A chapter 7 bankruptcy can also be referred to as liquidation; although with most cases there is little if any actual liquidation involved. Chapter 7 is referred to as liquidation because all of your non-exempt assets are converted to cash to help pay back the debt owed. It is best to speak with a skilled Texas bankruptcy lawyer if you are unsure whether Chapter 7 is the best option for you.
In general, chapter 7 best suits persons:
with income at or below the state median level
unable to adequately meet bills and living expenses each month
having little or no assets besides clothing and furniture
not declaring child support or alimony
without fines imposed for violating the law
without income tax debt
without student loans to repay
Under Chapter 7 an individual or business can ask the courts to erase the debts owed creating a fresh start. As soon as you file for bankruptcy you are immediately granted a stay preventing creditors from contacting you to collect, garnishing your wages, taking your home, vehicles or other property, and/or shutting off your utilities.
In order to decide whether Chapter 7 is really necessary for you as a debtor, you will need to take a Chapter 7 Means test. This test simply compares your income to the median income in your geographic area for your family size. This ensures you, as a debtor, are not trying to abuse the system. The majority of debtors will pass the means test. Contact a Texas bankruptcy lawyer right away to discuss your particular situation.
