Friday, September 21, 2012

Sevierville Lawyer

      The Law Offices of Andrew E. Farmer located in Sevierville, Tennessee offer various areas of practice in order to serve our clients. Areas of practice include Criminal Defense, Personal Injury, Workers' Compensation, Bankruptcy, Divorce, and Child Custody. If you are seeking a lawyer who will give you straight answers, skilled negotiation, delivers aggressive representation in the courtroom, you can be confident with the attorneys of the Law Offices of Andrew E. Farmer.
      If you need help pertaining to Real Estate, The Farmer Firm, PLLC an Insured Real Estate Title Agency provides excellent service for the entire spectrum of real estate needs including: residential and commercial closings, title searches and insurance, foreclosure transactions, buy-sell agreements, commercial and residential leases, contracts, and deed preparation. Our objective is to help our customers meet their financial, business, and real estate ownership goals.
       Give us a call today at (865) 428-6737. We will be happy to help you with all your legal needs.

Thursday, September 20, 2012

Will I still receive Child Support from my Ex when they file for Bankruptcy?


          It is unfortunate that both bankruptcy and divorce are as prevalent as they are in modern society. Often times the two events occuring around the same time. Stress relating to debt and financial woes can certainly take its toll on any relationship and marriage is certainly not exempt from these strains. Who knows, maybe money can't buy happiness but it likely gives any relationship a good start. Child support is one aspect that is to be considered as a divorce occurs, but what about the considerations of child support as a bankruptcy occurs?
         If you are receiving child support and the paying parent is  considering filing bankruptcy, or... on the other hand if you are paying child support and you are considering filing bankruptcy yourself you are likely concerned with the effects that the bankruptcy will have upon your situation. The answer is that usually child support payments cannot be discharged through a bankruptcy. Bankruptcies do not act as a stay upon the modification or establishment of child suport obligations. Furthermore, bankruptcy will not discharge child support obligations that are in arrears.
          Child support and bankruptcy can create some very complex situations and it is important that you seek the advice and knowledge of competent legal counsel. The Law Office of Andrew E. Farmer is happy to help and consult you on these complex situations. The Law Office of Andrew E. Farmer proudly helps its clients in Sevier, Knox, Jefferson, Cocke, Hamblen, Washington, and Greene Counties. If you need advice or representation please call for a free consultation at (865) 428-6737.
         

Monday, April 2, 2012

Are online legal forms the same as the one's made by an attorney?

Many times people think that online legal forms are the same as those that an attorney would create for them.  I cannot stress enough that online legal forms are not a replacement for an experienced attorney who knows you and your case.  These types of forms are seen often in the realm of divorce filings.  Individuals who file paperwork that was simply a generic form printed from the internet do not have the same individualised and carefully tailored documents that best fit their situation.  If the court accepts your documents and signs your presented form order, then you will be bound by the language on that document.  You may not know the impact of specific terms or phrases that you have asked the court to accept.  When you are seeking a divorce, then let an experienced divorce attorney from the Law Offices of Andrew Farmer help you.  Do not trust generic online forms that are not designed and written specifically for you.  Contact our office at (865) 428-6737 today for your free consultation. 

Thursday, March 22, 2012

Injuries Covered by Tennessee Workman's Compensation

Often people ask what injuries can be covered by Tennessee worker's compensation.  An injury that is covered is not a question of what kind of injury but one of how the injury occurred.  Any injury, disease, condition, regardless of fault, may be covered so long as the injury occurred  "out of and in the course of employment." Therefore, even diseases or complications such as heart conditions and broken bones may be eligible for Tennessee worker's compensation.  It is important that if you have question regarding your rights under Tennessee worker's compensation that you contact an experienced, licensed and diligent attorney such as the Law Offices of Andrew E. Farmer.  Our offices may be contacted at (865) 428-6737.  Our skilled Tennessee worker's compensation attorneys practice in Sevier, Jefferson, Knox, Cocke, Blount and throughout all of East Tennessee.



Wednesday, March 14, 2012

Taxes and Divorce

With taxes being filed throughout this time of year, common problems arise in divorce and custody cases.  These are often disputes over who can claim the children and whether or not a spouse may file and sign the other spouse's taxes without his or her knowledge.  As it relates to who can claim the children, it is often a case by case situation.  If there is a question in your case, then ask your attorney before you file.  As for whether or not a spouse can sign the other's taxes without permission or knowledge, the answer is that no spouse may sign a tax return or any other document without first being that spouse's power of attorney. 

