Best Bankruptcy Lawyers Vancouver, WA

Vancouver, WA Bankruptcy FAQs

• Where do I file for bankruptcy in Vancouver, Washington?

  You may file your petition with the Clerk's Office of the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Western District of Washington, which has a division located at the United States Bankruptcy Court 1717 Pacific Avenue, Suite 2100, Tacoma.

• Where can I get bankruptcy forms in Vancouver, Washington?

  You may obtain, download, and print bankruptcy forms on the official website of the United States Courts at www.uscourts.gov/forms/bankruptcy-forms.

• How does chapter 13 bankruptcy work in Vancouver?

  Chapter 13 bankruptcy is ideal for individuals in Vancouver with steady income who are looking for a three-year to five-year repayment plan to settle debts, especially if they do not qualify for chapter 7 or wish to protect their property. It allows the discharge of any remaining unsecured debts, including medical bills and credit card debt, upon the completion of the repayment plan. This type of bankruptcy enables individuals to retain their assets, unlike in chapter 7 bankruptcy.

• Can you discharge all types of debts through chapter 7 bankruptcy in Vancouver?

  No. Filing chapter 7 bankruptcy in Vancouver provides individuals with relief from the responsibility of paying off the majority of their unsecured debts, such as credit card and medical bills. However, it is important to note that not all debts and financial obligations are eliminated through chapter 7 bankruptcy. Certain liabilities, including child support, alimony, specific tax debts, and student loans, are not dischargeable and must still be paid.

• How long does bankruptcy stay on my credit report in Vancouver?

  In Vancouver, the duration that bankruptcy information appears on your credit report depends on the type and outcome of the bankruptcy. If you received a discharge, it typically stays on your report for 10 years. For a dismissed chapter 13 case, it remains for seven years. A dismissed chapter 7 case also remains on your credit report for 10 years, similar to a discharged chapter 7 case.

• Will you also be bankrupt if your spouse files for bankruptcy in Vancouver?

  In Vancouver, if your spouse files for bankruptcy, it does not mean that you will also become bankrupt. However, if you and your spouse share joint debts or accounts or have individual debts that cannot be repaid, you may choose to initiate bankruptcy proceedings together as these joint accounts may affect each spouse’s credit and financial situation.

• Can you be fired from your job for filing bankruptcy in Vancouver?

  No, it is illegal for an employer in Vancouver to fire you because you filed for bankruptcy. Your employer may not be even informed about your filing. In a chapter 7 bankruptcy, your employer would typically only receive notice if they are your creditor or if your wages were being garnished. In a chapter 13 bankruptcy, the reasons for direct notification would be similar to a chapter 7 case.