Are you facing the challenge of dealing with both bankruptcy and divorce?
This complex situation can confuse what is best for your long-term interests. But you can start to unwind this tangle of laws with some essential advice on how to handle marital debts, and legal counsel.
The intertwining of bankruptcy law and divorce can create many legal complexities. Uncover crucial insights into protecting your rights, minimizing financial losses, and ensuring a fair resolution below.
How To Handle Marital Debts: Bankruptcy and Divorce
Marital debts are typically joint liabilities, meaning both spouses are responsible for repayment. Examples can range from the balance on a credit card to a mortgage loan. These problems can be the result of recessions and economic strain, emergency bills, or bad spending habits.
In a divorce, the division of marital debts can vary depending on the jurisdiction and the specific circumstances. This is very similar to the division of assets. In general, there are two main approaches:
- Equitable Distribution: Many jurisdictions follow the principle of equitable distribution. This method does not necessarily mean a 50/50 split. Instead, the division depends on each spouse’s financial situation and needs.
- Agreement Between Spouses: In some cases, spouses may choose to negotiate and reach a settlement through mediation. This approach allows them to have more control over the outcome.
Regardless of how debts divide, it does not absolve either spouse from their obligation to repay. If one spouse fails to uphold their responsibility, it can still affect the other spouse’s credit.
Community Property States vs. Equitable Distribution States
Community property and equitable distribution are two distinct approaches to dividing marital assets and debts in a divorce. Here’s a brief explanation of each:
Community Property States
Community property states consider marital assets to belong equally to both spouses. It does not matter who owns the titles or who incurred the debt.
Upon divorce, these states typically require an equal division of assets and debts acquired. Community property states include the following:
Equitable Distribution States
In equitable distribution states, assets and debts get split in a manner that is fair but not necessarily equal. Factors such as each spouse’s financial contributions, earning capacity, and individual needs matter.
Equitable distribution states provide more flexibility in dividing assets and debts. Consequently, the majority of states follow this approach.
Divorce and Bankruptcy: Timing Matters
The timing of filing for bankruptcy with a divorce can have significant implications. For example you might wonder how your retirement accounts would be protected via exemptions. Here’s an overview of the possibilities for each scenario:
Filing for Bankruptcy Before a Divorce
Filing for bankruptcy before a divorce can create a clean financial slate for both parties. It may simplify asset division by eliminating or reducing shared debts. However, bankruptcy does not resolve issues related to child support, custody, alimony, or the division of non-dischargeable debts.
The benefits and drawbacks of each timing scenario depend on the specific circumstances. Filing for bankruptcy before a divorce can make things simpler. Nevertheless, it may not address ongoing obligations related to support payments or debts in the divorce decree.
Filing for Bankruptcy During a Divorce
Filing for bankruptcy during a divorce can complicate matters and delay proceedings.
Bankruptcy proceedings can put an automatic stay on divorce proceedings. As a result, the family court cannot take action until the bankruptcy resolves. This scenario can also impact property division because the assets and debts will change.
Filing for bankruptcy during a divorce may require coordination and cooperation between judiciaries. There are a few circumstances where this decision works to your advantage. Moreover, there is a substantial need for communication between clients and their attorneys which can get complicated.
Filing for Bankruptcy After a Divorce
Filing for bankruptcy after a divorce can relieve the burden of overwhelming financial responsibilities. However, certain obligations will remain. For instance, child support or alimony does not discharge through bankruptcy.
Post-divorce bankruptcy can even impact the division of property and debts. In some cases, it may be necessary to seek a modification of the divorce decree to reflect the new financial circumstances.
Generally, filing for bankruptcy after a divorce lets you focus solely on your situation. However, it may not impact the division of property and debts outlined in the divorce decree and other obligations.
Schedule a Consultation with a Local Attorney
Navigating the intersection of bankruptcy and divorce law requires careful consideration and expert guidance. Handling marital debt of any kind is difficult. The type of separation or divorce you are seeking can also make a crucial impact. Child custody arrangements and modifications can further complicate your situation. The complexities of these legal matters necessitate the support of a competent local attorney. They can provide personalized advice and help you make educated decisions.
Don’t face the challenges of divorce and bankruptcy alone. Your financial well-being and peace of mind are too important to leave to chance.
Ask us for a referral to a bankruptcy or divorce attorney today. You only have to complete a quick online form or call (866) 345-6784!
