Bankruptcy is a legal process that helps individuals and businesses to eliminate or repay their debts. It is a complex process that requires the assistance and guidance of an experienced bankruptcy attorney. Before filing bankruptcy in New Mexico, it’s important to be aware of certain details. This article offers a thorough guide on the process of filing for bankruptcy in New Mexico.
- BBB A+ Rating & Accredited
- $500 Million Debt Resolved
- $7,500 Minimum Debt
Types of Bankruptcy
There are several types of bankruptcy that you can file in New Mexico, but the most common ones are Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy.
Chapter 7 bankruptcy
Also known as “liquidation bankruptcy.” It is designed for individuals and businesses with little or no assets and a significant amount of unsecured debt. With Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you can eliminate most of your unsecured debts, such as credit card debt, medical bills, and personal loans. However, you may have to surrender some of your assets to the bankruptcy trustee, who will sell them to pay off your creditors.
Chapter 13 bankruptcy
On the other hand, is also known as “reorganization bankruptcy.” It is designed for individuals with a regular income who want to keep their assets and repay their debts over a period of three to five years. With Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you can keep your assets, such as your home and car, and pay off your debts through a court-approved repayment plan.
Bankruptcy Exemptions in New Mexico
Bankruptcy exemptions are the property and assets that you can protect from liquidation or seizure by the bankruptcy trustee. In New Mexico, you can use either the federal bankruptcy exemptions or the New Mexico state exemptions. Some of the common bankruptcy exemptions in New Mexico include:
- Homestead exemption: You can exempt up to $60,000 of equity in your primary residence.
- Personal property exemption: You can exempt up to $4,000 of personal property, such as furniture, clothing, and appliances.
- Vehicle exemption: You can exempt up to $4,000 of equity in your motor vehicle.
- Retirement account exemption: You can exempt most types of retirement accounts, such as IRAs and 401(k)s.
The Bankruptcy Process
The bankruptcy process in New Mexico can take several months to complete and involves several steps, including:
- Filing bankruptcy petition: You must file a petition with the bankruptcy court in your district. The petition must include your financial information, such as your income, expenses, debts, and assets.
- Automatic stay: Once you file bankruptcy, an automatic stay goes into effect, which stops all collection activities, including foreclosure, repossession, and wage garnishment.
- Meeting of creditors: You must attend a meeting of creditors, where you will answer questions from the bankruptcy trustee and your creditors.
- Discharge: If you file Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you will receive a discharge of your unsecured debts, which eliminates your legal obligation to pay them. If you file Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you will receive a discharge after you complete your repayment plan.
Hiring a Bankruptcy Attorney
Filing bankruptcy is a complex and stressful process that requires the guidance and assistance of an experienced bankruptcy attorney. A bankruptcy attorney can help you understand your options, navigate the bankruptcy process, and protect your rights and assets.
When hiring a bankruptcy attorney in New Mexico, you should look for someone who has experience in bankruptcy law, understands the local bankruptcy rules and procedures, and is responsive to your needs and concerns.
Alternatives for Bankruptcy
Debt Consolidation
Debt consolidation is a strategy that combines all of a person’s outstanding debt into a single loan or payment. The purpose of debt consolidation is to simplify the debt repayment process and potentially lower the total amount of interest paid over time.
Debt consolidation can be a good option for people with multiple high-interest debts, such as credit cards, medical bills, or personal loans. However, it’s important to note that debt consolidation doesn’t necessarily eliminate debt but rather reorganizes it, so it’s important to have a plan to pay off the consolidated debt.
Debt Settlement
Debt settlement is a financial strategy that aims to reduce the amount of debt owed by an individual or organization. It involves negotiating with creditors to accept a lower amount than what is owed, and then making a lump sum payment to settle the debt.
Debt settlement can be a viable option for those struggling with debt and unable to make their monthly payments. However, it can also have negative impacts on credit scores and may not be the best solution for everyone. It is important to carefully consider all options and seek professional advice before deciding on debt settlement.
