atanner's blog

Chapter 13 bankruptcy nationally a less commonly filed form of bankruptcy, and it isn’t what most people think about when they hear the word “bankruptcy.” Most folks think about Chapter 7 or straight bankruptcy when they hear the word bankruptcy. In Alabama, Chapter 13 bankruptcy is a more popular choice.

The Bond and Botes lawyers and staff do what we do to help others every day. Some of us go above and beyond. In February, the Madison County Volunteer Lawyers Program recognized our own Mary Conner Pool as their Volunteer Spotlight! We are proud of Kathryn for putting in the extra time to help those who are less fortunate. Kathryn has a real compassion for the less fortunate and is willing to step out of her comfort zone to help.

We often get asked what at face value seems like a relatively simple question: how many times can you file bankruptcy? There is no hard-and-fast rule limiting the number of times an individual can file for bankruptcy protection. However, there are limitations and practical considerations that effectively limit the number of times a person can benefit from consumer bankruptcy.

A few months ago I wrote about What Happens to Real Estate when you surrender it in a Bankruptcy. Now, I want to discuss what happens to personal property like vehicles, mobile homes, furniture, and other household items when you surrender them in a bankruptcy.

One of the most common concerns my clients have is whether or not filing a bankruptcy case will affect their job. The short answer is this; no, filing a case should not have any impact.

An important issue as it relates to a chapter 13 bankruptcy and mortgages was recently decided by the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals in Dukes V. Suncoast Credit Union (In Re Dukes.)

The issue, in its most simplistic form, is this:

Over the last 10 or so years, we have seen a decline in the real estate market. It does seem to be improving a bit of late, however, many people have come to us for help because their home or other real estate has little or no equity and has become too burdensome to maintain and afford, particularly those folks with adjustable rate notes!

Thomson Reuters Super Lawyers Magazine annually publishes a list of the top attorneys in Alabama. Super Lawyers rates outstanding attorneys from seventy or more practice areas based on peer recognition and professional achievement. The selection process is multi-phased and the lawyers are chosen by considering a combination of peer nominations, independent research, and peer examinations.

In 2014, Congress passed what is known as the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act.

Yes, in some circumstances, filing either a chapter 7 or chapter 13 bankruptcy will allow you to get your suspended driver’s license reinstated.