FAQs
Smith, Pappas & Jones, Ltd.
Have a law-related question? We have the answer. Check out these FAQs and give us a call today for more information!
Can I keep assets like my home or vehicle if I file for bankruptcy?
It's likely that you can. In our experience, however, if you possess more equity (your assets minus your liabilities) than Illinois provides for protections, you may be required to pay back to some of your creditors over 36-60 months.
If you're seeking legal help, whether from bankruptcy lawyers or local workers comp attorneys in Mattoon, IL, reach out to Smith, Pappas & Jones, Ltd for comprehensive guidance that prioritizes your financial health.Can a declaration of bankruptcy stop the foreclosure of my home?
Yes, it can. According to our experts, you can halt foreclosure anytime before the sheriff's sale of your property by filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy and proposing that the mortgage arrearage, along with any accrued fees, be paid over a three-to-five-year period.
If you have questions about declaring bankruptcy, or questions for local workers comp attorneys in Mattoon, IL, contact us today for expert legal guidance.Am I allowed to keep certain debt when filing for bankruptcy?
You are not allowed to keep an unsecured debt, like a current credit card used for household expenses. For secured debts, such as mortgages and vehicle notes, there is often a reaffirmation process available. If debtors can show that their budget provides for payment of a secured note, the court will allow for reaffirmation.
However, the Southern District of Illinois recently implemented a new process which requires a court hearing to examine debtors about the debts they wish to reaffirm before determining whether reaffirmation is appropriate.
If you need legal guidance, whether about managing debts or finding local workers comp attorneys in Mattoon, IL, contact us for expert legal representation.What happens during bankruptcy proceedings if I co-signed for a debt with a family member?
The person that you co-signed with will remain liable for the note. If the note is collateralized by property (like a vehicle or home), then the co-signer will almost certainly be able to retain the property as long as they remain current on the obligations of the note.
If you're financially struggling and need legal representation, Smith, Pappas & Jones, Ltd is here to help you. Whether you're in need of bankruptcy lawyers or local workers comp attorneys in Mattoon, IL, we're ready to provide comprehensive services.Should I transfer, sell, or give away my titles, deeds, or other valuable property prior to filing for bankruptcy?
This is not required, but if you do transfer any assets, ensure that the transfer is for fair market value. The process may also be scrutinized if you transfer your asset to a friend or family member.
Our team can attest that in Illinois, a four-year look-back period provides a Chapter 7 trustee the right to take possession of property transferred away for less than fair market value. It is customary for those trustees to complete public record searches for title or deed transfers. Furthermore, both personal and real property protections apply only to property in the debtor's possession. Transferring property away can therefore worsen the circumstances of bankruptcy.
If you're struggling to manage a bankruptcy declaration, Smith, Pappas & Jones, Ltd is here to provide expert legal services. Whether you need advice on transferring assets or you're looking for local workers comp attorneys in Mattoon, IL, we will ensure you receive compassionate, community-minded legal support.What is workers' compensation?
Workers' compensation is insurance that provides medical benefits and wage replacement to employees who are injured or made ill in the course of their employment.
If you're in need of local workers comp attorneys in Mattoon, IL, reach out to us today for comprehensive legal services that will ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.Who is eligible for workers' compensation?
Most employees are covered from their first day of work. According to the Insurance Information Institute, 90% of people in the workforce are protected by worker's compensation insurance. However, independent contractors and volunteers are typically not covered.
If you need legal assistance from local workers comp attorneys in Mattoon, IL, reach out to our team. We will always advocate for your best interests.What types of injuries are covered by workers' compensation protections?
Any injury or illness that occurs as a direct result of job duties or workplace conditions, including repetitive stress injuries and occupational diseases, is covered under workers' compensation.
If you're in need of local workers comp attorneys in Mattoon, IL, reach out to Smith, Pappas & Jones, Ltd for comprehensive services that will ensure you receive fair-minded legal representation.How do I file a claim for workers' compensation?
The best strategy for filing a claim is to report the injury to your employer immediately. Then, seek medical attention, and complete the required claim forms provided by your employer or state agency.
If you're looking for local workers comp attorneys in Mattoon, IL, then reach out to us today. We will always advocate for your best interests; we even provide a no-win, no-fee option for workers' compensation cases, demonstrating our confidence in our ability to secure favorable outcomes.Do I need to pay for medical treatment for injuries or illnesses related to my workers' compensation claim?
No, you do not. All approved medical expenses related to the workplace injury or injury are covered by workers' compensation insurance.
If you have questions about workers' compensation and are searching for local workers comp attorneys in Mattoon, IL, then reach out to our team today. We provide exceptional legal services to our clients and will advocate for you to secure fair compensation.



