Imminent “Gotcha” for Bankruptcy Filers

Steven J. Richardson | February 22, 2010

One of the requirements put into the bankruptcy code in 2005 was something called “means testing.”  It was meant as a way to force upper income debtors into chapter 13 repayment plans.  In a nutshell, it involves taking your total gross income for the six months prior to your bankruptcy filing, doubling it, and then [...]

Avoid the Debt Forgiveness Tax Trap

Steven J. Richardson | February 18, 2010

There is no question that bankruptcy should always be a last resort; you should try everything you can (outside raiding an IRA or pension) before filing.  Many people do a debt consolidation through a home equity loan; others are able to make deals with their creditors for either a payment plan or a discounted lump [...]

Trust Fund Tax Debt Means Big Trouble

Steven J. Richardson | February 15, 2010

Tax debt is often a driving force behind the filing of a bankruptcy, either for individuals, or a business.  If it is income tax for individuals, it can be discharged in bankruptcy if it is more than three years old and meets certain requirements under the bankruptcy code.  However, one kind of tax debt that [...]

Where You Are Driving is Key in DWI/Refusal Cases

Steven J. Richardson | February 9, 2010

As I have posted in the past, refusing to give two breath samples after being arrested for drunk driving can have serious consequences.  Under New Jersey law, more specifically NJSA 39:4-50.2, a driver is deemed to have consented to providing said samples if he or she operates a motor vehicle on a public road, street, [...]

Be Careful When You Co-Sign

Steven J. Richardson | February 8, 2010

I have been helping people deep in debt to get a fresh start in bankruptcy for over 18 years now, and my clients most often find themselves in financial straits due to out-of-control credit card debt, medical bills (whether they have health insurance or not, which is another story!), job loss, divorce, and the like.  [...]