If you are looking for an experienced Tennessee family law attorney to fight for you and your children, then call The Law Offices of Andrew E. Farmer at (865) 428-6737 for your free consultation.  Our licensed Tennessee attorneys practice in Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg and throughout all of Sevier, Jefferson, Cocke, Blount and Knox counties. 

Tuesday, March 13, 2012

Office Pools for March Madness and the Law

Every year the calendar page turns to March and every year offices nationwide lose hours of productivity as people become wrapped up in March Madness and NCAA Basketball.  For a lot of offices this means tournament brackets and cash buy-ins.  What most people do not realize is that such office pools are illegal in Tennessee.  The participation in gambling can range from a Class C Misdemeanor (the lowest level criminal offense) to a Class E Felony for Aggravated Gambling Promotion.  Gambling is defined as risking anything of value for a profit whose return is to any degree contingent on chance, or any games of chance associated with casinos, including, but not limited to, slot machines, roulette wheels and the like. Gambling does not include a lawful business transaction, annual events operated for the benefit of charitable 501(c)(3) organizations, and the state lottery. 

So when thinking about putting cash in on your office bracket pool, remember you are violating the law.  Unless you picked Kentucky this year, you would probably just be wasting your money anyway. 

If you or your loved ones are facing criminal charges, do not gamble on your future.  Contact the licensed Tennessee attorneys of The Law Offices of Andrew E. Farmer at (865) 428-6737 for your free consultation today. Our experienced trial attorneys practice in Sevier, Jefferson, Knox, Cocke & Blount Counties.

Monday, March 5, 2012

Can a Credit Card Garnish My Wages For Not Paying?

In these tough financial times, it is common for individuals to fall behind or even making the difficult decision to not pay a credit card bill.  Many people struggle with the monthly decision over which bills they can afford to pay.  This leaves most people without the financial freedom of having their wages garnished by unpaid creditors.  While it is true that most credit card companies will push to have you agree to having their bills automatically be debited from your bank accounts, they cannot simply take the money from your hard earned paycheck without a court's order.  In order to garnish your wages, the creditor must first show the court that they have a valid debt owed to them, then they must get a judgment for that debt owed in order to begin garnishing your wages.  If you have received a judgment against you by a credit card, then let the Law Offices of Andrew E. Farmer assist in bringing an end to the collection calls and garnishments.  Our licensed Tennessee attorneys can assist in debt negotiation as well as filing in the Federal Bankruptcy Court.  Our Bankruptcy attorneys practice in Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg and throughout all of Sevier, Jefferson, Knox, Blount & Cocke Counties.  Call (865) 428-6737 to schedule your free consultation today. 

Thursday, March 1, 2012

Tennessee Texting While Driving Law

Since July 1st, 2009 the State of Tennessee has banned driving a vehicle while texting.  The language of the statute is written to include cell phone text messages as well as written message on a PDA, i.e. an email.  If found to be in violation of this statute, then an an individual would be facing a C misdemeanor which is punishable by a fine of no more than $50.00 and court costs of no more than $10.00.  While this may be an expensive text message, the real worry is that distracted driving is unsafe driving.  Many automobile injury cases arise each year from a driver focusing on his or her cell phone rather than the road.  If you were injured in an automobile accident by a distracted driver, then let The Law Offices of Andrew E. Farmer fight for the compensation you deserve.  Our office may be reached by calling (865) 328-6737.  Our licensed Tennessee personal injury attorneys practice in Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and throughout all of Sevier, Jefferson, Cocke, Blount and Knox Counties. 

Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Do you need a Will if you have a Power of Attorney?

Recently I was asked by a prospective client if she needed to have a will drawn up for her mother.  The fear was that going through probate after her mother died would be too much of a hassle for the family.  This particular individual had been told that since she held her mother's Power of Attorney that this would give her the authority she needed after her mother passed to handle the estate herself.  This is not true.  A Power of Attorney is only effective during the life of the individual.  If there is a Will, then the Executor under the Will shall administer the deceased's estate.  If the individual passes without a Will, then the Probate Court will have to name an Administor to handle the affairs of the deceased's estate.

If you are looking to provide guideance for your family upon your passing, then allow The Law Offices of Andrew E. Farmer assist you in creating your Will.  Our licensed Tennessee attorneys can also assist you in your Medical Power of Attorney,  Durable Power of Attorney and other estate planning matters.  Our offic may be reached by calling (865) 428-6737 and our attorneys practice in Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg and throughout all of Sevier, Jefferson, Cocke, Blount & Knox Counties. 

