Q: My spouse and I are having are hard time making ends meet. The strain from these financial troubles drives us towards divorce. Could filing bankruptcy really save my marriage?

A: Chapter 7 Bankruptcy can provide extraordinary relief for qualified candidates, especially married couples. The goal of a Chapter 7 case is to eliminate personal responsibility for debts owed at the time the bankruptcy petition is filed. In exchange, petitioners submit their non-exempt property to their creditors so that it may be sold and the proceeds divided. Filing a bankruptcy petition stops wage garnishments, creditor lawsuits, and harassing phone calls from collection agencies. Couples struggling with mounting debt may find Chapter 7 gives their marriage a fresh start.

Q: I got behind on my house payment. I have been trying to get my mortgage company to modify my mortgage but the bank keeps requiring more paperwork. I feel like the process will never end and the bank will foreclose on me no matter what. Is there a way force the mortgage company to compromise with me?

A: Chapter 13 Bankruptcy empowers qualified consumers to create a repayment plan to deal with mortgage debt. This plan allows the repayment of past due mortgage debt over time. The mortgage company must comply with the approved plan, which means your house is safe from foreclosure while you comply with the plan that is in effect. You may dismiss your Chapter 13 case at† any time or convert it to Chapter 7.