How Soon can I File for Divorce in an Alabama Court?

What happens when one of the divorcing spouses is not a resident of Alabama? One of the spouses can file for divorce in Alabama when the other spouse has been a bona fide resident of Alabama for at least six months before filing the divorce action. When a spouse files for divorce, he or she must state that one spouse has been a resident of Alabama for at least six months.

What do the Terms Plaintiff and Defendant Mean in an Alabama Divorce?

The spouse who files the action for divorce is called the plaintiff. The other spouse is referred to as the defendant. The legal title of the action initiating the divorce is called the Complaint for Divorce.

What Does the Term Venue Mean in Terms of Divorce?

The term venue refers to the court in which you file an action for divorce. The plaintiff, or spouse filing for divorce, must file the action for divorce in a court with the proper venue. The proper venue is the court in one of the following;

• A court in the county in which the defendant lives, or
• In a Circuit Court of the county in which the parties lived when they separated

When the defendant is not a resident of Alabama, the plaintiff must file the divorce action in the Circuit Court in which the Alabama resident resides.

How Long do I Need to Wait to Get Divorced in Alabama?

After the initial filing of the Complaint for Divorce, the Court must wait at least 30 days to submit the final divorce judgment. Additionally, neither spouse can remarry another person until 60 days after the final divorce decree. If one spouse appeals to the divorce decree, the parties may not remarry other people during the pending appeal.

What are the Reasons or Grounds for Divorce in Alabama?

The term “grounds for divorce” refers to the legally recognized reasons for getting a divorce in Alabama. A spouse who is filing for divorce needs to use one or more of the grounds for divorce in order to justify their divorce. Alabama law permits a judgment of divorce for all of the following grounds or reasons:

• For adultery
• For voluntary abandonment by either spouse for a period of at least one year before the filing of the divorce complaint
• When either spouse, at the time of the marriage, was incurably and physically incapable of consummating the marriage
• When either spouse has been imprisoned for a period of at least two years for a felony. The actual prison sentence must be seven years or more.
• One spouse engaged in crimes against nature before the marriage or during the marriage
• One spouse has an alcohol or drug addiction
• The spouses have a complete incompatibility of temperament that so significant that it prohibits them from living together
• One spouse has been committed to a mental institution for at least five successive years, and a medical professional has declared the spouse incurably and hopelessly insane
• A husband can petition for divorce when his wife was pregnant at the time of the marriage without the husband’s knowledge
• Either party can petition for divorce when one spouse has committed actual violence, or one party placed the other spouse in reasonable apprehension of violence
• The wife has grounds for divorce when she has lived separately and apart from the husband without his financial support for two years prior to filing for divorce, and the wife is a bona fide resident of Alabama.

Does Alabama Offer Simplified Divorce Proceedings?

No, Alabama does not recognize simplified Alabama divorce proceedings, as some other states do. However, defendants can file an answer to the divorce complaint and waive service of process. When a defendant waives service, he or she will dispense with further notice and service issues during the proceedings.

What is Alabama Spousal Support?

Spousal support is sometimes referred to as alimony. Spousal support is money paid from one spouse to the other spouse. Typically, a spouse who loses the benefit of the payor spouse’s income will receive alimony or spousal support.

When can a Spouse Seek Spousal Support?

Alabama courts can order that one spouse support the other spouse while a divorce action is pending. Courts can also order spousal support after the divorce has become finalized. Temporary spousal support only lasts until the final divorce decree has been entered.

How Long Does Alimony or Spousal Support Last?

Temporary alimony lasts until the court enters the decree of divorce. Other spousal support lasts until the court determines that it needs to stop. Divorced spouses can agree in writing to terminate spousal support. Or, the court can terminate spousal support by submitting proof that the spouse receiving support has remarried, or is openly cohabitating or living with a member of the opposite sex.

What Factors do Alabama Courts Consider When Determining Alimony?

Alabama will award alimony when they find that all of the following are true:

• One party lacks his or her own estate, or his or her own estate is not enough to maintain the current lifestyle of the spouses that they enjoyed during the marriage
• The party who is not at a financial disadvantage has the financial ability to make payments
• The payments will allow the financially disadvantaged spouse to enjoy the lifestyle he or she enjoyed during the marriage without any undue financial hardship
• The circumstances surrounding divorce make the alimony award equitable or fair

How do Alabama Courts Determine the Alimony Amount?

When an Alabama court determines that alimony is appropriate, they use a factor test to determine how much alimony to award. Some of the factors that courts consider include the following:

• The individual assets of each party
• Any marital property awarded to each party in the divorce
• The future employment expectations of both parties
• The extent to which one party reduced their income or career potential for the benefit of the other spouse
• The respective faults of the parties when it comes to the breakdown of the marriage
• The health and age of both spouses
• The standard of living that both spouses were used to during the marriage
• The capacity for wage-earning of each party
• The liability of each party following the distribution of marital property after the divorce
• The net income of the spouse who would be required to pay the alimony
• Any other factors deemed necessary and equitable under the circumstances of the case

Contacting an Experienced Alabama Divorce Lawyer

At Bouloukos, Oglesby, & Mitchell Attorneys at Law, our lawyers understand how challenging the Alabama divorce process can be. While we always recommend that couples seek counseling and try to work their marriage out, we understand that divorce is necessary in many cases. It is a wise decision to come to talk with our lawyers as soon as possible.

We can review your situation and help you develop a strategy. We do not charge for an initial consultation at our law firm. Contact our law firm as soon as possible to schedule your initial consultation.

In a Chapter 13 bankruptcy, the debtor must make monthly payments to the bankruptcy trustee. If you have questions about filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, we have assembled a list of frequently asked questions. At Bouloukos, Oglesby, & Mitchell Attorneys at Law, we are always available to discuss any other questions you might have. Contact our law firm today to request a free consultation with one of our skilled bankruptcy attorneys.

What are the Qualifications for Filing a Chapter 13 Bankruptcy?

The first step to filing for a Chapter 13 bankruptcy is discovering whether or not you qualify for Chapter 13 bankruptcy. To qualify for a Chapter 13 bankruptcy, your income tax filings must be up-to-date. You will need to submit proof that you have filed all federal and state income tax returns for the last four years prior to your Chapter 13 bankruptcy filing date.