Monday, February 27, 2012

Modifications of Child Custody Orders

When a judge puts down an order for child custody following a divorce, the notion is that will be the order until the minor child or children reach the age of 18.  More often than not, circumstances will change during that potentially 18 years period until the child becomes an adult.  When these changes occur, it may become necessary to modify the current custody order.  This is done in order to provide for what is in the child's/children's best interests.  In order to establish the necessary basis for such a modification, the courts require that a material change in circumstance has arisen.  Some changes may be obvious, such as a parent having to relocate due to employment, however it is not always as clear.  If you are seeking to modify your existing child custody order, then let The Law Offices of Andrew E. Farmer build the case you need to achieve your goals.  Our licensed Tennessee attorneys practice in Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg and throughout all of Sevier, Jefferson, Cocke, Blount & Knox Counties.  You may contact us at (865) 428-6737.

Wednesday, February 22, 2012

Will My Employer Know If I file Bankruptcy?

It is common for people to be concerned that their employer will discover that they filed Bankruptcy.  For some people they are afraid of being fired or possibly they feel a sense of shame for needing debt relief.  These fears are understandable though probably not well founded.  In the event that a person was to be retaliated against for filing Bankruptcy, such as being terminated, then there are protection provisions in the Bankruptcy Code to protect the employee.  Unless your boss or employer is a creditor who needs to be listed in the Bankruptcy filing, then there is strong likelihood that your employer will not be made aware.  The primary exception being that in the event of a Chapter 13, then the required monthly payments to the Trustee could be debited from your wages.  In this event, then your employer would be made aware to facilitate the wages being debited from your check. 

If you are looking to file Bankruptcy and live in East Tennessee, then call the Law Offices of Andrew E. Farmer at (865) 428-6737.  We are a debt relief agency as defined under the Bankruptcy Code. 

Monday, February 20, 2012

Orders of Protection in Tennessee

Domestic abuse and violence in a relationship is always a tragic occurrence.  If an individual is the victim or the parent of minor child who is the victim of domestic violence, then it is important to report the abuse to the proper authorities.  Additionally, that person may seek an Order of Protection.  An Order of Protection is a civil order that prevents the abuser from coming around or even contacting the Petitioner.  An Order of Protection may require that the abuser not possess firearms and carries criminal penalties if the abuser violates the Order.  The Order of Protection may also extend to cover the custody of children in limited appropriate circumstances. 

Once a person swears out an Order of Protection, then the abuser will be served with a copy of the petition and an Ex Parte Protection Order.  The abuser will have to appear in Court in order to challenge the petition.  This often will require a hearing on the merits of the petition.  If you have taken out an Order of Protection and want a skilled attorney to fight for you at your Order of Protection hearing, then call the Law Offices of Andrew E. Farmer at (865) 428-6737.  Our attorneys practice in Sevier, Jefferson, Cocke, Blount and Knox Counties. 

Thursday, February 9, 2012

I was hurt in a car wreck. Do I need an attorney?

If you were injured in a car wreck that was not your fault, then you may need an attorney to fight for you.  While nothing the court can provide can undo the damage that you suffered in your car wreck, the court can seek to compensate you for your loss and suffering.  While may people feel that they can deal with the other person's insurance company, remember that the insurance companies have teams of attorneys seeking to protect themselves and are not on your side.  Let the Law Offices of Andrew E. Farmer fight for you.  Our attorneys practice throughout all of East Tennessee to help you today.

Wednesday, February 8, 2012

Common Mistakes People Make Planning for Bankruptcy

There are many mistakes that someone planning to file bankruptcy can make unless they are guided through the process by an attorney.  Here are just a few of the more common mistakes made by some people.

1.  Transferring money or property to family members prior to filing bankruptcy- If you repay debts you owe to family members or transfer property to the name of a relative like a child, then the court can undo the transfer and distribute that money or property to your creditors.

2.  Not listing all of the person's assets when filing bankruptcy-  If it is found that someone hid assets from the Bankruptcy Court, then that individual can be charged in Federal Court with a felony!  Never hide your assets from the court.

3.  Failing to list a creditor-  If you do not include the creditor on your list of debts to be discharged, then that creditor could come after you to collect even after bankruptcy.

