Louisville, KY Bankruptcy & Legal FAQs

Why should I choose Christopher Kurtz Law Office?

Whether you are facing bankruptcy or another important legal issue, you need high-quality, experienced, knowledgeable representation. You will have all these qualities and more when you choose Christopher Kurtz Law Office. Attorney Christopher Kurtz personally handles every single case, from intake to the preparation, to filing and making court appearances. No other attorney or staff member handles your case, your closing, or your litigation case. Unlike other firms, which may pass you on to a staff member, Chris will be your personal contact for each call, each meeting, and each issue you may have.  We are conveniently located in the Highlands, at 608 Baxter Avenue, Louisville, Kentucky. If personal, highly experienced legal assistance is what you want, contact the Christopher Kurtz Law Office today.

What service can I expect?

Our clients have come to expect exemplary legal assistance when a bankruptcy filing is necessary, as well as help preparing an estate plan, assistance with a real estate issue, help with commercial litigation or a commercial real estate tax appeal, or a personal injury claim. The Christopher Kurtz Law Office is focused on the core values of honesty and the goal of never compromising the truth. When you become a client of the Kurtz Law Office, you can expect affordable representation and individual attention and to deal directly with Christopher Kurtz. You will have face-to-face meetings when necessary and personalized, one-on-one customer service. We offer weekend and evening meetings to work with your schedule when required.

What is bankruptcy?

Bankruptcy is a legal process that allows individuals or businesses who are unable to repay their debts to seek relief from financial obligations. The process can provide a fresh financial start by either eliminating or reorganizing debts. Under federal law, you have a right to file bankruptcy as a way to protect yourself from unreasonable financial hardship in times of undue strain. Most commonly, this occurs in times of job loss, debt accumulation, or after facing extreme medical expenses.

There is a great deal of stigma attached to bankruptcy, but filing for either Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy can actually be the first step towards guaranteeing a more financially-stable future for yourself and your loved ones.

Read more about how a lawyer can help with the process of filing for bankruptcy.

What are the different types of bankruptcy?

The most common types of bankruptcy for individuals are Chapter 7 and Chapter 13. Chapter 7 bankruptcy involves the liquidation of assets to pay off debts, while Chapter 13 bankruptcy allows individuals to create a repayment plan to pay off their debts over a specified period of time.

Should I file for bankruptcy?

Determining if bankruptcy is right for you depends on many factors, including the amount of debt you owe, your ability to repay the debt(s), and your financial goals. Consulting with a bankruptcy attorney is the best way to assess your situation and explore available options. 

Do I need an attorney to file for bankruptcy?

As with most legal and financial procedures in the US, you are not required to have an attorney represent you. However, it is highly recommended to retain a lawyer with bankruptcy experience if you find yourself going through the bankruptcy process.

Bankruptcy attorneys are much more affordable than most people anticipate and far less costly than making a mistake during your bankruptcy proceedings. Your lawyer will help you navigate the complexities of the complex legal process, help you understand your rights and options, and ensure that you accurately complete all the necessary paperwork.

Can bankruptcy eliminate all of my debts?

Bankruptcy can eliminate many types of unsecured debts, such as credit card debt, medical bills, and personal loans. However, certain types of debts, such as student loans, taxes, and child support, may not be eliminated by filing for bankruptcy.

Will filing for bankruptcy affect my credit score?

Filing for bankruptcy will have a negative impact on your credit score. However, if you are experiencing financial hardship, it is likely that your score has already been affected. While bankruptcy may cause your credit score to decrease in the short term, it is often the best choice for your score’s long-term health, as it allows you to rebuild your credit over time by managing your finances responsibly.

Can I lose my job if I file for bankruptcy?

No, your employer cannot fire you or otherwise retaliate against you for filing bankruptcy. In fact, it’s unlikely your employer will learn that you’ve filed for bankruptcy unless you inform them yourself. Otherwise, they will likely only learn of your bankruptcy filing if your wages are garnished or if the court requires that your Chapter 13 bankruptcy payments be deducted directly from your wages.

Will I lose my home, car, or other property if I file for bankruptcy?

In some cases, you may be able to keep your home or car while filing for bankruptcy. If you are up-to-date on your mortgage or car loan payments, you may be able to reaffirm the debt and continue making payments to retain ownership. Certain assets may also be exempt, allowing you to keep them even after filing bankruptcy. These exemption rules vary by state, so it is important to consult with an experienced Kentucky bankruptcy attorney to find out what assets you may be able to retain.

Will debt collectors and/or creditors stop calling me after I file for bankruptcy?

After you file for bankruptcy, creditors and debt collectors will be notified of your filing. This will notify them that they are no longer allowed to contact you. If you continue to get calls from creditors after you have filed, you can inform them you have recently filed for bankruptcy and provide them with your case number. This will ensure that they immediately add you to their “do not contact” list.