Blogs

3 months 3 weeks ago

What is the means test in bankruptcy? Business Insider (see link below) has a very helpful article on the Means Test in personal Bankruptcy filings. https://www.businessinsider.com/personal-finance/what-is-bankruptcy-means-test
In our experience, having filed approximately 1,000 Bankruptcy Petitions for individuals and businesses, the Median Income and Means Test is especially important for higher income Debtors. Individuals with questions about the Median Income or Means Test should contact Jim Shenwick, EsqJim Shenwick, Esq  917 363 3391  [email protected]Please click the link to schedule a telephone call with me.https://calendly.com/james-shenwick/15min
We held individuals & businesses with too much debt!


3 months 3 weeks ago

 Fraud Investigations into COVID-Era PPP and EIDL Loans Increasing. JD Supra (link below) has an article stating that fraud investigations into PPP and EIDL loans from the SBA are increasing. https://www.jdsupra.com/legalnews/fraud-investigations-into-covid-era-ppp-3571111/Based on telephone calls to our law offices, we believe that that statement is correct. Clients who are contacted by the Department of Justice regarding PPP or EIDL fraud should contact and retain experienced criminal counsel as soon as possible.
We at Shenwick & Associates are only representing clients with Defaulted SBA loans. 

Jim Shenwick, Esq  917 363 3391  [email protected] Please click the link to schedule a telephone call with me.https://calendly.com/james-shenwick/15minWe held individuals & businesses with too much debt!


3 months 3 weeks ago

Some who took out parent PLUS loans to send their kids to college expect to die with debt.USA Today has an article about Parent Plus Loans and parents who took them out.The article can be found at https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/education/2023/12/03/parents-struggl...
Jim Shenwick, Esq  917 363 3391  [email protected] Please click the link to schedule a telephone call with me. https://calendly.com/james-shenwick/15minWe held individuals & businesses with too much debt!


4 months 31 min ago

Understand Bankruptcy Exemptions in Portland, Oregon
Exploring Oregon bankruptcy exemptions is crucial for those seeking a fresh start in Portland, OR. At Northwest Debt Relief Law Firm, we understand that the mere mention of bankruptcy can be daunting, but being well-informed is the first step toward financial recovery.
Short Summary:

  • Oregon bankruptcy exemptions offer protection for retaining assets during the challenging bankruptcy process.
  • The critical exemptions available in Oregon are homestead exemption, motor vehicle exemption, and wild card exemption. 
  • Personal property exemptions in Oregon cover household goods, tools of the trade, and more. 
  • There are residency requirements for filing bankruptcy in Oregon and the implications for choosing exemptions based on your previous state.
  • Navigate strategic asset retention through bankruptcy exemptions, including considerations for exempt and nonexempt property, state or federal exemptions, and benefits for couples.
  • Gain insight into protecting retirement accounts under federal legislation and the importance of accurate information to avoid fraudulent behavior.
  • Get post-bankruptcy guidance from a bankruptcy lawyer, including advice on rebuilding credit and making sound financial decisions.

We are your advocates, committed to supporting you with knowledge and providing a supportive environment as you navigate bankruptcy’s challenges. In this article, we will expand on the bankruptcy exemptions available for you in Oregon and give you a general review of your choices when choosing bankruptcy.
What are Bankruptcy Exemptions?
Oregon bankruptcy exemptions are pivotal in determining what assets you can retain when filing bankruptcy. These exemptions safeguard certain types and amounts of property from being included in the bankruptcy estate. For the layman, it’s akin to a protective shield for your hard-earned assets in the face of financial adversity.
What Bankruptcy Exemptions are Available in Oregon?
Understanding the intricacies of Oregon bankruptcy exemptions is essential when contemplating bankruptcy. These exemptions enable you to retain essential assets such as:

  • Oregon Homestead Exemption: Debtors in Oregon have the right to exclude a maximum of $40,000 of equity in their home or another property, as long as it doesn’t go beyond one block of a town, city limits, or 160 acres. If there are two debtors within a household, the combined homestead exemption cannot exceed $50,000.
  • Motor Vehicle Exemption: Debtors are entitled to exempt up to $3,000 for any motor vehicle.
  • Wild Card Exemption: Oregon offers protection for any personal property (excluding real estate) not covered by another exemption to a limit of $400.