4.  Running up credit card debt immediately before filing-  If the debt on your credit card is less than 90 days old before filing bankruptcy, then it may be presumed to be non-dischargeable. 

It is always the smart decision to consult a licensed bankruptcy attorney prior to planning for bankruptcy on your own.  If you are thinking about filing bankruptcy or need help getting debt relief, then let the Law Offices of Andrew E. Farmer help you get financial relief.  Our attorneys practice throughout East Tennessee and may be reached at (865) 428-6737.

Thursday, February 2, 2012

How important is Child Support in Tennessee?

Tennessee only allows a parent paying child support to stop paying child support permanently in only a few specific cases.  The first is to either move in with the other parent or marry the other parent.  You can also simply wait until your child ages out of child support by the later of either the child reaching 18 years old or graduating from high school , but you will need to verify with the Court that your payment obligations stop when the child turns 18 years old or graduates to avoid the continued support obligation.  The other option is to have your parental rights to the child terminated by allowing the other parent's new spouse to adopt the child as his or her own.  You cannot simply agree with the other parent to not pay child support in exchange for reduced or eliminated visitation with the child. 

If you are involved in either custody or child support battles with your child's other parent, then let the Law Offices of Andrew E. Farmer assist you in fighting for your rights as a parent.  Our attorneys practice in Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, Seymour, Kodak and the surrounding counties of Knox, Jefferson, Blount, and Cocke.  Our office can be contacted at (865) 428-6737.

Tuesday, January 31, 2012

Expungement of Criminal Records in Tennessee

Many people have made mistakes that have landed them with a criminal record.  If you are one of these people, then you know how difficult it can be to be hired in this economy with a less than spotless record.  If you are eligible, than you may be able to have your criminal record expunged or cleared.  While not all convictions are able to be expunged, if the charge was dismissed or resolved with a pre or post trial diversion you may be eligible to have your charges wiped off.  That means that potential employers will not have access to your records or see your record following a background check.  If you were charged with a crime and are seeking to either clear your record or fight your charges, than let the Law Offices of Andrew E. Farmer fight for your rights and your good name.  Our attorneys practice throughout Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg and Blount, Jefferson, Cocke and Knox Counties. 

Monday, January 30, 2012

Can I move out of state with my kids if my Ex doesn't agree to it?

Before a parent may relocate with a child or children against the wishes of the ex-spouse, then the parent wishing to relocate must get approval from the Court.  Before the Court will grant the relocation the Court must find that such a move is in the child's best interest.  To make that determination, the Court will evaluate several factors including the following:

•The purpose of the move (job relocation, better job or remarriage),

•The distance of the move from the non-custodial parent,

•The effect the move will have on the non-custodial parent's visitation rights,

•Whether the move will disrupt the child's current life or routine,

•The effect the move could have on the child's relationship with other siblings or grandparents,

•The child's own wishes, as well as

•The needs of the child.

If you or your spouse is wishing to move out of state with your minor child or children, then let The Law Offices of Andrew E. Farmer assist in fighting for you and your child's best interests.  Our licensed Tennessee attorneys practice in all the courts of Sevier, Jefferson, Blount, Cocke & Knox Counties. 

Friday, January 27, 2012

Tennessee Eviction Process

Tennessee does not allow for a landlord to simply evict a tenant themselves.  In order to remove a tenant that has not paid rent or has otherwise breached the lease agreement, a landlord must first provide proper notice to the tenant to vacate.  The amount of time a landlord must give to the tenant will vary depending upon the reason the eviction is sought.  A landlord should contact an attorney prior to demanding the tenant to leave or for simply providing notice.  If and when notice is properly given, the landlord must then file a Detainer warrant with the General Sessions Court and seek to have the tenant removed.  Only upon granting of the Detainer action is the tenant legally evicted from the property.  It will be up the local sheriff's department to enforce the eviction.  The tenant will have (10) ten days from the Detainer action being granted before the Sheriff may forcefully remove the tenant. 

If you are a tenant being wrongfully evicted or a landlord seeking to properly remove a tenant, then allow the Law Offices of Andrew E. Farmer to assist you in protecting your legal rights.  Our attorneys practice in Sevier, Jefferson, Cocke, Blount & Knox Counties.

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

My Ex isn't paying child support. Can I refuse his visitation time?

