Debt Collectors! How Far is Too far?

Have you ever received a phone call from a debt collector?  If so you will know that they are pushy and sometimes just plain mean.    I have read horror stories about debt collectors harassing, yelling, cursing, and threatening patrons because they were late on their bills.

Yes, I understand that these patrons took out money, spent on a credit card, however in most cases the people had full intentions on paying the bill back. Sometimes, life just happens. Events happen that doesn't allow for the cable to be paid on time.  There is definitely no need for harassment over an unpaid bill.

This Article, encompasses everything that I was saying.  Debt Collectors are going crazy with the ways they are trying to get you to pay.

If you or someone you know is having financial difficulties let us help.  The Arroyo Law Firm is here to help ease your financial mind.


With one easy phone call we can sit down and work out a plan towards your financial freedom.

Regulation of Marketing of Financial products?

As a bankruptcy attorney, I have seen many clients in financial distress.  The economic downturn has hurt their piggy banks.   In 2007 or prior a lot of consumers were purchasing houses at an unbelievable  rate.  The real estate market was at an all time high, while more and more consumers were qualifying for home loans.

I think the government is taking a step in the right direction by creating the  Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB).  This Bureau was created to "Educate, Enforce and Study". The first task of the CFPB is discussed in this article.  They want to regulate how "non-banks" advertise.

While I believe it is important for "non-banks" to be regualted, I also feel BANKS need to be regulated as well. As I know from first hand experience that the traditional bank was giving out financial freedom to consumers who in a normal economy would not have qualified.

If you are one of those consumers, who is in need of a little help,  Please feel free to give the Arroyo Law Firm a call.  We offer free consultation, and can let you know your rights.

Money for the Pooch?

I find it interesting that you cannot leave your entire fortune to your animal.  This Article is an intersting take on whether your dog or any loved animal should get your money when you die. Not that I have any beloved animal that I am worried about, but I do have an awesome family that I want protected.

This gets me thinking about my family and what would happen if I die, and as an attorney I know I should have something in writing, as I want to make sure my kids are well protected in the event of my husband and my death.

So the question remains do you have your estate in order in case of the unthinkable?   Any estate planning attorney can help you set up a simple will that states what happens to your things (assets) if you were to pass on.

Many people say I don't need a will I do not have any money, but its not the money you need to worry about its the children, and the pets.

Student Loan Debt Non Dischargeable in Bankruptcy

In 2005, a Bill was passed that made it nearly impossible for student loan debt whether private or public to be discharged in bankruptcy.

As an Attorney law school is rather expensive, unless you were a lucky one on a full ride.  No matter who you are you are coming out of school with a nearly $100,000 or more in student loan debt.  That now even in this terrible economy is impossible to hide from.

I know many college graduates who have a bachelors, and even a masters or a doctorate but are unable to find work that is willing to pay them a decent salary.  Many lawyers I know that are freshly barred are working as legal assistance or secretaries.   This salary is not enough to pay the hefty student loan payment each month.

This article describes how a Bill has been brought forth that would make Private Student loan dischargeable in a bankruptcy just as any other consumer debt. In my opinion this Bill  is a great break through for some.  With the cost of the education on the rise, and the economy on the slump there has to be some relief, for those hefty private student loans.

Not that I believe people should get a free ride, but they should get the help they need when they are in a slump!  Bankruptcy is about starting over, getting a fresh start, and with Private Student Loan hanging over your head how is that a fresh start!

7 Myths to filing Bankruptcy

7 Myths to Filing Bankruptcy

1. My credit will be ruined: False,  It is true that filing for bankruptcy you will have a negative public record on your credit report.  However, often times when you have made the conscious decision to file for bankruptcy your credit is not in the best of conditions.  You probably have late payments, or even judgments against you.   Those who file for bankruptcy can expect to see an increase in their credit score a year after filing. 
2. I will never be able to have a credit card again:  False,  bankruptcy is getting rid of the debt from the past.  Banks may be more conscious of releasing large amount of credit your way, but many are willing to help you establish your credit.  This includes giving you low limit credit cards or having you establish a secured credit card.
3. I will lose everything if I file:   False, State bankruptcy laws prevent debtors from losing everything.  Each state has a set of exceptions that they are allowed to keep, after the bankruptcy is discharged.     
4. Because of the changes in law, bankruptcy is not an option: False, in 2005, the government made it more difficult to file for bankruptcy. However, just because it is more difficult does not make it impossible.  The laws are more stringent on who can file what chapter, but they do not restrict you from filing altogether.  Working with an attorney can help you determine which bankruptcy chapter is best for you.
5.  I filed bankruptcy in the past, I am ineligible to file again:  False, the law allows you to receive a chapter 7 discharge once every eight years.   For a Chapter 13, the law does not limit the number of times you can file, even if it is within 8 years of the prior bankruptcy.  
6. If I file for bankruptcy the creditors will call and harass me:  False,  filing for bankruptcy gives you an automatic relief from stay. In most cases this will allow you to get relief from the harassment of creditors.
7. I don’t need an attorney to file bankruptcy, I can do it myself, it is easy.  It is true that you do not have to hire an attorney to file bankruptcy but hiring an attorney can make the process a lot easier, and help you get your discharge faster.  An attorney knows the ins and outs of the bankruptcy process. They have computer applications that allow them to fill in the bankruptcy petitions and file in one easy process.  Filing for bankruptcy is very procedural, and the fail to file properly can get your bankruptcy case dismissed.

The information provided on this blog is offered for informational purposes only; it does not constitute legal advice. Candace J. Arroyo does not represent you based upon your visit or review of this blog.

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Our goal is to personally meet your needs and to obtain complete satisfaction with results achieved.  Our Attorney is dedicated to providing excellent customer care.

Arroyo Law firm is a  full-service law firm committed to protecting our clients' rights. We provide customized legal representation for each client, and we tailor our services to fit their specific legal needs.

Some of our areas of practice include:

♦ Bankruptcy                                
♦ Estate Planning                          
♦ Debt Negotiation
♦ Health Care Law                                         
♦ Consumer Rights                         
♦ DUI Defense                                                     
♦ Estate Planning                            
♦ Divorce

We Look Forward to assisting you with your legal needs