Your debt must be within the amount of limitations set forth in federal statutes. You must also be employed and have enough income to cover the monthly payment that you are required to pay. You must be filing for bankruptcy as an individual, not as a business. You also must have a sufficient amount of disposable income.

How Much Income Must I Have to Qualify for a Chapter 13 Bankruptcy?

In order to qualify for a Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you will need to prove to the bankruptcy court that you make enough income. You will need to prove that you have enough disposable income to meet your debt repayment obligations. You will need to prove that you can meet your debt repayment obligations after taking away your allowable expenses and making your required payments.

Which Payments Constitute Income When Considering a Chapter 13 Bankruptcy?

• Salary or regular wages
• Self-employment income
• Wages from temporary or seasonal work
• Commissions from work or other sales
• Pension payments
• Social security benefits
• Workers’ compensation benefits or disability benefits
• Strike benefits or unemployment benefits
• Public benefits such as welfare payments
• Alimony and child support
• Rent payments and royalties
• Profits from selling property

Will My Spouses’ Income Count in a Chapter 13 Bankruptcy?

If you are married and filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, your spouse’s income does not necessarily need to be your income. For example, a spouse who does not work can file along and claim money that a working spouse brings in as income. Indeed, an unemployed spouse can also file for Chapter 13 bankruptcy jointly with a spouse who works and has a regular, qualifying income.

How High can My Debts be When Applying for Chapter 13 Bankruptcy?

Your debts cannot exceed a certain amount to qualify for Chapter 13 bankruptcy. The total amounts of your secured and unsecured debts must fall below a certain amount. Currently, those filing for bankruptcy cannot have more than $1,257,850 of secured debt and $419,275 of unsecured debt. When your debt exceeds the limitation, you may need to file a Chapter 11 bankruptcy case instead of a Chapter 13 bankruptcy. The debt limitations change every three years and will change again in April 2022.

What are the First Steps in a Chapter 13 bankruptcy Process?

First, you must complete your bankruptcy paperwork. Next, you will need to take a pre-filing credit counseling course. After you file for bankruptcy, an automatic stay will begin to take effect. The automatic stay bars most of your creditors from attempting to collect on your debts. The automatic stay will not happen until you file your bankruptcy petition and other official forms.

Next, the bankruptcy court will appoint a trustee to oversee your bankruptcy case. Once a trustee has been appointed, you will receive a Notice of Appointment of Trustee from the court. Next, the court will mail your creditors and you a Notice of Chapter 13 Case. This notice will include the date of the creditor’s meeting and the deadline by which creditors must file their claims. It will also state whether or not you as the debtor has filed a plan yet, and the date of the confirmation hearing.

What Happens After Your Creditors Receive Notice of Your Bankruptcy?

After receiving notice of your bankruptcy, creditors will have the option to file written objections to your plan. You will begin working with your trustee, who will govern your bankruptcy case. You will need to provide your assigned trustee with your tax return and other important documents. The trustee may request several other types of documents, as well. Within 30 days after filing your petition for bankruptcy, you will begin making payments per your repayment plan.

Attending the Meeting of Creditors

Within 40 days of filing for bankruptcy, you will need to attend a meeting of creditors. At this meeting, the trustees and creditors can show up and ask you about information in your bankruptcy paperwork.

 How Long do Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Payment Plans Last?

The meeting of creditors takes place within 40 days after filing a bankruptcy petition. At this meeting, you, your creditors, and the trustee will meet. Creditors do not have to attend but can choose to attend. Creditors can raise objections to your plan. Creditors often seek to modify your plan before the confirmation hearing. They will need to file a written objection to the bankruptcy plan to receive a court ruling.

What is a Confirmation Hearing?

The confirmation hearing must take place between 20 and 45 days after the creditor’s meeting unless the bankruptcy court chooses to hold the confirmation hearing sooner. At a confirmation hearing, the court will address certain objections that creditors or trustees raise. Ultimately, the court will decide whether or not to approve or confirm the repayment plan.

When is the Bankruptcy Process Finally Over?

The bankruptcy process is not over until the bankruptcy court grants you a discharge. This typically happens about 36 to 60 months after you file for bankruptcy. However, if you do not complete your plan payments on time, the discharge will happen later.

What is a Hardship Discharge?

In a hardship discharge, the court discharges your debt before you make all of the required payments under your Chapter 13 plan. It is difficult to secure a hardship discharge. You must prove that there is a permanent or serious reason that prevents you from being able to complete the plan, such as a serious illness. You will need to file a motion with the court and meet the following conditions:

• You failed to complete your payments because of circumstances for which you cannot be held accountable
• Your unsecured creditors have already received as much money as they would have received had you filed a Chapter 7 bankruptcy
• A modification of your bankruptcy repayment plan is not feasible

Contact our Experienced Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Lawyers

If you are considering bankruptcy, you probably have serious questions and concerns. The lawyers at Bouloukos, Oglesby, & Mitchell Attorneys at Law can help. After reviewing your situation, we can advise you as to whether you will benefit from a Chapter 13 Bankruptcy. Contact our lawyers as soon as possible to schedule your free consultation and learn how we can help you.

Alabama Child Custody Law

Child custody decisions are often difficult for Alabama family courts. Under Alabama law, the court can choose to give child custody to the mother or the father. Alabama family courts decide custody issues after considering the moral character and prudence of both of the parents. Judges also consider the sex and age of the children involved. Alabama law also gives family courts the power to enter orders regarding the care and custody of minor children. During child custody hearings, both parents can submit evidence as to why they should retain or receive custody of the children.

Child Custody Factors in Alabama

Alabama family court judges consider several different factors when determining which parent to award custody of the child or children. The factors are laid out in Alabama’s statutory law and include the following:

• The age and sex of the child or children
• The needs and characteristics of the children, including their moral, social, emotional, material, and educational needs
• The home environments of each parent
• The specific characteristics of the parent seeking custody, including the party’s character, age, stability, physical, and mental health
• The capacities of each interested party in providing for the children’s needs, including their social, material, moral, and educational needs
• How disturbing or disrupting the child’s custodial situation may negatively or positively affect the child
• The preferences of the child, if the child is sufficiently mature and old enough to offer his or her preferences
• Expert recommendations or reports from independent investigators who the court appoints, or who either party hires
• Any other relevant evidence or factor which either party might present that has a bearing on the determination of the child’s best interest

Which Factors are the Most Important?

