Experienced bankruptcy Attorney James F. Hausen has handled over 2,000 cases. He does only consumer bankruptcies and has filed thousands of them for residents of Northeast Ohio. At Hausen Law, we offer our clients the option to meet with us in person, by telephone or via video conference. Please contact us if you’d like to discuss your options.
James F. Hausen is happy to announce his inaugural book, The Truth About Bankruptcy In Ohio.
In its pages he relates specific examples of the types of situations in which bankruptcy can turn a person’s life around, helping them get on the track to financial stability. If you or someone you know is struggling with debt and aren’t clear on how bankruptcy can help, pick up a copy of The Truth About Bankruptcy In Ohio.
How much does it cost to file for bankruptcy? The cost of filing for bankruptcy in Ohio can be influenced by multiple factors: the type of bankruptcy you are filing, attorney fees, where you live, the complexity of your case, and the details of your income and debts.
Money issues and financial stress are often at the heart of the disputes that bring a couple to divorce. So it’s no surprise that a couple could find themselves facing both divorce and bankruptcy. We’re here to share our experience-based thoughts on the various considerations to keep in mind if you are facing this situation.
At Hausen Law, our team of Ohio bankruptcy lawyers knows bankruptcy inside and out, and we’re here to share our experience-based thoughts on whether bankruptcy or debt settlement is best.
Maybe you’re just casually wondering if there is a limit to the number of times someone can file for bankruptcy in Ohio. Or maybe you’ve faced bankruptcy in the past or are in the midst of a case right now, and wonder if you’d still...
When you slip up or bills push you to bankruptcy, you could easily become overwhelmed and feel the heavy weight of shame. This is a mix of lived experience, common sense, and readily available expert advice that anyone can find. We’re just combining it all here as a resource to help clients and others who are currently struggling.
Here’s what you need to know about filing for bankruptcy in Ohio as a retiree.
There are numerous ways to slip up prior to fully understanding the bankruptcy process, and your friends at Hausen Law are here to help you avoid those pitfalls.
Has the economy and cost of living paired with increased debt made your financial situation seem hopeless? Or maybe mounting medical bills have left you buried. That’s why the bankruptcy provision was developed–to help everyday people and...
The number of people filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy across the United States has risen at a drastic rate. According to statistics, approximately 1.5 million people file for bankruptcy every year, and 97% of those filings are individuals.
Whether or not you qualify for bankruptcy will depend on your individual situation. Find out what factors you need to consider before deciding to file.
While it seems like a distant, bad memory at the moment, for some time during the height of the pandemic, in-person court hearings for bankruptcy proceedings were stalled. Filing for bankruptcy online was the only option. But now that things are much as they were pre-pandemic, what is the state of online bankruptcy filings?
Ohio residents who are stuck in a cycle of credit card debt are becoming prime targets for debt relief scam artists who know exactly which buttons to push. We’ll also offer another, better option to give you the debt relief you’re looking for.
As seasoned bankruptcy attorneys, we can help clients who have already been divorced prior to filing for bankrupcy. Let’s uncover the answer to this common bankruptcy question, centering our reply around chapter 7 and chapter 13 bankruptcy, the most common options for an individual in financial straits. For those whose unsecured debt exceeds standard limits, chapter 11 is also an option.
While inflation has seesawed over the past few years, and has dropped again this year, headed towards pre-pandemic lows, it could be that the financial strain is only now taking its toll. Truth be told, it’s been decades since we experienced those highs.
Divorce and bankruptcy can be difficult and arduous paths, whether they’re taken jointly or individually. If you find yourself divorced and learn that your ex-spouse is filing for chapter 7 or chapter 13 bankruptcy, your first thought might be whether...
Here at Hausen Law, our experienced chapter 7 bankruptcy lawyers have heard it all, and we’re ready to set the record straight.
Naturally, you don’t want to negatively impact the person who helped you out by co-signing some of your debt. At Hausen Law our bankruptcy attorneys understand the struggle and they’re here with sound advice and what to know about filing for bankruptcy in Ohio, especially when you have a co-signer.
