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Michigan Bankruptcy Attorney Personalized & Skilled Representation

Bankruptcy Do's and Don'ts

Advice from a Michigan Bankruptcy Lawyer

If your finances are in trouble and you have started looking at ways to get out of debt, you have probably considered filing for bankruptcy. The bankruptcy process, whether you're filing under Chapter 7 or Chapter 13, involves many steps that a Michigan bankruptcy attorney can explain to ensure you have a thorough understanding of the process. There are also some things you should and shouldn't do before filing a bankruptcy petition to make sure that your petition is approved.

Here are some basic bankruptcy do's and don'ts:

  • Do not use a credit card to pay your taxes - If you pay your taxes with a credit card, you may not be able to discharge the debt at a later point in time. Even though paying your taxes with a credit card may solve an immediate problem, it can lead to future financial difficulties.
  • Do not use credit card cash advances to pay another card - The court may not approve the discharging of certain debts when you take money from one credit card to pay another.
  • Don't incur more debts if you are considering bankruptcy - Any debts incurred just prior to bankruptcy may not be discharged.
  • Don't transfer title to your home, car or other property to a family member or friend - When you file for bankruptcy, the court may consider these types of transfers a type of fraud and deny your petition.
  • Do file your taxes - Even if you are unable to pay the amount of taxes that you owe, filing your returns is extremely important. Tax information will be requested by the court if you decide to file for bankruptcy. Without this data, your debts may not be discharged.
  • Do provide accurate information on your bankruptcy petition - Falsifying data on your bankruptcy petition can get you in serious trouble and can result in your petition being denied.
  • Do contact a lawyer - A bankruptcy attorney can advise on the best way to proceed if you are considering filing for bankruptcy, and help you avoid mistakes that could result in the denial of your petition.

Legal Representation in Sterling Heights & Warren

My firm, Hensel Law Office, PLLC has over 12 years of experience representing clients in bankruptcy cases throughout Madison Heights, Royal Oak, Sterling Heights, Clinton Township, and Warren. As a Michigan bankruptcy lawyer, I will make sure that you are in compliance with state and federal bankruptcy statutes, and prevent any errors from being made that could jeopardize your petition.

Contact my firm for a free initial consultation to find out what to do and what not to do if you are considering bankruptcy.

Client Testimonials

  • You made a difficult experience so much easier.

    “Back a few years ago, you helped me through a bankruptcy. I still tell people how you made a difficult experience so much easier, with your clarity, support, and friendly approach to the law. I'm still very appreciative for all your help – it really helped to pull me out of a difficult place and put my life back on track.”

    Eric

  • We couldn't have gotten through this difficult process without Tom.

    “We couldn't have gotten through this difficult process without Tom. We evaluated a number of bankruptcy attorneys and found Tom to be the most knowledgeable and compassionate. He takes the time to explain all aspects of the process and answers your questions thoroughly and promptly both in person and via email. He knows the law and ensures that you receive the best treatment possible depending on your particular situation.”

    T & J

  • His knowledge and expertise made a very difficult time in our lives much easier.

    “From start to finish our experience with Mr. Hensel was great. He carefully and thoroughly explained the entire process to us and was always available for any questions or concerns we had. His knowledge and expertise made a very difficult time in our lives much easier. We are very thankful for his help in our situation.”

    Christine and John

  • Mr. Hensel walked me through every step.

    “I would highly recommend the Hensel Law Office!! Mr. Hensel walked me through every step, got my garnishments stopped very quickly (even got garnished wages returned to me!) and told me what to expect along the way. He answered all of my questions in a very timely manner- no matter what time I sent an email or gave him a phone call. Also, I felt his price was very reasonable compared to some of the other places that I called. Mr. Hensel answered plenty of questions that I had before I even became a client.”

    Carl

  • Professional, competent, empathetic attorney.

    “My husband and I were forced into a position to file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. We were devastated and mortified that we had to choose that route, but Tom eased our stress about the filing and court hearing process, as he thoroughly explained what Chapter 7 entails, as well as exactly what to expect during and after the filing process; he was accurate on each point that he advised us on. Tom also kept in frequent contact with us and responded quickly to any questions or concerns that we had while we worked with him. Tom's expertise and tact was invaluable for us, and we will absolutely recommend him to any of our friends and relatives that may find themselves in similar positions to ours. Thank you, Tom, for your dedicated help during this process.”

    EJO