One particular factor is not determinative in and of itself. Instead, family court judges take all factors into account. The particular circumstances of each case will require judges to place more emphasis on certain factors. For example, if the child in question has special needs, a family court judge might place more emphasis on the factor related to the social, emotional, and educational needs of the child. Or, if the child with special needs is finally thriving in school, but the school is located close to only one of the parents seeking custody, a judge may consider this situation as a factor that has a bearing on the best interest of the child.

How do Alabama Family Courts Make Custody Decisions?

There is no jury involved when it comes to making custody decisions. Instead, Alabama trial court judges make custody decisions without a jury. Trial court judges decide each case based on its own facts, as measured against the factors set forth in Alabama’s child custody law. Alabama trial court judges have an extensive amount of discretion when it comes to determining child custody arrangements. While wide discretion on the part of a judge can be helpful in child custody cases, it can also be harmful.

Hiring the most experienced lawyer possible to represent you in your child custody case is incredibly important. At Bouloukos, Oglesby, & Mitchell Attorneys at Law, our lawyers have decades of experience representing clients in challenging child custody matters. We have the empathy needed to understand our client’s fears and goals. We also have the trial court experience to understand the best ways to present evidence regarding the best interests of the children involved in the child custody issue. In any divorce lawsuit where custody is an issue, it is essential to present as much evidence as possible that bears on the factors mentioned in the Alabama statute.

How do Alabama Courts Weigh Misconduct by One Party?

Sometimes, one parent involved in a child custody issue is at fault. When a parent commits misconduct, will he or she become barred from gaining custody over his children? The answer is no, not necessarily. Misconduct that leads to a divorce, such as adultery, will not necessarily result in the at-fault parent losing custody of the children.

However, when one parent’s misconduct has a clear negative effect on the children of the marriage, the family court judge will likely consider the misconduct when making a custody decision. For example, when the bad conduct or bad habit of one of the parents would directly hurt the children or played a central role in the marriage breaking down, a judge will likely consider the negative habit heavily. For example, if one of the parents is an alcoholic and engaged in physical abuse of the other parent, leading to the breakdown of the marriage, a judge will likely not grant custody to the abusive parent.

A judge does not need to declare one parent unfit to deny joint custody to both parents. Indeed, losing custody does not mean that one parent is unfit. In many cases, judges must make tough custody decisions when both parents are fit, loving, and caring. At the end of the day, judges must focus on the best interest of the child or children and the factors set forth in the relevant statute.

Do Alabama Judges Prefer Sole Custody or Joint Custody?

Alabama statutory law states that family court judges should prefer granting joint custody. The state’s policy favors joint custody because it normally benefits minor children to have continuing and frequent contact with both of their parents. Thus, family court judges presume that joint custody is best for the children when the parents have both shown the ability to act in the children’s best interests.

Awarding joint custody encourages parents to both engage in the responsibilities and rights of raising their children after divorce or separation. Keep in mind, however, that joint custody does not necessarily mean that the judge will award an equal amount of physical custody time to both parents. In many child custody cases, the judge will grant both parents joint custody and grant one parent primary physical custody of the child. In these situations, judges often grant the other party visitation rights.

Contact Our Birmingham Child Custody Attorneys Today

At Bouloukos, Oglesby, & Mitchell Attorneys at Law, our Birmingham family law firm handles all types of domestic legal issues, including child custody issues. We have helped many parents work through child custody issues in a favorable manner. We have a track record of successfully representing clients throughout the Birmingham area in family court matters. If you are going through a divorce and you are concerned about child custody issues, we can help. We offer potential new clients a no-obligation, free consultation. Contact our law firm today to learn how we can help you.

The trustee might also liquidate or sell some of your property to repay creditors. Chapter 7 bankruptcies are also referred to as “liquidation” and “straight” bankruptcies. Understanding the Chapter 7 bankruptcy process is important, and the first step in filing for a Chapter 7 bankruptcy is determining whether or not you meet the means test.

How Much Does Filing for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Cost?

Filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy usually takes around four to six months, depending on several different factors. The filing itself costs $355 in filing fees and administrative fees. Those filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy must also complete credit counseling with an approved credit counseling agency. The credit counseling agency must be an approved credit counseling and Debtor Education program by the United States Trustee.

Our Birmingham Bankruptcy Attorneys can Help

Of course, the Chapter 7 bankruptcy process can become extremely complicated. Hiring a lawyer to handle your Chapter 7 bankruptcy can be tremendously helpful. At Bouloukos, Oglesby, & Mitchell Attorneys at Law, our  Birmingham bankruptcy attorneys have the skill and experience needed to help you through the bankruptcy process. We thoroughly understand the process of filing for bankruptcy in Alabama. Hiring our law firm to help you with your bankruptcy filing is tremendously valuable. Not only will your stress level decrease knowing that you have professionals in your corner, but you could also save money from our experienced legal advice.

The Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Means Test

In order to qualify for a Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you must first meet the means test. The means test looks at someone’s assets, income, and expenses. The first barrier to applying for a Chapter 7 bankruptcy is making sure that your income is not too high to qualify. The Chapter 7 bankruptcy test can seem quite confusing at first. Applicants will need to file the following forms to determine if they meet the means test:

• Form 122A-1: Chapter 7 Statement of Your Current Monthly Income
• Form 122A-2: Chapter 7 Means Test Calculator

Form 122A-1 will help you evaluate your monthly income as well as your marital status and your filing status. It will help you compare your monthly income to the state’s monthly income. If you are married and filing jointly for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you and your spouse can file Form 122A-1 jointly in most cases. A skilled bankruptcy lawyer can help you determine if you need to file separately.

After stating your marital status and entering your bankruptcy case number, you will need to fill in information about your income level. Entering your income should be somewhat straight forward. To determine your average monthly income, you will need to add up all of your income for the last six months, from all income sources. Next, divide your income by six to and that amount will be your average monthly income. If you are an independent contractor, you own a business, or determining your income is complicated in another way, our skilled Birmingham bankruptcy lawyers can help you determine your accurate monthly income amount.

Providing an Accurate Statement of Income is Essential

It is easy to forget the irregular income you may have received in the last year. It can be wise to look at your bank statements to make sure you do not forget any income sources. Reporting accurate information about your income is essential. If the bankruptcy court determines later that you failed to report all of your income, you could face serious charges.