Exemptions for Personal Property
Exemptions for personal property in Oregon include:

  • Household Goods: $3,000, not including that of the spouse
  • Clothing, Jewelry, and Miscellaneous Items: $1,800
  • Tools of the Trade, Professional Equipment, and Farming Items: $5,000
  • Animals, Poultry, and Animal Feed: $1,000 without doubling
  • Fuel and Provisions: A 60-day supply
  • Healthcare Items: All health aids
  • Child Support and Alimony Essential for Support: Full amount
  • Compensation for Personal Injuries: $10,000
  • Compensation for Crime Victims: Full amount
  • Books, Art, and Musical Instruments: $600
  • Health and Medical Savings Accounts: Full amount
  • Exempt Funds Deposited into a Bank Account: $7,500
  • Firearms: One rifle or shotgun and pistol, totaling $1,000
  • Tuition Savings Program: $7,500 per deposit account

The value of state exemptions is always adjusted. You can find updated data in the exemption statutes of the Oregon State Legislature.
When Do I File For Bankruptcy Exemptions in Oregon?
Filing for bankruptcy in Oregon is possible after residing there for a minimum of 180 days. A prerequisite for filing Oregon bankruptcy exemptions is a residency of at minimum 730 days before filing. Failure to meet this criterion would entail using exemptions from your previous state.
In cases where your residency spans multiple states within the two years leading up to bankruptcy filing, you must follow the state’s exemptions where you spent most of the 180 days before the two years of filing.
Can I Maintain My Property in Oregon Using Bankruptcy Exemptions?
In bankruptcy, one doesn’t necessarily lose all their assets. Instead, bankruptcy exemption laws act as a safeguard for one’s property. The following breakdown highlights the main exemptions that, when understood, allow for strategic optimization of asset retention:

  • Exempt and Nonexempt Property: Assets protected by exemptions, known as “exempt” property, are shielded under the law. If a bankruptcy exemption doesn’t cover a specific asset, it may lead to forfeiture under Chapter 7 or require payment in the Chapter 13 repayment plan.
  • State or Federal Exemptions: Individuals can select either the state exemption list or the federal bankruptcy exemptions. It’s crucial to note that combining exemptions from both sets is not allowed. Moreover, those choosing state exemptions still qualify for federal nonbankruptcy exemptions.
  • Double Exemptions for Couples: Married partners filing jointly may benefit from potentially doubling exemption amounts when both share ownership of a particular asset.
  • Protection of Retirement Accounts: Federal legislation protects for tax-exempt retirement accounts, including 401(K)s, 403(b)s, profit-sharing and money purchase plans, SEP and SIMPLE IRAs, defined benefit plans, and traditional and Roth IRAs. The allowable limit for such accounts is $1,512,350 per person, applicable for cases filed between April 1, 2022, and March 31, 2025.

Can I Stop Problems Regarding Bankruptcy Exemptions in Oregon?
The bankruptcy trustee, an official designated by the court to oversee your case, should assess any claimed exemptions. Should there be a disagreement, the trustee will seek an informal resolution. If it fails, the trustee has the authority to file a formal objection with the court, leaving the final decision on who owns the property to the judge.
Deliberately providing false information will be considered as fraudulent behavior. Bankruptcy fraud carries severe consequences, including potential penalties of $250,000, a 20-year prison term, or a combination of both.
Why Do I Need the Help of a Bankruptcy Attorney?
Engaging the services of a bankruptcy lawyer, especially one like from Northwest Debt Relief Law Firm in Portland, OR, can offer several critical benefits:

