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BANKRUPTCY

Chapter 7 and 13

         A lot of people believe that by filing a bankruptcy, they will lose everything they own.   This is not true.  

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         A Chapter 7 bankruptcy lets you get rid of most all of your debt unsecured debt which includes credit cards and medical bills.  You may keep your house and cars so long the creditor agrees which usually means that you are current with your payments.  Under Georgia law you have exemptions that cover most people’s homes, furnishing, cars, etc. and most people do not lose anything in the bankruptcy.

 

         For those people who need to keep a car or house, but are behind in their payments a Chapter 13 bankruptcy is available.  A Chapter 13 bankruptcy, also known as reorganization bankruptcy, is a chapter in the Bankruptcy Code that allows people to reorganize their debt into a more manageable repayment plan that typically lasts between three to five years. That means people are given the chance to get current on mortgage payments and car loans and not worry about catching up on bills or being foreclosed upon or have the car repossessed.  

Social Security/ Disability

          Disability benefits are paid under two programs by the Social Security Administration: (1) Social Security Disability Insurance which pays benefits to you if you are disabled under Social Security if you are insured, meaning that you worked long enough and paid Social Security taxes and (2) Supplemental Security Income which pays benefits to you if you are disabled under Social Security law based on financial need.

 

          You can apply for Social Security Disability online or on the telephone with Social Security.  If Social Security denies your claim or you disagree with any part of their decision, you may appeal the decision. You have 60 days from the time you receive your denial letter to file an appeal.  About 65% of all applicants are denied benefits the first time they apply for Social Security Disability benefits.

 

          The appeal consists of filing for “reconsideration" of your denial and, if denied again, requesting a hearing with an Administrative Law Judge who hears nothing but Social Security claims.

 

           You are entitled to have an attorney represent you with your application and appeal.  Most people apply themselves without an attorney as Social Security will help get your records at the initial application.  If you are denied at the initial application you should hire an attorney to handle your appeal as it is a legal process.   J. Michael Greene has over 30 years of experience in handling Social Security cases.

Social Security & Disability

Trust, Wills, & Probate

Having a Last Will and Testament assures that those you wish inherit at your passing.  From a simple Last Will and Testament to a complex family trust, preparation in advance is critical.  We also provide a Georgia Advance Directive for Healthcare (formerly a Living Will) and a Financial Power of Attorney which greatly reduces the red tape and stress during a last illness.

Trusts, Wills, Probate
Criminal Law & DUI
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