The more accurate your filing, the better. Take the time to comb through your bank statements so you can accurately report all of your income. As a general rule, any money that shows up as a deposit in your bank account will be considered income by the bankruptcy court. You will also need to fill out the following information:

• Your gross wages before taxes and deductions, as seen on your paystubs
• Any other types of income that you have received
• Any income you receive or expect to receive from child support or spousal support
• Income from any businesses you may own
• Income from investments you own, including dividends
• Any income from being unemployed
• Retirement income
• Any other type of income

Calculate Your Total Monthly Income to See if it Falls Below the Means Test

After you determine your monthly income, multiply it by 12 to determine your annual income. You will need to compare your annual income to the state’s annual median family income for your household size. You can use the U.S. Department of Justice’s website to compare your annual income to the annual median family income for your household size. As of the writing of this article, the median family income for one-earner is $47,680. When two people live in the household, the median family income is $55,905. For three people, the average median family income is $67,334 and for four people, the median is $81,514. The U.S. Department of Justice adds $9,000 for every additional person living in the household, in excess of four. Thus, if you are an Alabama family with three people living in your home, your income would need to be less than $67,334 to pass the first means test for  Chapter 7 bankruptcy.

Most Applicants, but Not All Need to Meet the Means Test

Some applicants who have certain types of debt may not need to meet the means test. When military service provisions apply to the applicant, they may be exempt from the means test. Additionally, when more than half of your debt is non consumer debt, often business debt, rather than consumer debt, you may be exempt from the bankruptcy means test.

Form 122A-2: The Actual Means Test

So, you have finished filling out Form 122A-1 and your income is higher than the median family income. In this case, you will need to file Form 122A-2, the true means test, to determine how much money you have that you can actually use to pay off your debts. When an applicant has too much available money, he or she may not qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy.

When you can show special circumstances that increase your expenses or reduce your available income, you may still qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, even if you do not meet the actual means test. You will be able to use deductions similarly to how you would use deductions when calculating tax payments.

Contact Our Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Attorneys

The means test is essential to qualify for a Chapter 7 bankruptcy. As you can see, the forms used for determining means tests can be quite complicated. Working with an experienced bankruptcy attorney can help relieve stress. When you work with Bouloukos, Oglesby, & Mitchell Attorneys at Law, you will enjoy the benefit of our extensive knowledge and skill. Contact our Birmingham Chapter 7 bankruptcy lawyers today to schedule your initial consultation to learn how we can help you.

If the debt is overwhelming and you are struggling to make ends meet because you are not earning enough to cover living expenses, business expenses, and the cost of all the debt you currently owe to various creditors, you might feel like you are going to need to close your business down for good. Why shut the doors on something you love and about which you are passionate? It is one thing to close a business that has failed and in which you are no longer interested. However, if your business is starting to have more success and you believe that things are only going to get better from this point forward, filing for bankruptcy could potentially help you save your business.

Why is Bankruptcy Worth Considering?

Bankruptcy is worth considering when you constantly feel like you are drowning in all the debt you currently owe to different creditors. It may be hard for you to run your business in the way that you want to because you are getting calls from your creditors each day, too. If you constantly get calls from people who are expecting you to pay what you owe when you simply do not have enough money to make that happen, you are going to feel stressed and worried, and that is going to mess with your productivity rates. It will take time away from your focus on the business and that is never good for a new business.

If you file for bankruptcy, you could work on getting out of debt without necessarily needing to shut your business down. You started the business for a reason – you were passionate about what you were going to offer to the public and you knew that what you could offer would benefit other people, especially your targeted demographics. After putting your all into the business, you should not have to give up on it that easily simply because you have a lot of debt that has become nearly impossible for you to manage. When you file for bankruptcy, you can put a stop to the harassment that you are receiving from your creditors while finding a way to get out of your rut. It is an option that you should talk over with your business partners and a bankruptcy attorney who has helped other business owners that have been in the same type of situation you are in now.

How can Bankruptcy Help Save My Business?

Bankruptcy can save your business because you will have protection from your creditors as soon as you start the filing process. Having some protection from your creditors is quite important. Once you start owing them a lot of money, they could make an attempt to get you to liquidate the business that you have started. Rather than doing things the way that your creditors would want you to, it is possible for you to still have control over the situation by filing for bankruptcy with an attorney and choosing the right method of filing that will help you save your business in the long run while taking care of the debt.

Of course, you will still owe money to your creditors. However, the bankruptcy process can put a stop to their harassing phone call, and it can keep those creditors from taking what you are making or what you have at this very moment.

The only time you should file a Chapter 7 bankruptcy is when you have plans to close your business for good. You could sell everything you have inside the establishment, such as cooking equipment, inventory, and even pieces of artwork that you might have on the walls of your business. The money from the sale of all items liquidated would get distributed to your creditors to help with the process of paying off the debt you owe. However, this is not a suitable option for any business owner that would like to keep the business running while still effectively handling the debt.

Instead of filing Chapter 7, you should talk to a bankruptcy attorney about filing Chapter 13 or Chapter 11 to start handling the debt without getting rid of your business and everything you have put your all into over the past several years. When filing Chapter 13, your bankruptcy attorney can negotiate with your creditors to get debt payments lowered while consolidating those payments to make them more reasonable for you. It may be much easier for you to afford to pay your debt off little by little when the amount owed is broken down into much smaller monthly payments that you can afford because you are still earning income from your business.

When you believe that things are only going to get better for your business and you have high expectations to begin earning a significant amount of money in the future, you might even want to file Chapter 11. The process involves a bit more paperwork, but your bankruptcy attorney could help you complete everything that is requested of you, including a turnaround plan that you are going to put in motion to ensure the success of the business. The plan must be approved in the courtroom and the creditors will get to review it before you get the approval. If it sounds like something that will benefit you and the business you have started, it is surely worth doing.

How Does the Process of Filing for Bankruptcy Begin?

If you want to start the bankruptcy filing process because you are tired of feeling overwhelmed by all the debt that you currently have, you would need to contact a bankruptcy attorney and attend a meeting where you can consult with an attorney about your situation. You would need to go over details about the amount of money you owe to creditors, the number of creditors you currently have, and the amount of money you are bringing in from your business. It helps to bring financial records with you to the consultation to give the attorney more detailed information on your current financial situation.

