What are the most common causes of bankruptcy in Georgia?

At King & King we help people find a fresh start. Here are a few reasons people come to us for help. 

1. Medical Expenses

Studies indicate that this is the biggest cause of bankruptcy. Accidents and illness can easily result in enormous medical bills - bills that can quickly wipe out savings, retirement accounts, college education funds and even home equity. Bankruptcy may be an option even before these resources are exhausted.

2. Job Loss

Whether due to layoff or termination, the loss of income from a job can be devastating. Not having emergency savings to draw from only makes your situation more serious, using credit cards to pay bills can lead to deeper debt. If you are unable to find employment quickly it can be difficult to keep your creditors paid. Bankruptcy can put a stop to all collections.

3. Excess Use of Credit

Credit card bills, Car payments, mortgages, and other loan payments can spiral out of control. If you find yourself at the point where you can only make minimum monthly payments, bankruptcy may be the best option for you.

4. Divorce

Divorce can create tremendous financial strain on both partners. Legal fees, division of marital assets, decree of child support and/or alimony, these alone can be enough to cause some to file.

The good news is bankruptcy can give you a fresh start. The attorneys at King & King can put you back on track so you can stop worrying and move forward. Call us today at 404-524-6400 for a free consultation or visit us at www.kingandkingattorneys.com for more information. 

What Happens At Your Bankruptcy Hearing in Georgia?

When you file for bankruptcy in the state of Georgia, you, together with your attorney, are required to attend a meeting with the Bankruptcy Trustee. The Trustee is appointed by the court to review the bankruptcy, verify your identity, and make a report to the court as to whether you have any non-exempt property. For most of our clients, your property is exempt and you are allowed to keep all of your assets.

This meeting is called a Section 341 Meeting of Creditors. "Section 341" refers to the part of the Bankruptcy Code that requires this meeting, and it is called a "Meeting of Creditors" because it is an opportunity for creditors to attend and ask questions regarding your assets or debts. However, creditors rarely attend these hearings except in large business cases.

This meeting is informal and a judge is not present. You are required to bring your driver's license and proof of your social security number to your 341 meeting. Below is a list of some standard questions you might be asked:

What is your full name?

Did you review and sign the documents?

Are you familiar with the information contained in your filing documents?

Is the information true and correct?

Have there been any substantial changes since the filing?

Are all of your assets listed?

Are all of your debts listed?

Do you have a child support or spousal support obligation?

Have you read the bankruptcy information sheet (a handout King & King provides to you)?

Have you filed a bankruptcy previously?

Contact King & King today to schedule your free consultation.  With offices in downtown Atlanta, Cobb County, and Lawrenceville, we are able to easily accommodate our clients living anywhere throughout the Atlanta metro area.  Call King & King Bankruptcy at (404) 524-6400 or visit us at www.kingandkingattorneys.com for more information.