Perhaps you’ve heard about credit counseling that is required after a bankruptcy case, but you may not be familiar with counseling being a prerequisite prior to filing bankruptcy in Ohio. Today we’re answering that question. So, do you need to take a credit counseling program in order to file for bankruptcy in Ohio?
Whether you expect to get a refund or you owe, and whether you are up-to-date on tax payments or not, there’s a lot to consider when it comes to the wide world of taxes and bankruptcy. We'll break it down in this article.
Now that you're free from debt, what's next? How do you improve your credit and handle money better? At Hausen Law, Ohio bankruptcy attorney James Hausen and his team offer help with practical advice and tools.
If you’re facing eviction and find yourself in tough financial circumstances, you could be wondering if filing for bankruptcy in Ohio could help your situation. In this article we’ll uncover the truth about eviction and both chapter 7 and chapter 13 bankruptcy.
Individuals who file for bankruptcy in Ohio are entitled to exemptions on property that they need to rebuild their financial health. We’ll discuss what the average Ohioan can expect as exempt property in a chapter 7 or chapter 13 bankruptcy filing.
At Hausen Law our bankruptcy attorneys understand, and we’re here to help explain what to know if you’re facing both foreclosure and bankruptcy.
Financial struggles that prevent you from paying bills in full and on time can quickly lead to threats and notices from your local gas, water, telephone or electricity provider. At Hausen Law, we understand what you’re up against. Here’s our best advice for how to deal with threats of utility shutoff when you’re already struggling.
Plenty of clients wonder how a chapter 7 or chapter 13 bankruptcy affects alimony. Here we’ll get into what to expect.
After working for years–or a lifetime–to accrue the funds that will carry you comfortably through retirement, the thought of losing these is frightening. In this article we’ll lay out what you need to know about retirement accounts and bankruptcy.
James F. Hausen is happy to announce his inaugural book, The Truth About Bankruptcy In Ohio. In its pages he relates specific examples of the types of situations in which bankruptcy can turn a person’s life around, helping them get on the track to financial stability. If you or someone you know is struggling with debt and aren’t clear on how bankruptcy can help, pick up a copy of The Truth About Bankruptcy In Ohio.
Recovering financially from the inevitable credit hit after filing for chapter 7 or chapter 13 bankruptcy in Ohio can be a difficult task. That’s why we’re here to help. Let’s see how using financial tools to your advantage can jumpstart credit recovery.
Check out our top tips for building good financial habits and increasing financial literacy to get back on the right track. Stay tuned to learn how to use financial tools to your best advantage.
Can I file for bankruptcy after the holidays because of credit card debt?
This vital number is at the heart of any bankruptcy proceeding. Here’s the truth about household size and bankruptcy from a chapter 7 bankruptcy lawyer.
Could there be ways that a bankruptcy filing could be strategic? The short answer: yes! In this article we’ll get into some of the immediate and long term advantages and benefits that a bankruptcy attorney can help you to take advantage of.
Some of the root causes of bankruptcy are out of the average person’s control, and more often than not several factors combine to create a financial circumstance that feels hopeless. But this is why bankruptcy was created–it’s a safeguard and a way to start anew. Here are the top 5 reasons that people find themselves facing bankruptcy.
If you find yourself staring down insurmountable debt, a natural reaction could be to throw whatever money you do have toward one or more creditors in a desperate attempt to solve the problem. The sooner you make one source of debt disappear, the quicker you can get on the road to financial recovery, right? Well, as with so many things, the answer is that it depends on several factors–a major one being if you end up needing to or are already planning to file for bankruptcy.
You may be wondering if or how a bankruptcy record could affect your future employment opportunities. Taking a comprehensive approach to your current and future financial and employment situation is always a good idea. But before you get overwhelmed, know that with some steady legal advice and a professional by your side, you can successfully navigate through.