After talking with the attorney, you can learn about the different ways to file for bankruptcy and choose the option that you feel will best meet your needs over time. When you want to keep your business, Chapter 13 and Chapter 11 are the two best options to consider.

Hire a Bankruptcy Attorney Today

Struggling to stay afloat with your business because of all the debt you owe and not sure how to manage it all? Put a stop to the stress by contacting a bankruptcy attorney and getting the process started to get out of debt without closing the doors of your business. At Bouloukos Oglesby & Mitchell, we have the experience to help business owners with the bankruptcy process. Contact us today at 205-351-0800 for a free consultation.

Is the Debt Erased?

One question most people will ask before filing in this manner is, “Will the debt be erased?” When you file in this way, your debt is not erased, and you will still need to pay it off. However, your attorney can negotiate lower payments and have creditors reduce the total amount of money owed to them. As a result, you would end up paying back much less than what you owed and on terms that are better for you. At the moment, you may be paying hundreds of dollars each month just trying to catch up, while your creditors continue to charge you late fees and interest. However, this would come to a stop when you file Chapter 13.

What is the Repayment Plan?

The repayment plan is something you would need to agree to when filing Chapter 13 bankruptcy. You are essentially agreeing to pay off your debt. While you may think this not a great thing because you are already struggling to pay off what you owe, the repayment plan is ideal for many reasons. Before the plan is devised, your attorney will negotiate with the creditors and will likely have them drastically reduce the amount owed. You may then have the amounts consolidated into one instead of worrying about making all kinds of payments to different creditors each month. You would agree to pay a set amount each month that would get disbursed to your creditors. The amount would be something that you can afford to pay without struggling.

Who is Eligible to File Chapter 13?

You are eligible to file for Chapter 13 bankruptcy if you have thousands of dollars worth of debt and a steady source of income. You need to be able to prove that you can afford to pay off your debt with the repayment plan. The best way to prove this is to provide tax documents that show how much you are currently earning from your workplace. It would also let the creditors know how long you have worked there. Proof of steady income is a requirement. Without a steady source of income, you would not have the opportunity to file for bankruptcy in this way. You would need to speak to your attorney about other options.

How Long is the Repayment Plan?

The length of the repayment plan varies from one person to the next. The reason it varies is that there are a lot of different factors to consider. Some of the factors include:

• Amount of debt owed. Someone who owes a lot more than another person may have a longer repayment plan because it will often take a bit longer for them to pay their debt off.
• Amount of money paid each month. Some individuals agree to pay more than others each month to get rid of their debt. Your monthly payment will depend on the amount of debt owed and what you can afford to pay. If you are paying less each month, it may take you a bit longer to get things paid off, but that is fine.
• Length of time it will take to get the debt paid off. Your repayment plan will continue until you have paid your debt off.

Before you agree to a repayment plan and sign any paperwork, carefully review the terms of the agreement. Make sure that your attorney is looking over the agreement and answering any of the questions that you might have pertaining to it. You should have a good understanding of the agreement before you sign anything and get put on a repayment plan to get rid of your debt for good.

Will Filing Put a Stop to Harassment From Creditors?

Receiving harassment from creditors is frustrating. Although they are not supposed to harass consumers, they will often do things that can easily cause stress and frustration. You have likely received a lot of calls from creditors asking you about your debt and attempting to get you to pay everything off in full. Not only do creditors call home phones and cell phones, but some will even take things a bit further and begin calling consumers at their jobs. No one wants to experience that level of harassment and embarrassment, but it happens. One thing you should know is that filing for bankruptcy does put a stop to the harassment that you have been receiving.

Once the process begins, no creditors should be attempting to contact you directly. Instead, your attorney will speak to your creditors on your behalf and work on the negotiation process. Your attorney’s goal is to have the creditors lower the amount of debt owed by a significant amount because that will make it a bit easier for you to get things paid off. While you may still owe the full amount of any secured debts, it is often possible to have your credit card debt lowered.

Is Bankruptcy a Good Decision?

Consumers often want to know if filing Chapter 13 is the right decision to make. While every person’s situation is different, Chapter 13 is often the right decision for those with a lot of debt who are willing to get on a repayment plan because they have a steady source of income. Before you choose this approach, your attorney will review your financial situation and provide guidance. The attorney will let you know if this is your best option for getting out of debt, improving your credit score, and ultimately improving your financial situation over time.

Considering Filing Chapter 13 Bankruptcy? Make Sure You Have a Bankruptcy Attorney to Assist You

Are you considering filing Chapter 13 bankruptcy? You may believe it is the best way for you to get out of your current financial situation, especially when that situation is dire due to the amount of debt that you have. Choosing this route is often ideal for those looking to get a fresh start without continuing to drown in debt for the next several years. Now that you have the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions on the topic of Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you may feel more confident that this is the right thing for you to do. If so, you need to meet with a skilled bankruptcy attorney who can review your situation and make sure that this is the best move for you to make. At Bouloukos Oglesby & Mitchell, we can provide you with the information you need and help you get the bankruptcy process started. We want to make the process as stress-free as possible for you. Reach out to us today at 205-351-0800 to book a consultation at your earliest convenience.

Are You Eligible to Receive Spousal Support?

An attorney can go through all of the information provided to determine if you are eligible to receive spousal support from your ex. The attorney would need to find out if you are unable to afford the cost of living due to the separation and if your former partner has the means to afford to provide spousal support. Your attorney can let you know if spousal support is something you should request from your ex based on your circumstances. Many people are surprised to find they are eligible to receive support from their exes after divorce.

Legal Advice on the Best Approach to Take

When you consult with an attorney before you file for divorce, you can get professional legal advice on the best approach to take. You want to know how to go about things in the least dramatic and least stressful way possible. Many people make the mistake of rushing to start the filing process because they are fed up and ready to end the marriage. However, your attorney will provide guidance on the steps you need to take to successfully file for divorce while making sure your former partner gets served papers to make him or her aware of the situation.

Handle Mediation Sessions With Your Ex’s Attorney

Mediation is an important part of the divorce process. Most couples will need to compromise with one another while attending mediation with their attorneys present. The goal is to find equal ground, come to a fair agreement that works for both parties, and avoid going through a much lengthier process that involves having a judge make decisions for you. When couples cannot make decisions because they refuse to compromise with one another or attempt to work things out, a judge will often have the final say on who gets what. If you want to make sure that is not the way that things go during your divorce, you should always have your attorney present. Instead of bickering back and forth with your ex, the attorney can speak for you during the mediation process to help you reach an agreement with your ex that is ideal for you.

