If you're thinking about filing for bankruptcy, it's important to know that the Bankruptcy Code has special provisions for credit card purchases of luxury goods and services within 90 days of filing. Luxury items are items that are not considered necessities or general living expenses and may not be able to be included in your bankruptcy discharge. If you buy luxury items on your credit card within 90 days before the date that you file your bankruptcy petition, the credit card company may object to being discharged or wiped out in your bankruptcy. Christmas gifts can be considered luxuries as ..read more

We are in the midst of prime time holiday season! As much fun as that is, for many it also means a lot of added stress, especially when it comes to finances. Most people find themselves spending more money around the holidays, not only to purchase gifts but also hosting or attending holiday parties and possibly traveling. If you are already dealing with a large amount of debt, the holiday season is extremely stressful. In fact, you might be considering filing for bankruptcy to relieve some of that stress. So should you file before or after Christmas?     Well, the answer is; it depends! One bi ..read more

Do you lay awake at night worrying about how to pay your bills or put food on the table? It’s an emotional and stressful time when your bills are piling up with no light at the end of the tunnel. Sometimes filing for bankruptcy is the best option to be able to regain control over your life and your financial situation, but can you do it yourself? Do you need to have an attorney to file bankruptcy? Why would you pay an attorney to help you file, when you’re already in financial distress? Here at Hampton Roads Legal Services we understand your concerns; you want to save as much money as you can ..read more

It’s that time of year again when the new college semester begins for either you or your child who is in college. Here are some great ways to save when either buying educational materials or generally saving some cash in college. Buy or rent used textbooks and sell last semester books back. Another great tip is, talk to other students in your programs or classes who have had a previous class and see if you can buy the textbook from them for cheaper, or borrow it and return it to them at the end of the semester. Shop where they offer student discounts. Attend the local gym on campus verses off ..read more

You’ve finally taken the leap to change your financial future through bankruptcy, but now there is a huge question mark in your mind about what happens next! Maybe you are beginning the research phase of making a decision, and you just want to know the basic details of filing for bankruptcy. The bankruptcy process can be overwhelming, but knowing what you will need to do ahead of time can alleviate some of the stress and reduce fear of the unknown. In this article you can read about the 5 of the most important factors that are “Need to Know” about the bankruptcy process.  1. You will have LOTS ..read more

It’s a common misconception that unless you are married with children and have a hefty bank account, you don’t need a will. And you don’t need an Estate Planning attorney because you don’t have an “estate? Well, let’s break it down. A will is not just for married couples with children, or for the top 1%. In fact,, a will could be very important to have even if you are under 30 and single. What does a will really do? If you pass away and you have a will in place then you can be certain that your property and assets will be distributed according to your wishes. However, if you don’t have a will ..read more

There is one simple truth about debt: it is easier to avoid getting in debt than it is to get out of it.Prevention is far better than a cure when it comes to the issue of debt and it is actually easy to avoid the debt trap providing you manage your money, are disciplined in relation to your spending and have some savings tucked away in the event of unexpected emergencies.A review of your lifestyle is one way to ensure you do not get into debt.Changing spending habits can help with this, such as limiting the access you give yourself to credit facilities and making use of public transport rather ..read more