VENTURA BANKRUPTCY

LAWYERLaw Offices of Janet L. Mertes

PROTECTING YOUR FINANCIAL RIGHTSIf you are struggling with debt, you are not alone! California consistently ranks as the leading state in number of declared bankruptcies. Given that most debt crisis occur not by uncontrolled spending, but as a result of an unexpected financial burden, the statistics are not surprising in today's economy.At the Law Offices of Janet L. Mertes, we have dedicated our practice to providing the supportive counsel and effective representation our clients need when confronting an overwhelming legal difficulty. Our Ventura bankruptcy lawyer has helped thousands of individuals tackle their burden of debt and regain their financial stability.

STOP CREDITOR HARASSMENT, GARNISHMENTS & FORECLOSURES

The bankruptcy codes were created to provide a legal means for consumers to address their outstanding debt and protect their rights in the process. No matter what type you declare, filing for Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy can do the following:■ Put a halt to credit agency harassment■ Stop wage garnishments■ Prevent creditor law suitsPetitioning for legal debt relief can alleviate much of the stress associated with devastating debt so you can begin rebuilding your financial stability.

ATTORNEY MERTESDue to the unique nature of your situation, deciding if you should declare bankruptcy and what type of bankruptcy would work for you is best done with the assistance of insightful legal counsel. Attorney Janet L. Mertes can assess your circumstances and help you determine which would be the most favorable course of action for you and your financial future.

WHAT CAN BANKRUPTCY DO FOR YOU?Bankruptcy can eliminate or restructure numerous types of debt, including:■ Credit card debt■ Personal loans and lines of credit■ Medical bills■ Mortgage debt, including second mortgages and HELOCs■ Auto loans■ Some tax debt

CREDIT CONSOLIDATION VS. BANKRUPTCYThe television jingles guaranteeing debt relief through consolidation are full of hollow promises. In reality, credit consolidation may actually increase your debt obligation and make it harder to rebuild your good credit. There is no law mandating any of your creditors to accept consolidation. Additionally, if they do "forgive" your debt, the amount you owed can now be considered as income and subject you to an unexpected tax bill.Bankruptcy, on the other hand, is governed by federal and state law. Once granted, your creditors have to adhere to the terms stipulated by the courts.

FREE CONSULTATIONAt the Law Offices of Janet L. Mertes, we recognize excessive debt can have a significant impact on your day-to-day life and cause you to be apprehensive about your future. If you still have questions regarding bankruptcy in Ventura, visit our bankruptcy FAQ page for relevant answers to common concerns.