Some of the different topics that are commonly discussed between attorneys during mediation sessions include:

• Spousal support payments. Both parties may agree to a specific amount where one person from the marriage is paying out a certain amount of money to the other person for a period of time.
• Child visitation and custody agreements. When children are involved, the divorce is often even more stressful because both parties need to agree on a child custody and visitation schedule. It is important to try to talk these kinds of things out with your ex with help from your attorney to prevent a judge from making the custody arrangement for you without your input.
• Division of property. Most married couples accumulate quite a bit of stuff throughout their marriage to one another. Not everyone agrees on how to separate that property. There is no guarantee that equitable distribution will occur. It is best for former couples to speak about their wants and needs during mediation because then they may come up with a fair agreement on the division of their property.

It is because of mediation that many former couples can solve issues outside of the courtroom. During mediation, your attorney would work hard to attempt to reach an outcome that works in your favor.

How to Separate Property in a Fair Way

When you are not sure what will happen to your property in your divorce, you can ask your attorney for professional advice. There are certain things that you might want to keep. If you are not sure how the distribution of property works and you do not know if you will have the opportunity to keep the things that you want, you should talk to your attorney. While there is no guarantee that you will keep all the property that you want, depending on your situation, your attorney will provide advice and insight on what can be done on your behalf to make the split as fair as possible.

Negotiate Child Custody Arrangements

Child custody arrangements are a big deal. You want to make sure you are getting enough time with the children in the aftermath of the divorce. When a marriage ends, not only are both parties impacted by the decision, but so are the children. It is important to provide a sense of normalcy for the children to get them through this time, especially if it is hard on them because they are old enough to understand that their parents are ending the marriage. Things are going to change for your children; they may now need to travel back and forth from one home to the next, attend a new school, move to a new home, and more.

When coming up with a custody agreement with your ex, always put the children first. It is something that your attorney would highly recommend. Consider what is best for the children when attempting to get time with your children. Although you may want to spend all your time with your children, it is only right for your ex to have time with them, too. However, every situation is different. It is for that very reason that you need to hire a divorce attorney. You need to have someone who will listen to your custody preferences while providing you with the best legal advice for your situation.

Preparing to Get a Divorce? Make Sure You Have a Divorce Attorney on Your Side

Getting divorced is often hard on the entire family. Whether you were married for a few years or a few decades, the divorce can take its toll on you, your former partner, and your children. Because of all the different things that must be negotiated during a divorce, it is necessary for you to hire an attorney who can help. Your attorney can do a lot of things to make this process less stressful for you, such as speaking on your behalf during mediation sessions, providing you with genuine legal advice, and making sure you can reach an ideal outcome without experiencing so much frustration. If you are ready to file for divorce and you need an attorney to help, Bouloukos Oglesby & Mitchell would like to help. We want to get you through the divorce proceedings without the added stress. Consult with us for free by calling our office at 205-351-0800 or completing the contact form on our website.

Our Alabama Bankruptcy Lawyers can Help

Bankruptcy can change a person’s life for the better. At Bouloukos, Oglesby, & Mitchell, we focus a large party of our law practice on helping clients file for bankruptcy. Our skilled Birmingham bankruptcy lawyers help clients understand the differences between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcies. We determine which type of bankruptcy is right for them and guide them through the entire process of filing for bankruptcy. We have served the Birmingham community for over 20 years.

Understanding Chapter 7 Bankruptcy

Chapter 7 bankruptcy is also known as liquidation bankruptcy or straight bankruptcy. Debtors can clear away many different types of unsecured debts by filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcies. Filing for a Chapter 7 bankruptcy can greatly help those who cannot make monthly debt payments and payments for living expenses. While Chapter 7 bankruptcies can help individuals who cannot make payments, they will need to give up some of their assets. Those who file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy must also face a lower credit score.

Who is Eligible to File for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy?

Those who file for Chapter 7 bankruptcies must meet a means test. Only those debtors whose income is lower than the median income in Alabama are eligible for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. In other words, if your income is higher than the median income in Alabama, then you will not qualify to file for a Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Chapter 13 bankruptcy, on the other hand, does not have an income limitation requirement.

For those whose income qualifies them, they must complete a credit counseling course approved by the court. These courses are usually only a few hours long. The debtor must attach a certificate showing that he or she completed the course to his or her petition for Chapter 7 bankruptcy.

 Preparing to File for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy

The most important aspect of filing for bankruptcy is to gather all necessary paperwork before you begin the process. Debtors need to gather bank statements, bill statements, notices of overdue payments, and proof of real and personal property ownership. You should also locate any contracts or lease agreements that show the terms of your secured debt agreement.

The Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Process

After filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, the bankruptcy court will place a temporary stay on the debtor’s current debts. The bankruptcy court takes legal possession of the debtor’s property. The court also appoints a bankruptcy trustee to manage the debtor’s case. The temporary stay helps the debtor by doing the following:

• Preventing creditors from garnishing the debtor’s wages
• Stopping creditors from collecting payment on debt
• Preventing mortgage companies from foreclosing on the debtor’s home
• Preventing creditors from repossessing motor vehicles
• Preventing eviction and the turning off of the debtor’s utilities

What Does a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Trustee do?

The bankruptcy trustee has a legal duty to review the debtor’s assets and finances and will oversee the debtor’s Chapter 7 bankruptcy. The trustee determines which property is non-exempt. Trustees sell the nonexempt property and use the proceeds to pay off the debtor’s creditors. Trustees also arrange a creditor meeting. During this meeting, the debtor and creditors will answer questions about his or her bankruptcy filing. At the end of a Chapter 7 bankruptcy, the court will discharge the debtor’s remaining debt including credit card debt, past due rent, medical bills, and other unsecured debts.

What Constitutes Exempt Property in a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy?

