Fort Hood Bankruptcy Attorney with Experience Representing Military Members

The unfortunate reality of the present economic situation and the financial fallout of the pandemic is that many people, both civilians and members of the U.S. military, are facing tough economic times. 

If you are a member of the U.S. Armed Forces, you should know that declaring bankruptcy is an option that is available to you if you are struggling financially. There are a few special regulations that directly pertain to members of the U.S. military who file a bankruptcy case, so it=s important to be represented by an attorney familiar with our nation=s bankruptcy laws if you are considering filing a bankruptcy case. 

If you are a member of the U.S. Armed Forces and are planning to file for bankruptcy, the experienced bankruptcy attorney Erin B. Shank can help. She has the knowledge and experience to advise you of your legal rights and responsibilities regarding bankruptcy. She can help usher you through the process if you choose to have her represent you.  You can contact us today for a free case evaluation to learn more. 

What Is the Difference Between Bankruptcy for Military  Members vs. Civilians?

There are several advantages available to members of the military and veterans that are not available to civilians under the Bankruptcy Code.  Certain types of income that active duty soldiers or veterans receive are not counted when considering whether an individual qualifies to file a Chapter 7 bankruptcy.  These means more of these folks, especially veterans and disabled veterans, can qualify for Chapter 7 relief.  

Active Duty Military Members and Contractors have Security Clearance issues that are not concerns to our civilian clients.  Erin is familiar with these Security Clearance issues and has actually helped several of her clients obtain Security Clearances or get their Security Clearances restored.  

How Our Fort Hood Military Bankruptcy Lawyer Can Help

At Erin B. Shank, P.C., an experienced bankruptcy lawyer can help you with your bankruptcy case in a variety of ways, including:  

• Thoroughly evaluating your case and reviewing your unique circumstances
• Offering you legal guidance on bankruptcy law, alternatives to bankruptcy, and your legal options going forward
• Helping you understand the special rules and regulations that govern members of the military who file for bankruptcy protection
• Drafting your bankruptcy paperwork and ensuring you have all of the correct documentation timely and correctly filed in your bankruptcy case. 
• Filing your bankruptcy petition and all necessary documents in order for your case to be successful
• Representing you during your meeting with the Bankruptcy Trustee and all court appearances that may be required in your case
• Fighting tirelessly for your rights as an active duty member or veteran of the U.S. armed forces

We understand that bankruptcy can be complicated and overwhelming. Let us take some of that burden off your shoulders by guiding you through the entire process and providing the support you need during this difficult time.  Erin is married to a veteran.  Both her father and father in law were veterans. Erin comes from a military family and is always honored to represent veterans and active duty soldiers find honorable solutions to their overwhelming debt. 

Disabled Veterans

Disabled veterans who acquired more than 30% of their  debt while on active duty or conducting homeland defense activity may qualify for Chapter 7 regardless of their income level.  Erin is very familiar with this exception in the Bankruptcy law and the extra paperwork that must be filed in order for these types of cases to be successfully filed and all of the Disabled Veterans= debts discharged.   

National Guard

Members of the National Guard may qualify for the income  exemption if they were on active duty or participated in homeland defense activities continuously for a minimum of 90 days and file bankruptcy within 18 months after leaving active duty.

Can I File for Bankruptcy While in the Military?

You can file for bankruptcy while you are serving in the military. All members of the U.S. Armed Forces have the same legal rights as civilians under our bankruptcy laws.  Members of the military struggle financially, much like the civilians they protect, and no one is exempt from financial hardship. 

Some members of the military who are struggling financially may be apprehensive about filing for bankruptcy. There is no shame in doing what is necessary to protect yourself and your family. It is far preferable for you to stabilize your financial situation than to struggle under the weight of insurmountable debt. By filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you could clear away these debts and emerge with a better financial outlook.

Why Filing for Bankruptcy May Affect Your Security Clearance

While your security clearance could potentially be affected by filing for bankruptcy, numerous factors will also be considered, including your financial situation before filing for bankruptcy, your work ethic, and more. Being deep in debt can imperil your security clearance too, so it may be better to file for bankruptcy than to continue in financial distress.

A knowledgeable attorney can help you navigate the complex bankruptcy process and work to ensure that your debts are dismissed in full. 

Contact Our Fort Hood Bankruptcy Attorney Experience with representing Military Members Today

Erin B. Shank has been practicing exclusively bankruptcy law in Texas for 40 years. She provides knowledgeable,  legal representation for military service members, veterans and their families. Her goal is to help you get a fresh financial start. She understands that being in the military is stressful enough without adding seemingly insurmountable debt to the situation. She will work hard to protect you and your loved ones during this challenging time. Contact us today to discuss your situation and options.

Contact us online or by calling (254) 690-4110 today!