It is an all too common issue that arises in custody cases.  One parent is not paying his or her portion of the expenses or child support so the other parent simply refuses visitation to that parent.  This is in no way allowed under our laws.  Simply failing to be timely on child support is not grounds for a parent to refuse visitation with the child. Only the Judge in your case can modify the custody orders.  Failing to follow the court's order simply because the other parent is not current can land you in trouble with the court and is not in the child's best interest.  There are other appropriate remedies that your attorney can advise you of if your Ex is not paying his or her support obligations.

If you are looking for knowledgble custody attorneys in Sevier, Blount, Jefferson, Cocke or Knox Counties, then let the Law Offices of Andrew E. Farmer fight for you and your child's rights.

Friday, January 20, 2012

Prenuptial Agreements and the Modern Marriage

In the current relationship landscape it has become common place for marriages to not last forever.  Even though no one enters into a marriage thinking that the marriage will not survive the test of time, approximately half of all marriages in the United States will end in divorce.  If you are engaged to be married, I recommend that you discuss the ramifications of a prenuptial agreement with an attorney.  A prenuptial agreement allows for sound financial planning in the event of divorce and will often allow for a less contentious divorce.  In order for the agreement to be valid the agreement must be written, signed by both individuals, notarized and must not be unconscionable.  Unconscionable in this context would mean that the agreement must not place an undue burden on one individual such as to leave one individual destitute or unable to provide for themselves.  It is strongly recommended that an attorney draft the agreement and that each party have the opportunity to discuss the agreement with each individuals' separate counsel. 

If you are engaged and live in Sevier, Cocke, Blount, Jefferson, or Knox Counties, then let the The Law Offices of Andrew E. Farmer assist in protecting your financial future by drafting your prenuptial agreement. 

Thursday, January 19, 2012

Do I have to hire an attorney to file bankruptcy?

While there is no requirement that you file your bankruptcy with an attorney it is not advisable often to do so.  If you file without an attorney, then you may lose money or property that may otherwise be protected.The Bankruptcy Code changes often and not knowing the laws may cost you dearly.  Let the attorneys of The Law Offices Of Andrew E. Farmer assist you in your bankruptcy matters.  Our attorneys practice in Sevier, Blount, Jefferson, Cocke & Knox Counties

Monday, January 16, 2012

Do I have to pay child support?

Occasionally, a parent going through divorce will ask if he or she will have to pay child support.  It is important to understand that in a case where custody is to be divided between the parents, then there will be one parent who is likely to have to pay child support.  The reason why is not that the other parent necessarily is only after money, but that the State of Tennessee requires that the support of the minor child or children be included in any Permanent Parenting Plan.  The amount of child support to be paid is determined by the State's child support calculator.  The factors involved in child support include the amount of time with each parent, the cost of health insurance on the children, the total number of children, the gross monthly income of the parents and necessary work related child care expenses.  When these factors are examined, it is even possible that parents who have approximately equal income and time have a father or mother paying support. 

If you are going through divorce, then allow the attorneys of The Law Offices of Andrew E. Farmer assist you in fighting for your rights as a parent.  Our attorneys practice in Sevier, Knox, Jefferson, Blount and Cocke Counties. 

Friday, January 13, 2012

Divorce and Dating

Often people going through divorce will ask "When can I start dating again?"  While it is common for individuals to be dating or seeing other people while separated or going through divorce, until the divorce is granted by the Judge then legally that is adultery.  While there is no legal waiting period after a divorce to start dating again, I recommend that you do not start right away.  Even though often after or during a divorce people feel relieved to be done with the prior relationship, there still is a grieving process.  Marriage and the relationship that existed is a large part of any person's life and people need time to mentally and emotionally process the experience of being separated and divorced.  When you move from one relationship to another without the opportunity to be single for awhile then you bring a lot of emotional and mental baggage from the prior relationship into the next relationship.  A good rule of thumb is to not make any new major life changes or decisions within a year after the divorce, and that includes being involved in another serious relationship.  This will allow you time to become truly single and independent again so that your next relationship can start out fresh without being tainted by your prior relationship experience.

If you are looking for an experienced and compassionate attorney to help guide you through your divorce or custody matters, then allow the licensed attorneys of The Law Offices of Andrew E. Farmer fight for you.  Our attorneys practice in Sevier, Cocke, Jefferson, Blount & Knox Counties. 

Wednesday, January 11, 2012

Can I get a divorce if my spouse will not sign our paperwork?