There are several reasons why a person may decide to file for chapter 13 bankruptcy above any other type. Put simply, if you find yourself in what feels like insurmountable debt, but your income level and monthly disposable income disqualify you from filing for chapter 7 bankruptcy, then chapter 13 bankruptcy is generally your best option.
If you’re facing bankruptcy in the near future, it could sound like a great idea to take off and enjoy life for a bit, before things get real––the complexities of bankruptcy can weigh anyone down. But is it okay to head out on a vacation before filing for bankruptcy? There are some key factors that surround this question, and we’re here to explain.
If you have the dream of owning your own home, but you’ve just been through a chapter 7 bankruptcy, that goal could feel a long way off. We want you to be sure of one thing: all hope is not lost. In this blog article, learn some key steps to take if homeownership is something you want to achieve in the future.
Here at Hausen Law, LLC we work day in and out with folks who are going through bankruptcy, so we usually share information directly related to their concerns. But there is another side to this coin: the creditors. So today we’re going to focus on creditors’ bankruptcy questions, one of which is why it can take so long to receive their chapter 11 bankruptcy payout.
Some folks think of chapter 11 bankruptcy as a quick-fix solution while others assume the worst. For business owners, that could mean missing out on a chance for debt relief. So let’s get to the bottom of some commonly held notions and find the truth amid the misconceptions.
If your business is in a place where bankruptcy seems like the best way forward, it’s likely that you’ll be looking at a chapter 11 filing. Unlike chapters 7 and 13, chapter 11 bankruptcy is a way for businesses of all sizes to reorganize debt and initiate a plan to repay creditors, all while keeping their doors open.
Filing for bankruptcy at any time in your life can be a stressful, emotionally-taxing experience. But it’s never more difficult to take the bankruptcy route than when you also have long-term goals of buying a home or making another major purchase. You likely realize that bankruptcy can affect your credit score, but how much, and for how long?
More and more individuals are finding it difficult to both support themselves and pay off the debt that helped them get an education. This friction leads many to wonder about student loan debt in bankruptcy – what are the guidelines, and is it even possible? At Hausen Law, LLC our Northeast Ohio Bankruptcy Attorneys can help you tackle this common concern.
If finances are tight and you need some cash in hand to take care of bills or necessities, a payday loan might seem like an easy answer. But if things snowball and you see no way out, filing for bankruptcy might seem like your only way forward. Let’s look into the details and learn whether an Ohio bankruptcy filing could help.
When bankruptcy seems like the only way through, you’ll likely have a lot of questions. And whether you opt for chapter 7 bankruptcy or chapter 13 bankruptcy, a big question will be whether you can discharge, or eliminate your personal loans as part of the filing process. As always, there are exceptions and details to discuss, and we'll help clear them in this article.
Whether your business is a large corporation or a smaller enterprise, Chapter 11 bankruptcy could be a beneficial move to keep it alive during an economic crisis. In this article, we will focus on how a Chapter 11 filing can help your business recover.
All across Ohio, courts continue to be closed to the public due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. But many of our clients still need to initiate or finalize bankruptcy proceedings. To ensure that they are safe and well taken care of during these difficult times, increased use of technology is vital. So we’re here to explain the ins and outs of virtual court hearings and to put your mind at ease.
If you find yourself in a place where bankruptcy is the only way forward, you might wonder how the process will affect your personal belongings, especially your car. Here we will discuss the variables that come into play along with some smart steps and strategies to help you keep your car when filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy.
If you find yourself in a place where bankruptcy is the only way forward, you might wonder how the process will affect your personal belongings, especially your car. Here we will discuss the variables that come into play along with some smart steps and strategies to help you keep your car when filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy.
Sometimes it gets to a point where you are unable to pay your bills and are also unable to service your obligations. In this guide, we’ll take a look at the benefits and disadvantages of bankruptcy and debt consolidation to help you make a better choice for your financial well-being.
Some who have completed Chapter 7 bankruptcy still deal with calls from creditors. Find out what you can do to stop the harassment.
Many wonder what comes after Chapter 7 bankruptcy discharge. Find out how to make the most of your benefits of the fresh start in both the short term and the long term.
