Bankruptcy May Be The Answer You Seek

At BDJ Express Law, we understand the challenges you are facing, and we also know that the stress associated with debt can impact your whole family – including your children. Let us be your trusted resource to help you resolve your concerns and get your life back on track. Though your financial situation may look messy, don’t despair. We have the knowledge and skill to help you turn things around. Brian D. Johnson is a recognized expert on bankruptcy law.

If you work with us you can:

• Understand ALL your options, including ones that don’t involve bankruptcy.
• Get help with Chapter 7, Chapter 13 and Chapter 11/business bankruptcy.
• Potentially stop home foreclosure or car repossession.
• Potentially erase thousands of dollars of debt.
• Put an immediate stop to creditor harassment and wage garnishment.
• Meet with us virtually from the comfort of your home.
• Take advantage of affordable payment plans.
• Enjoy an absolutely free, confidential consultation.

Let Us Address Your Questions

Many people don’t file for bankruptcy even though they should. Often the misleading or false information they’ve received from friends, family or the media prevents them from seeking an attorney who can aid them in understanding how bankruptcy can alleviate their situation.

Serving Ogden and the Salt Lake City area of Utah, we have 26 years of experience helping clients just like you find the answers they need. You can read the questions below and reach out to us to get started on the road to financial freedom.

1. Will bankruptcy work for me?

Absolutely! Bankruptcy is the best option for serious debt problems. Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 are great alternatives for consumers, and Chapter 11 is a clean option for business reorganizations. Contact my office for a free consultation or more information.

2. How much does it cost? How will I pay?

When circumstances require, we can often get a case filed with just a few hundred dollars down. I can make payment arrangements if necessary. Most Chapter 13 cases have the majority of attorney fees included in your monthly payment, so the associated fees are easier to manage.

3. What’s the difference between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13?

Chapter 7 is generally used for removing your debt completely and giving you a fresh start, while Chapter 13 is generally for consolidating some or all of your debt into one manageable monthly payment.

4. Will I lose all of my property if I file Chapter 7?

Chapter 7 is titled “liquidation.” However, there is a long, long list of items that are fully or partially exempt. Ordinary household furnishings, vehicles below a certain value and equity in your home up to a certain extent are fully exempt. Please contact my office for more information.

5. Can I file even if I’ve filed before?

Yes! There is always some kind of relief available. Consult with me about how a new case would work under the circumstances of your particular case.

6. Will I lose my job or have trouble finding one after filing bankruptcy?

Generally, employers will not find out about the bankruptcy unless you choose to tell them. Either way, employers are not allowed to fire or refuse to hire someone or take other adverse action for filing bankruptcy.

7. Will my credit be ruined for the next 10 years if I file for bankruptcy?

Although a Chapter 7 can remain on your credit for 10 years or a Chapter 13 for 7 years, this does not mean that your credit will be ruined for years. Many people are able to get their credit scores to good levels after only one to two years. We have affiliates we can refer you to when the time is right!

8. Will bankruptcy hurt my spouse’s credit?

When one spouse files for bankruptcy protection, his or her spouse’s credit should never reflect a bankruptcy filing. However, one spouse filing a bankruptcy does not resolve co-signed debts for a spouse who does not file.

9. If I file for bankruptcy and get a discharge, will I have to make payments in the future?

If you provided an accurate and nonfraudulent bankruptcy petition, then creditors cannot seek to collect on any debts that were discharged in the bankruptcy case once the case is closed.

10. Will I be able to obtain credit after I file?

Most people have no problem obtaining credit cards after filing for bankruptcy. In fact, there is an industry that caters to extending credit to people who have filed for bankruptcy. We urge you to be careful when seeking new lines of credit.  We will advise you on the best practice for moving forward so you can avoid the many predatory lenders who are ready to take advantage of people coming out of bankruptcy.

11. Should I be embarrassed about bankruptcy filing?

Absolutely not. The whole point of bankruptcy is to help people who have fallen behind on their debts. This happens to countless people every year in the United States, people from all backgrounds and walks of life. If anything, you should be proud of yourself for taking the steps needed to correct the situation and get out of debt.

12. Can I obtain a new house or property during bankruptcy proceedings?

Most likely you won’t be able to purchase a home immediately after filing for bankruptcy relief. However, most people who obtain Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 debt relief are able to purchase a home in the future. In a Chapter 7 it takes two years from the date of discharge. In a Chapter 13 it takes one year from the date of filing. However, it will probably take that long to save for a down payment or improve your credit score. If you are currently in a Chapter 13, the proceedings do require permission from the court.

13. How can I learn more about personal finance and how money works?

We highly recommend going through a personal finance course. There are many on the market today. We have vetted The Financial Fitness program produced by Life Leadership and find it to be a great source of education and practical applications for a better financial future.

14. If I just moved to Utah, in which state do I need to file?

You have to have lived in Utah for at least 91 days to file here. There are some exceptions; meet with me if you believe you fall into this category.