This is a common question that comes up when dealing with divorce matters.  While it is usually cheaper and faster to get a divorce when both spouses are in agreement, it is not necessary.  If a wife for example were to file for a divorce from a husband that was abusive, then is the court going force that wife to stay married to her abusive husband?  Absolutely not.  If that same wife were to file for divorce and the husband was served with the papers, then if the husband fails to answer the divorce complaint the Judge can grant the divorce by default judgment.  While this is not the only way to get divorced to an individual who refuses to co-operate or sign, it is the more common way. 

If you are looking for experienced divorce and family law attorneys in Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg or any of the surrounding counties of Blount, Knox, Jefferson, or Cocke, then let the attorneys of The Law Offices of Andrew E. Farmer fight for you and your children. 

Tuesday, January 10, 2012

Can I be arrested for not paying my bills?

There are certain financial obligations that failing to pay can land you in jail.  The first is child support.  Failing to pay child support can result in your incarceration.  You may also be incarcerated for failing to pay obligations related to criminal probation or parole if your probation or parole is revoked.  You could also be placed in jail for theft of services by running out on a meal from a restaurant for example. 

Tennessee does not have debtor's prison for regular civil debts.  That means you cannot be arrested or placed in jail for not paying your debts such as a credit card or even your mortgage.  However there can be severe personal consequences for failing to pay bills such as damaging your credit, repossession of your car, foreclosure on your home or even money being garnished from your pay check.   These consequences may often feel worse than simply being arrested as these debts often do not seem to have an end in sight. 

If you feel overwhelmed by your bills and you cannot pay your debts, then let the Law Offices of Andrew E. Farmer help you get the debt relief you desperately need.  Our experienced lawyers and staff can help you get relief in civil court and/ or bankruptcy.  We practice in East Tennessee in Sevier, Cocke, Blount, Jefferson & Knox Counties with our offices located in downtown Sevierville.

Monday, January 9, 2012

Legal Seperation

"If my spouse and I do not live together anymore are we legally separated?"  The simple answer is unless the court has declared you legally separated then you are not legally separated.  Legal separation is a formal legal finding where a couple is still legally married but the spouses are not liable to for the other's new debts or tax liability.  Additionally, legal separation provides parties with the ability to put an order for custody in place despite there not being a divorce between the parties.  Legal separation is common where there is a question between the spouses whether they are wanting to be divorced or if there are religious objections to getting a divorce.  

The divorce and custody attorneys of The Law of Andrew E. Farmer practice in Sevier, Jefferson, Cocke, Blount & Knox Counties.  We may be contacted at (865) 428-6737.

Thursday, January 5, 2012

Can I ever get a mortgage loan after I have filed Bankruptcy?

Many people are concerned when filing Bankruptcy that they will never be able to successfully apply for a mortgage loan after they have done so.  This is just not the case.  Now it will depend on how aggressive you are at working towards rebuilding your damaged credit score, but there is light at the end of the debt tunnel.  If you have any valuable property that you may put forward as collateral, then even individuals with post-Bankruptcy credit can get loans.  Also, there are groups including credit cards who will offer credit at devilishly high interest rates to help you rebuild credit.  Be aware of such credit cards.  It is almost always a better idea to contact your local bank about the prospects of a secured credit card that is backed by cash.  It is a great, lower interest way of developing your credit following a Bankruptcy.

If you are looking for debt relief in Sevierville, Jefferson City, Dandridge, or anywhere throughout East Tennessee, then do not hesitate to contact the licensed attorneys of The Law Offices of Andrew E. Farmer at (865) 428-6737.


Tuesday, January 3, 2012

Can Bankrtupcy Actually Improve Your Credit Score?

While it is true that filing a Chapter 7 is the worst thing that an individual can do to their credit score, the damage may only be temporary.  On more than one occasion I have had clients that in 18 months of Chapter 7 to discover that their credit score was higher than before filing bankruptcy.  How is this possible?  If you are in a financial situation that has you over due on all your credit card bills and with a stack of civil judgments against you for not being able to pay your bills, then you may be able to improve your credit score long term by completing a Chapter 7.  The reason is that often in these situations, your debt-to-income ratio is almost all debt and no income.  This is a major factor in determining your credit.  Additionally, once you file there will be other credit offers being made to you that could help re-establish a positive payment history with credit.  However, I always strongly advise against taking on new credit cards and other debts after completing a bankruptcy.  If you would like to meet and discuss your options to get debt relief, then call the Law Offices of Andrew E. Farmer at (865) 428-6737.  Our licensed attorneys practice in Sevier, Knox, Blount, Jefferson and Cocke Counties.