The law in Ohio states that you will be eligible to file for bankruptcy under Chapter 7 if your current annual earnings fall below the median earnings of a household that is similar in size to yours.
You probably have a lot of questions about bankruptcy like: Will you lose your house? How much cash can you keep when filing Chapter 7 in Ohio? We have information about the exemptions you are allowed to have here in Ohio when you file Chapter 7.
For those who were in the midst of a bankruptcy proceeding or who now see bankruptcy as their only way forward, questions about how COVID-19 will change the immediate future could loom large.
Filing for bankruptcy can seem to be a confusing or even frustrating process. Gain a better understanding of this process and hopefully eliminate some of the frustration.
Find out if your cell phone is considered an asset during the bankruptcy process.
Whether you file for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13, the one thing that is universal is that you will have to prove your income. For people who work as an employee and get a W-2 that is not too hard. However, for independent contractors or the self-employed, proving your income may be a little trickier.
If you recently went through a bankruptcy, and you need to know the date of your bankruptcy discharge, read about a few different things you can do to find it.
Learn about the differences between a joint account vs. an authorized user as well as the implications that Chapter 7 bankruptcy can have on either type of account.
Some people are apprehensive about having to appear at the bankruptcy court. Learn more about the 341 meeting so that you can allay your fears.
Find out if you need to include VA Disability payments on the means test.
Dealing with illness and injury can be stressful and debilitating. The frustrations are made worse by unexpected medical bills.
Many people’s fear of bankruptcy is based on what they’ve heard about the consequences that may follow. Thankfully, these fears are often unfounded.
We've compiled some cost data about Ohio bankruptcies so that you can get an idea of how much yours might cost to file.
You may have filed for bankruptcy in the past and may find yourself in a situation where you need to file a second time, but don’t know if you can or not. Read on to find out your options.
Tax time is never the most pleasurable part of spring. Read our blog post to learn what you can do if it is determined that you owe taxes, but you are unable to pay them.
When someone is struggling with the amount of debt they are in, it may be the best decision to file for bankruptcy and look into the legal representation available to make sure that you are taking the right path.
The bankruptcy means test is not a simple form, and many people make mistakes on the form, therefore being denied or delaying their bankruptcy. Learn some of the common mistakes of the bankruptcy means test to avoid in order to successfully file for Chapter 13 bankruptcy.
Are you considering filing bankruptcy but aren't sure if that's the best thing for you? Learn more about the two most common types of bankruptcy, Chapter 7 and Chapter 13.
Each bankruptcy option serves a unique purpose. Find out which one might be better for you.
While bankruptcy can eliminate some types of debt, not all types of debt are eliminated. Keep reading to learn more.
In Chapter 7 bankruptcy the automatic stay prevents any lawsuit and any action on your property. The trustee will then sell your property to settle your debts. This article describes Chapter 7 bankruptcy, its rules, and who is eligible for relief under the bankruptcy code.
The decision to file bankruptcy is a serious one that should only be undertaken after carefully considering all the implications.
Foreclosure can be a tough situation to face, particularly in the Akron, Canton, and Wooster areas of Ohio. If you are in a challenging financial position such that your house is being foreclosed on, it’s unlikely you’ll have enough funds to pay the reinstatement fees, attorney’s fees, and other things required to halt a foreclosure.
A Chapter 7 bankruptcy—commonly referred to as a “liquidation” bankruptcy—is usually the simplest form of bankruptcy. When filing a 7, the debtor must first pass a means test requirement.
When you decide to file for bankruptcy, you’re going to be facing a few decisions to make. One such decision is exactly what type of bankruptcy you want to file for. There are two common types—Chapter 7 and 13—as well as others (such as Chapter 11) that are outside the scope of this blog. Most likely you will be deciding between a 7 and 13. To help you make your choice, here are a few key differences between the two.
