling, the Court points out the fact that The MEA also provides that valid out of state same sex marriages will be recognized and treated the same as valid in state marriages of any kind.
Long Island Divorce Attorneys
As always, if you have any questions regarding The Marriage Equality Act, please feel free to call the Law Firm of Vaughn, Weber & Prakope, PLLC at (516) 858-2620 to speak with a Family Lawyer!
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