Chapter 7 bankruptcy is called liquidation bankruptcy because the debtor liquidates or sells his or her assets in order to pay off debts. Debtors must turn over certain property to the bankruptcy trustee who is managing the bankruptcy case. The debtor does not need to sell all of his or her assets, however. Debtors do not need to sell exempt property in order to repair debts. The following types of assets are usually exempt:

• Motor vehicles, up to a certain amount of value
• Household appliances
• Reasonably necessary household furnishings and goods
• Reasonably necessary clothing
• Pension payments
• A portion of the debtor’s home equity
• Damages awarded to the debtor in a personal injury lawsuit
• Public assistance or welfare benefits such as Social Security payments and unemployment compensation
• Up to a certain amount of jewelry

The following property is usually not exempt in a Chapter 7 bankruptcy proceeding and is subject to liquidation for the repayment of debts:

• A second or third vacation home
• A second motor vehicle
• Expensive musical instruments, unless the debtor uses them for gainful employment
• Family heirlooms
• Stamp, coin, and other valuable collections
• Cash, stocks, bonds, and other investments

Who is Eligible for Chapter 13 Bankruptcy?

A Chapter 13 bankruptcy is also called a “wage earner’s plan.” This type of bankruptcy allows debtors to pay off all or part of his or her debts over time. The benefit of filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy is that the debtor will be able to keep his or her property at the end of the process. In Chapter 7 bankruptcy, the debtor must liquidate or sell all of his or her property to pay off debts. Typically, the Chapter 13 bankruptcy process takes between three and five years.

Who is Eligible for a Chapter 13 Bankruptcy?

Debtors who have a regular income are eligible for a Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Unlike a Chapter 11 bankruptcy, the debtor’s income level is not a barrier to eligibility. Self-employed individuals or individuals who operate an unincorporated business are eligible for Chapter 13 bankruptcy. When filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy in Alabama, the debtor must file a plan with the court. During the process, the debtor will make fixed payments to the bankruptcy trustee on a biweekly or monthly basis.

How Long Does a Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Process Usually Last?

When the debtor’s current monthly income is less than Alabama’s applicable state median income, the plan will usually be for three years. Alabama bankruptcy courts may grant a long time from when the debtor can show cause. For debtors whose income is greater than the median state income in Alabama, the process usually takes five years.

Should I File for Chapter 11 or Chapter 13 Bankruptcy?

Chapter 13 Bankruptcies give the debtor the opportunity to stop foreclosure proceedings on his or her home. Chapter 13 Bankruptcy also stops collection actions against the debtor’s property. At the end of a Chapter 13 Bankruptcy, the debtor gets to keep his or her assets. However, in order to make a Chapter 13 Bankruptcy, the debtor must be able to make the minimum monthly payments. A Chapter 7 bankruptcy may be a better option for a debtor who does not have enough of a monthly income to keep making payments.

Our Alabama Bankruptcy Lawyers can Help

If you know that you probably need to file for bankruptcy, but you are not sure where to start, our lawyers can help. After discussing your case with you, our Birmingham bankruptcy lawyers can discuss which bankruptcy option works best for your situation and your goals. Contact our law firm today to schedule your free consultation and case review.

Alabama Divorce Laws

Every state has requirements for two people to become married. Similarly, every state has its own unique legal requirements for divorce. In order to secure a divorce, individuals must meet Alabama’s divorce requirements. First, in order to file for divorce, an individual must have resided in Alabama for the last six months. Only one of the divorcing spouses needs to meet the residency requirements.

Is Alabama a No-Fault Divorce State?

Those seeking to get a divorce in Alabama can either seek a no-fault divorce or a divorce based on fault. The circumstances of the individual’s situation as well as his or her goals will influence which routes the individual will take. In Alabama, one spouse does not need to prove that the other spouse is at fault in order to file for a divorce. For those who seek a no-fault divorce, Alabama courts will recognize either “irretrievable breakdown” or “incompatibility of temperament” as the cause of the divorce.

The simplest way to end a marriage in Alabama is usually filing a petition for divorce that states that the marriage is irretrievably broken. In a no-fault divorce, courts only require the testimony of one of the spouses. For example, one spouse can give personal testimony as to why the marriage suffered an irretrievable breakdown. Even when one spouse does not want to get divorced, the other spouse can seek a divorce based on incompatibility of temperament.

The Benefits of a Fault Based Divorce in Alabama

Many of our clients wonder why anyone would file for fault-based divorce when a no-fault divorce option is available. When one spouse can prove that the other spouse is at fault for the divorce, the court will usually grant the spouse who is not at fault with a more favorable divorce settlement. In a fault-based divorce, the party petitioning for divorce asks the court to determine whether the other spouse caused the failure of the marriage. The party seeking a divorce must name one of the following standard grounds for divorce:

• Irretrievable breakdown of the marriage
• Physical and incurable incapacitation at the time of the marriage
• Voluntary abandonment for a period of at least one year
• Imprisonment for two years with a prison sentence of at least seven years
• Commission of a crime against nature before or after the marriage
• Addiction to habitual drunkenness or habitual use of opium, cocaine, morphine, or another drug after the beginning of the marriage
• Adultery
• Cruelty
• Hopeless and incurable insanity with confinement in a mental hospital for a period of at least five years

Currently, very few individuals seek a fault-based divorce. However, there are some benefits to doing so. When a judge makes a determination of who is at fault for the divorce, the decision can impact division of property and spousal maintenance. Those requesting a divorce must wait for 30 days after one party files the summons and complaint before the court will finalize the divorce.

What Happens if Your Spouse Does Not Agree to Divorce in Alabama?

Alabama recognizes no-fault divorces. However, petitioning for a no-fault divorce does not mean that the other spouse cannot contest the divorce. A contested divorce happens when one spouse does not agree to the divorce. One spouse may refuse to agree with the other spouse about spousal maintenance, child custody, or the divisions of property. Marriage is essentially a contract. Dissolving the contract of marriage requires the spouses to come to a mutual agreement on a variety of legal issues.

Many spouses who seek a divorce in Alabama hope to proceed with a hassle-free divorce process. However, even couples who intend to have a hassle-free divorce can end up in a litigious and difficult contested divorce. The divorce process can bring out disagreements over the separation of property and child custody. Going through a contested divorce can be incredibly stressful and strenuous.

The Process for Filing a Divorce in Alabama

The first step in receiving a divorce in Alabama is filing a complaint. The person filing for divorce is called the plaintiff. The plaintiff and his or her attorney will file a complaint that sets forth the reason for the divorce. The complaint is a legal document that asks the court to grant the plaintiff’s terms related to the following issues:

• Spousal support
• Division of property
• Child custody
• Child support

The complaint will state the reason for the divorce and establish whether the divorce is no-fault. If the plaintiff is seeking a fault-based divorce, the complaint should establish the justification for seeking a fault-based divorce. The plaintiff must deliver the complaint to his or her spouse by certified mail, through a process server, or by a representative of the sheriff’s department.

