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Arguments Against Bankruptcy Law

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One of the first questions asked by most people who are considering filing for the relief offered by bankruptcy is “can I keep my house?” Your home is usually your biggest asset, but it is also so much more. Your home is where your family gathers after a long day, is where you host the holidays and watch your kids blow out their birthday candles, and is also where you go to feel safe. Shelter is one of the basic necessities of life, and given the fact your home does more than just provide shelter from the elements, it is no wonder homeowners who are struggling financially will question their ability to keep their house. The protections offered by bankruptcy are that most unsecured debt can be eliminated, which frees up your income for other debts. But, one of the most misunderstood concepts of bankruptcy law is that you can keep things without making these payments. This is simply not the case.
What bankruptcy does is to eliminate debt for collateral you no longer wish to possess, and can also wipe out unsecured obligations. The exact way in which …show more content…

For example, for personal and real property (like your car or house), the creditor will usually ask you to sign a reaffirmation agreement. This type of agreement is essentially a new contract for the debt. You will be obligated to make the payments pursuant to the reaffirmation agreement, even after your bankruptcy is finished. The same consequences apply post-bankruptcy if you fail to make a payment, meaning the lender can sue you for the balance due or to foreclose on your home. Other property is kept because bankruptcy law allows for you to claim an exemption in certain things. Child support and retirement accounts are examples of exempt property. But, be careful! There are limits on the value (or dollar figure amount) you can exempt, and any amount over that cap will become property of the estate and subject to seizure by the bankruptcy

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