Sometimes, even if you have made all the right choices, bad things just happen to you. Perhaps you made some investments that didn’t pan out. Or, perhaps you went through a divorce and saw your income reduced. Or maybe you were unfortunate enough to suffer a catastrophic illness or injury and now you are swimming in medical bills
You want to file chapter 13 and you can't afford your house payments. You also want to move out of the house and be not responsible for the maintenance and the HOA fees on it.
Once in a while, a prospective client will tell me that they are receiving an inheritance and they want to file for bankruptcy.
Sometimes I receive a phone call from a person stating "I want to file a chapter 7. What are your fees?" They ask the question as if they know for sure they will file a chapter 7. I then explain to them I know nothing about them.
Why should I file Chapter 13 if I was forced into it due to disposable income?
Lately in the field of bankruptcy attorneys, I have noticed a lot of attorneys are starting to advertise cheap attorney fees in the Akron, Canton, Cleveland, Wooster, New Philadelphia area. But is cheaper necessarily better?
Sometimes a client comes in for a bankruptcy consultation and during the consultation I find out that part of the reason they have a hard time making ends meet is they have a second mortgage on their house
In our last blog, we talked about how filing for bankruptcy can actually get rid of some of your taxes. But what if the taxes that would be discharged in your bankruptcy already have a lien filed against you?
Let's take a look at what can be done with tax debts in bankruptcy.
It is a new year. The holiday season is over. So guess what is next? TAX SEASON!
I failed the Means Test. Does that mean I need to wait before filing Chapter 7?
We offer free initial consultations by phone or in person and in the evening (by phone) if you prefer.
Our fees are highly competitive and we offer special fee arrangements in appropriate cases. Call and we will be happy to tell you what your case would cost. You can retain us with only a small payment and you can make payments on the rest of the fee before the case is filed. YOU choose the amount and timing of the payments.
If you change your mind about filing before your case is filed, we will retain only the money you paid us that has been earned and will provide you with a complete accounting. The rest will be promptly refunded to you. To file your case, we require you to come to our office only once (to review and sign the papers to be filed). Many attorneys require three or more visits. Of course, you can visit us in person more often if you wish.
After your bankruptcy is over, we will continue to answer questions about your bankruptcy even years later at no extra charge. You can always call on us.
We offer an unusually high level of expertise in chapter 13 bankruptcies, having two employees (attorney and paralegal) who are experienced former employees of the Chapter 13 Trustee. This is an important advantage you will not find in other firms.
We do not try to sell you on bankruptcy. We explain your options and help you make the right decision. If you file, your case will be filed in the federal bankruptcy court, not in your local county court. And we promise you prompt, polite, professional service.
Since the 2005 bankruptcy code changes, it has become more difficult for Akron, Cleveland, Youngstown, and residents all over Northeast Ohio to file for bankruptcy. More people today are attempting to file on their own with do-it-yourself kits and end up regretting the decision of not hiring a locally experienced bankruptcy attorney. There are various types of bankruptcies which is why it is so essential to choose the right bankruptcy lawyer who will provide the kind of experience you need to handle your particular case and determine the proper bankruptcy type that would suit you best. James F. Hausen can educate you about what protection you need for your unique circumstances and work with you to reach the best solution.
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"I would 100% recommend this law firm! Communication is perfect with them, so easy to work with. They are never not there to answer you via email or text & walk you through anything. I loved the reminders of what needs done or the date it needs done by because I am so forgetful. I can't thank them enough."
~ Madeline Hoefler
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"James Hausen and his assistant Juliana are an excellent team and a joy to work with. They were both incredibly professional and able to explain everything regarding my case in plain English to help me navigate the confusing legal jargon. I cannot sing their praise enough so hopefully this review will suffice. They were even accommodating enough to set up forwarding on court documents to my out of state mailing address so that I would be informed every step of the way. 10/10 AAA+ service."
~ Sean
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"I have found Hausen Law LLC to be very helpful. Attorney Hausen is extremely kind, professional and willing to answer any and all question and is very considerate. Everyone in his practice is very knowledgeable and very helpful. I would recommend Hausen Law 100%."
~ Mary Lu
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