Image Licensing Protections: An Introduction

About Pursuing Chapter 7 Bankruptcy With Help From A Lawyer

30 June 2015

Judy Alexander

Has the frustration of constantly dealing with debt collectors led to you wanting to file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy? Before going through the filing process, you may want to hire a lawyer to assist, just in case there is another solution to the problem. Find out below why help from a lawyer is ideal when pursuing debt forgiveness through Chapter 7 bankruptcy.

Why Should Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Be Pursued with Help from a Lawyer?

First of all you must understand that you will not be approved for Chapter 7 bankruptcy just because you want it. You will need evidence that proves you are in a lot of debt that is keeping you in a financial bind. It will be up to the judge overseeing your case in bankruptcy court as to whether or not you are approved for debt forgiveness. The entire process will be more in your favor when there is a lawyer assisting you.

Before taking your case to court, your lawyer will calculate your income to debt ratio. He or she will also observe your pay statements to determine if you are below the medium income that is in place for your state. You must give your lawyer copies of the debts you owe so they can be used in court as evidence. If the lawyer believes that you can settle your debts without filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, he or she may recommend bill consolidation as an alternative. If you file for bankruptcy, it will remain on your credit for 10 years.

If bankruptcy is the most ideal solution and you are approved for it, a judge will place a trustee over your case to speak with your creditors. You will not have to pay any money out of your pocket, but some of your assets can be sold for debt settlement if they are not exempt. A lawyer can assist with fighting to keep all of your assets.

How Much Does a Bankruptcy Lawyer Charge on Average?

Expect to pay your lawyer an hourly rate of $100 or more, but it is possible to get charged a flat fee as well. You will also be responsible for paying a court fee in the amount of $299. The overall price will be based on the complexity of your case and how much labor your lawyer has to put in on your behalf. For more information, contact a professional like those at Bauer & French Attorneys at Law.

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About Me

When you sell stock photography, there is always a risk that someone may use your image in a way that you didn't permit in the licensing agreement. When that happens, you need to protect your licensing rights. The best way to do that is to work with a copyright and licensing attorney. I've spent a lot of time researching fair use and licensing restrictions. I hope that the information here helps you to not only understand your rights as the creator but also to learn how to document and enforce those rights and seek legal resolutions when they are violated.