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Credit Counseling And Debtor Education In Union County, New Jersey

After making the decision to file for bankruptcy but prior to submitting a filing to the court, debtors must complete certain legally required steps. One such step is completing a credit counseling session. These short sessions, while they are required, are also beneficial for debtors because awareness is raised about issues that may not have been contemplated yet.

My name is Benjamin J. Ginter, and I am a Union County bankruptcy attorney with more than 10 years of experience. When I take a client through bankruptcy, whether Chapter 7 or Chapter 13, one of my goals is to ensure that the client understands the process and what is required of debtors at all stages of the process. Credit counseling is now one part of the process, and my Cranford firm can help you understand the requirement.

What Do You Need To Do?

Every person in New Jersey and any other state who wishes to file bankruptcy must complete a course in credit counseling and debtor education. You will then receive a certification of completion, which will be submitted to the court along with your other materials.

  • Credit counseling course: This basic course educates debtors about the options that may be available, including alternatives to bankruptcy. This course takes place before filing for bankruptcy.
  • Financial management/debtor education course: This counseling session educates debtors on how to manage their money in ways that would prevent them from getting into serious financial trouble again. This course takes place before the final discharge of debt (i.e. toward the end of the process).

Who Runs The Counseling Sessions?

All credit counseling and debtor education courses are administered by credit counselors from various organizations. There are hundreds of such organizations in New Jersey. A counselor will evaluate your income and spending habits, and make recommendations on how to live within your means.

Many of these classes are available online or can be completed over the phone. As your Union County lawyer, I can point you in the right direction if you need help finding a suitable counselor. If you then wish to move forward with bankruptcy after receiving counseling, I will work with you to make your new financial life a reality.

Contact A Cranford Attorney To Discuss Debtor Education And Related Issues

I offer a free initial consultation at my office in Cranford. To arrange a meeting, please call me at 908-418-4084 or send me an email. I represent people in Union County and throughout New Jersey.