Bankruptcy

Contra Costa/Solano/Marin/Alameda Bankruptcy Attorney

Most of us believe that bankruptcy just can’t happen to us. We’re responsible citizens, hold regular jobs or own our own businesses. Then the unimaginable happens! Something like the present mortgage meltdown. Or an injury that puts us out of work. Or an illness that devastates us financially.

OPTION 1: AVOID BANKRUPTCY

The new federal bankruptcy laws make it virtually impossible to “start fresh.” Mandatory repayment is a near-certainty. Under these circumstances it’s better to try to keep a Chapter 7 off your credit record for the next seven to ten years. Dowe Law will negotiate with your creditors in an effort to make your repayment schedule one you can live with. Having an attorney negotiate in your behalf has several advantages. It communicates to your creditors that you’ll protect your rights. It can end harassing phone calls. And you have the assurance that your affairs will remain confidential.

OPTION 2: CHAPTER 7

Chapter 7 is the original form of “fresh-start” bankruptcy. But not everyone qualifies. For example, if your income is above the California median, you probably can’t file Chapter 7. The alternative is Chapter 13, which requires a repayment plan. (See Option 1.)

Additionally, Chapter 7 does not cancel:

• Any lien on personal or real property (the debt will be canceled, but you don't get to keep the security if you don't pay for it).
• Most income taxes incurred in the last three years.
• All student loans, unless you qualify for a hardship discharge.
• Child support and spousal support or property settlements.
• Any money that you owe as a result of injuring or killing someone while you were operating a motor vehicle, vessel or aircraft under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or another substance.

Dowe Law will file your Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy if negotiations fail. And as you’d expect in these circumstances, our fees are quite reasonable.

Initial Consultation $25
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Over 18 years of compassionate service!

The offices of Dowe Law, located in San Pablo and Pleasant Hill, California, provides skilled legal counsel to residents of Contra Costa, Alameda, Solano and Marin counties and the cities of El Cerrito, Oakland, Berkeley, Richmond, Pinole, Concord, Pleasant Hill, Lafayette, Moraga, Orinda, Martinez, the Tri-Valley and Vallejo.

Dowe Law
3478 Buskirk Avenue | Suite 1008
Pleasant Hill, CA, 94523
Tel: 925.746.7120
Fax: 925.746.7101
E-mail: Contact Us

Dowe Law
13925 San Pablo Avenue | Suite 203
San Pablo, CA, 94806
Tel: 510.233.7700
Fax: 510.233.7705
E-mail: Contact Us