The spouse who did not file the complaint will have 30 days to respond to the complaint. If the spouse fails to respond to the complaint in time, the family law court will usually enter a default judgment in favor of the plaintiff. When the spouse answers the complaint and agrees to the terms, the judge will enter an order for a no-fault divorce. However, when the spouse does not agree to the terms and states as much in his or her answer, the divorce will become a contested divorce and proceed to the discovery phase.

Discovery and Negotiation in the Alabama Divorce Process

In a contested Alabama divorce, attorneys will conduct a thorough investigation. The investigation often includes securing important documents, gathering evidence, and taking depositions. Attorneys may need to file depositions on behalf of their clients to obtain information. When a family law judge has ruled on all motions, the parties will begin negotiating the divorce settlement. A family court judge may request that the spouses work with an independent mediator appointed by the court.

When the parties agree on a revised divorce settlement, the judge may approve the settlement and finalize it. If not, a divorce trial will begin. Divorce trials happen when the parties cannot agree on a settlement. After a divorce trial, the judge will rule on any issues related to the divorce that remain in dispute. Contested divorces can take a year or more, depending on the complexity of the issues involved in the divorce. When Alabama judges issue unfavorable divorce settlements, parties have a right to appeal the judge’s ruling within 42 days of the ruling.

Birmingham Divorce Lawyers

Alabama residents who are facing a divorce are not alone. It is normal to feel emotional stress and a sense of being overwhelmed while going through a divorce. At Bouloukos, Oglesby, & Mitchell, our compassionate attorneys will listen intently to your background and your goals. We will then develop a strategy for your divorce that works in your best interest. We understand that child custody issues are particularly important to parents going through a divorce. That is why we fight so hard on behalf of our clients and the interests of their kids. Contact our Birmingham divorce law firm today to schedule your initial consultation.

You Have Thousands of Dollars in Debt

If you owe thousands of dollars to different creditors, trying to catch up is tough. It is even harder if your income is still the same as it was when you initially applied for the credit cards and loans from the different lenders. The problem with having this much debt is that it usually only gets worse. These companies begin charging late fees each time you miss a payment and those late fees will quickly start adding up. By the time the credit card company charges your account off and sends it to a third-party debt collector, the amount you owe is going to be much higher than the amount you initially spent.

When you cannot afford to pay the money back on the amount you already owe, you are going to have a hard time trying to come up with additional funds to afford the cost of the interest fees and late fees that have been tacked on to these amounts over time. If you feel like you are in a vicious circle and you cannot seem to pay off enough of your debt in a timely manner, bankruptcy is likely your best option. You would have a way to finally get out of that financial rut.

You No Longer Have Money in Your Savings Account

In the past, you have likely added money to a savings account because you wanted to have some extra money available for rainy days. If you have pulled everything from your savings account to pay off some of your debt and you still owe a lot of money with no more savings available, you should consider filing for bankruptcy. You cannot pull money out of anywhere when you have a depleted savings account. You probably think you will never have an opportunity to get caught up and begin saving again because of all the money you owe to the creditors.

Debt Collectors are Constantly Contacting You

Are debt collectors constantly trying to get in touch with you? When they want to find out if you are going to pay what you owe to them, they will call at all hours of the day and night, including early in the morning and at night when you might be trying to eat dinner with your family or even get some sleep. Constant calls can cause a lot of frustration. Some people who are dealing with debt describe the chronic calls as maddening because it is like the phone is always ringing and there is always someone on the other line asking about money and reminding you of your debt.

Aside from contacting you to try to get in touch with you about the debt you owe, debt collectors often call places of employment and relatives of those who owe money. You are not going to want your employers or relatives to find out about your personal finances and the struggle you are having with debt. Not only is it embarrassing, but it can cause you to experience judgment from others, even if they do not understand your situation. When you are getting these calls daily, you can attempt to block the numbers from reaching out to you, but the debt collectors will simply call from a new, different number. It starts to feel a lot like harassment. If you cannot stand the thought of dealing with these calls for much longer, filing for bankruptcy would put a stop to the harassment you are currently receiving. Once you start the filing process, the creditors would no longer be able to contact you. Your lawyer would work on handling negotiations with them instead.

You are Struggling to Stay Afloat

Has it been nearly impossible for you to stay afloat due to your finances? Even if you are currently employed and earning a decent living, you might not have enough to afford mortgage payments or rent, groceries, bills, and credit card/loan payments. There have likely been times where you were paying off some of your debt instead of buying food to eat. You should never have to suffer in that kind of way. You need to have shelter, food, running water, and electricity. The debt you owe should not come before any of these things.

Once you have paid your rent or mortgage, purchased food, and paid off other bills for the house, you might not be left with much money. If you cannot afford to pay even the minimum monthly payment to each of your creditors, you are never going to be able to get ahead because those creditors will keep charging you more money for being late. If you are struggling financially and would still like to get out of debt, filing for bankruptcy is the right thing to do.

Choosing the Way to File

If you are going to file for bankruptcy because it is the best way for you to get control over your finances again, you should hire a bankruptcy attorney and then go over the different ways to file to figure out which one is best for you. The two primary methods of filing are known as Chapter 13 and Chapter 7. With Chapter 13, your debt is negotiated and then you can get on a repayment plan that is affordable and completely doable for you based on your income. With Chapter 7, you can have your debt completely erased, but you would need to sell off your possessions to pay your creditors. You would not need to sell the home you live in or the vehicle you drive, but you would likely need to sell additional homes and cars if you own them. Those  who would like to file Chapter 13 will need to provide proof of steady employment.

You will know when it is time to file for bankruptcy when your debt continues to pile up and you cannot afford to make payments anymore. If you feel like you are drowning in all the debt you owe and you are constantly receiving calls from debt collectors as they attempt to get money from you, there is a good chance that you are feeling overwhelmed, stressed, and frustrated. While it may feel like you will never get out of this situation, there is hope because filing for bankruptcy is always a suitable option.

If you are ready to get out of your difficult financial situation, file for bankruptcy with an experienced and reliable bankruptcy lawyer. You can get in touch with Bouloukos Oglesby & Mitchell at 205-352-4205.