  • Legal Experience: Bankruptcy law is complex and varies by jurisdiction. Our bankruptcy lawyer is well-versed in the intricacies of the law and can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation.
  • Understanding of Local Laws: Laws can vary from state to state. Hiring a local bankruptcy lawyer ensures that you receive advice and representation specific to the laws in Oregon, including those in Portland.
  • Assessment of Options: Our bankruptcy lawyer can assess your financial situation and help determine the most appropriate type of bankruptcy for your needs, whether Chapter 7, Chapter 13, or another option.
  • Paperwork and Documentation: Filing for bankruptcy involves extensive paperwork and documentation. Our lawyer can help ensure that all necessary forms are completed accurately and submitted on time, reducing the risk of delays or complications.
  • Representation in Court: If your case requires court appearances, having our bankruptcy lawyer by your side provides legal representation and support throughout the proceedings.
  • Protection from Harassment: Once you file for bankruptcy, creditors are legally required to cease collection activities. Our bankruptcy lawyer can handle communications with creditors, stopping harassing calls and letters.
  • Maximizing Exemptions: In Chapter 7 bankruptcy, certain assets are exempt from liquidation. Our skilled bankruptcy lawyer can help you maximize the use of exemptions, allowing you to retain more of your property.
  • Post-Bankruptcy Guidance: Our bankruptcy lawyer can offer advice on rebuilding your credit and making sound financial decisions after bankruptcy.

While it’s possible to file for bankruptcy without legal representation, the complexities of the process make it highly advisable to seek legal help. Our bankruptcy lawyer can guide you through each step, increasing the chances of a smooth and successful resolution to your financial challenges.
Give Our Bankruptcy Attorneys a Call Today!
Choosing Northwest Debt Relief Law Firm in Portland, OR, means choosing a team that goes beyond the conventional attorney-client relationship. Our skills extend beyond understanding Oregon bankruptcy exemptions; we prioritize your peace of mind. We believe in open communication, ensuring you are well informed at every step of the process.
Let us be your partners on this journey toward a brighter financial tomorrow. Call us today, and get free debt solution consultations Chapter 7 and 13 bankruptcies!


4 months 1 day ago

The Daily Record has an article titled "Small business, big target: Predatory lenders take aim at struggling businesses | Civil Litigation". The article concerns Merchant Cash Advances to small businesses and the risks and pitfalls of those loans.
The article can be found at https://nydailyrecord.com/2023/11/27/small-business-big-target-predatory...
Jim Shenwick, Esq  917 363 3391  [email protected] 
Please click the link to schedule a telephone call with me.
 https://calendly.com/james-shenwick/15min
We held individuals & businesses with too much debt!


4 months 1 week ago

 Social Security payments could be cut over Student Loan DefaultFox Business has a story detailing how Social Security payments could be cut over student loan defaults. The story can be found at:https://www.foxbusiness.com/personal-finance/social-security-payments-garnished-student-loan-default?utm_source=pocket_mylist
Jim Shenwick, Esq  917 363 3391  [email protected] Please click the link to schedule a telephone call with me. https://calendly.com/james-shenwick/15minWe held individuals & businesses with too much debt!


4 months 3 weeks ago

Big News Network has a very helpful article on Bankruptcy, understanding the implications and process. The article can be found at  https://www.bignewsnetwork.com/news/274017564/navigating-bankruptcy-understanding-the-process-and-implicationsClients with questions about Bankruptcy should contact Jim  Shenwick, EsqJim Shenwick, Esq  917 363 3391  [email protected] Please click the link to schedule a telephone call with me. https://calendly.com/james-shenwick/15minWe held individuals & businesses with too much debt!


4 months 4 weeks ago

 The New York Post is reporting that WeWork to file for bankruptcy after once being valued at $47B: report. The story can be found at https://nypost.com/2023/10/31/business/wework-to-file-for-bankruptcy-it-was-once-valued-at-47b/?utm_source=gmail&utm_campaign=android_nyp
Jim Shenwick, Esq  917 363 3391  [email protected] 
Please click the link to schedule a telephone call with me.
 https://calendly.com/james-shenwick/15min
We held individuals & businesses with too much debt!


5 months 6 days ago

 Business Insider has a very helpful article titled "How to file for bankruptcy ".The article can be found at https://www.businessinsider.com/personal-finance/how-to-file-for-bankruptcyPeople with questions about Jim Shenwick, Esq  917 363 3391  [email protected] 
Please click the link to schedule a telephone call with me.
 https://calendly.com/james-shenwick/15min
We held individuals & businesses with too much debt!


5 months 1 week ago

Student Loan Payments Are Restarting. See the below link for what Borrowers Need to Know https://edtrust.org/resource/student-loan-payments-are-restarting-heres-...
Jim Shenwick, Esq  917 363 3391  [email protected] 
Please click the link to schedule a telephone call with me.
 https://calendly.com/james-shenwick/15min
We held individuals & businesses with too much debt!


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