Advocating For Consumers In Bankruptcy Filings For More Than 25 Years

Are You Planning For Bankruptcy And Divorce?

Last updated on August 17, 2023

If you are considering filing for divorce, it is important to remember that your marital debt will be just as much a part of your final property settlement as your savings, house and family cars. If you don’t think you will be able to repay your portion of marital debt you are forced to accept as part of the divorce settlement, you may need to file for bankruptcy. The timing of the filing is important to get the best debt relief, however. In some instances, you may be better served to file for bankruptcy prior to the divorce; in other cases, the reverse might be true.

At the Law Office of Paul L. Urich, P.A., I represent individuals heading into divorce with a heavy debt load. Talk to me before you file for divorce. I can explain the bankruptcy process and how both parties can often avoid the burden of excess debt by filing as a married couple. In the event you are unable to file as a family, I can help you restructure or eliminate your personal debt to avoid a heavy debt burden resulting from the final settlement.

Discuss your case with me for free before you file for divorce. Call me in Orlando at 407-915-0842.

What If Your Spouse Accepts The Debt?

Even if your spouse agrees to accept the marital debt as part of the settlement, it doesn’t necessarily protect you from obligations. All your creditors care about is who’s name is on the loan agreement. In most cases, your name will be on the bottom line. Telling the collections caller that your ex-spouse is responsible for the debt isn’t likely to matter to them. If your ex-spouse doesn’t pay the debt, you are still on the hook for it. It is important to get your name off the debt before the divorce judgment is finalized.

What If You Have Accepted The Debt As Part Of Your Settlement?

If you have accepted the debt as part of the divorce settlement, you may not be able to discharge it by filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. The courts often consider your acceptance of the debt as part of the spousal support obligation. Child support and spousal support (alimony) obligations are not dischargeable debt. It is important to eliminate as much debt as possible before your divorce.

If You Intend To File For Divorce, Call My Firm First!

The Law Office of Paul L. Urich, P.A., is based in Orlando, and I represent clients throughout central Florida. To schedule your free initial consultation, call me at 407-915-0842 or submit an online contact form.

I am a debt relief agent. I help people file for bankruptcy relief under the Bankruptcy Code.

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