Conclusion
Filing bankruptcy in New Mexico can be a difficult decision, but it can provide you with a fresh start and a chance to rebuild your financial future. If you are considering filing bankruptcy, you should consult with an experienced bankruptcy attorney who can guide you through the process and help you achieve the best possible outcome. With the right guidance and support, you can overcome your financial challenges and achieve a brighter future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is bankruptcy?
Bankruptcy is a legal process that allows individuals or businesses to eliminate or restructure their debts.
What are the different types of bankruptcy?
There are two main types of bankruptcy for individuals: Chapter 7 and Chapter 13. Chapter 7 is a liquidation bankruptcy that eliminates most unsecured debts, while Chapter 13 is a reorganization bankruptcy that allows individuals to repay their debts over a period of three to five years.
What are the requirements for filing bankruptcy in New Mexico?
To file for bankruptcy in New Mexico, you must reside in the state for at least 91 days prior to filing and complete a credit counseling course.
How does bankruptcy affect my credit score?
Bankruptcy can have a negative impact on your credit score, but it also provides an opportunity to start rebuilding your credit. With responsible financial management, you can improve your credit score over time.
Can I keep my assets if I file for bankruptcy?
In Chapter 7 bankruptcy, some assets may be exempt from liquidation. In Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you can keep your assets as long as you repay your debts according to the court-approved plan.
How long does the bankruptcy process take?
The length of the bankruptcy process depends on the type of bankruptcy and the complexity of your case. Chapter 7 typically takes about four to six months, while Chapter 13 takes three to five years.
Will bankruptcy stop creditors from harassing me?
Yes, filing for bankruptcy will put an automatic stay on most collection actions, including phone calls and letters from creditors.
Can I file for bankruptcy multiple times?
Yes, but there are restrictions on how often you can file. If you previously filed for Chapter 7, you must wait eight years before filing again. If you previously filed for Chapter 13, you must wait two years before filing again.
Will I lose my job if I file for bankruptcy?
No, it is illegal for an employer to discriminate against an employee based on their bankruptcy filing.
Do I need an attorney to file for bankruptcy?
While it is possible to file for bankruptcy without an attorney, it is recommended to consult with an experienced bankruptcy attorney to ensure your rights are protected and your case is handled properly.
Glossary
- Bankruptcy: A legal process for individuals or businesses to declare themselves unable to pay their debts.
- Chapter 7 Bankruptcy: A type of bankruptcy where a debtor’s non-exempt assets are liquidated to pay off their creditors.
- Chapter 13 Bankruptcy: A type of bankruptcy where a debtor’s debts are reorganized and a repayment plan is established.
- Debtor: A person or entity who owes money to another person or entity.
- Creditor: A person or entity to whom money is owed by another person or entity.
- Exemptions: Assets that are protected from being liquidated during bankruptcy.
- Automatic Stay: A legal order that stops creditors from attempting to collect debts from a debtor once bankruptcy has been filed.
- Trustee: A court-appointed official who oversees the bankruptcy process and manages a debtor’s assets.
- Discharge: A court order that eliminates a debtor’s obligation to pay certain debts.
- Means Test: A calculation used to determine if a debtor is eligible to file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy.
- Priority Debts: Debts that must be paid off first during bankruptcy proceedings.
- Non-priority Debts: Debts that are not given priority during bankruptcy proceedings.
- Secured Debts: Debts that are backed by collateral, such as a mortgage or car loan.
- Unsecured Debts: Debts that are not backed by collateral, such as credit card debt or medical bills.
- Reaffirmation: A process where a debtor agrees to continue paying off a debt even after bankruptcy proceedings have ended.
- Dismissal: A court order that terminates the bankruptcy case without granting a discharge.
- Adversary Proceeding: A lawsuit filed during bankruptcy proceedings to determine the validity of a debt or the dischargeability of a debt.
- Bankruptcy Petition: The initial document filed with the court to begin the bankruptcy process.
- Bankruptcy Code: The federal law that governs bankruptcy proceedings in the United States.
- Bankruptcy Court: A specialized court that handles bankruptcy cases and related disputes.
- Federal exemptions: Federal exemptions refer to certain provisions or rules that exempt individuals or entities from certain federal laws or regulations.
- Mexico bankruptcy court: A legal entity in Mexico that oversees bankruptcy cases and proceedings.
