Being forced into bankruptcy is something that we all try to avoid, but it doesn't always have to be such a bad thing. Others, like the attorneys at Gregory K. Stern, P.C., think of it as an opportunity to get a fresh start. The Chicago-based bankruptcy and foreclosure firm, made up of attorneys Gregory K. Stern, Rachel S. Sandler, Dennis E. Quaid, and Monica C. O'Brien, have extensive experience in Chapters 7, 11, and 13 bankruptcies, as well as foreclosures, loan workouts, and debt management. Our expert attorneys have helped countless clients solve their problems in credit card debt, payday loans, vehicle repossessions, and even parking tickets. They understand the unique responsibilities faced by residents of the Chicagoland area, and have decided to tailor their services accordingly. The attorneys at Gregory K. Stern, P.C. are members of the Illinois Bar Association and the Chicago Bar Association.
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy is used to eliminate debt. It is often referred to as “liquidation” or a “straight” bankruptcy because virtually all debt is eliminated. However, not all debt is automatically eliminated or discharged. Some of the types of debt that can survive a Chapter 7 case include: child support, alimony, parking tickets, many student loans and certain tax debt. Once we know the facts of your case, we can tell you what debt you are able to discharge.
Spousal Support
Chapter 13 bankruptcy is sometimes referred to as the Wage Earners bankruptcy. Just like with Chapter 7 cases, there are certain requirements to be eligible to file a Chapter 13. The most important eligibility requirement is that you must have regular income to file a Chapter 13. Regular income can include wages, social security, disability, unemployment compensation, court ordered alimony, rental income, or regular contributions from third parties. It is important to note that only individuals and married couples, not businesses, can file for Chapter 13.
We have been representing clients for years in regard to getting out of real estate sale contracts, enforcing real estate sale contracts, modifying or amending real estate sale contracts, and other matters related to real estate contracts. We also prepare real estate sale contracts and related documents for individuals buying or selling properties on their own. We also prepare contracts for deed instruments, depending on the circumstances of the client.
Condominium Law
COVID-19 – Foreclosures If you are unable to pay your mortgage as a result of the Covid-19 crisis, you should contact your mortgage lender immediately. Most mortgage lenders are working with homeowners to help you retain your property. However, you MUST contact your lender. Programs that are available are not automatic and will likely require you to complete an application. In Cook County, there is a moratorium of foreclosure cases. The following is a summary of how the Covid-19 crisis has affected foreclosure cases in Cook County. Foreclosure Moratorium on Residential Real Property “federally backed mortgage loan” includes any loan secured by a first or subordinate lien on residential real property (including condominiums and cooperatives) on 1-to 4-unit buildings which are either insured or guaranteed under FHA, VA, and certain other programs or which are purchased or securitized by FHLMC or FNMA. Allows borrower to request forbearance on a federally backed mortgage loan for up to 180 days which shall be extended for an additional 180 days at borrower’s request, subject to borrower’s request to shorten the period. All borrower needs to do is submit a request to the servicer affirming that borrower is experiencing a financial hardship during the COVID-19 emergency. Makes no difference if borrower was delinquent at the time of the request. during forbearance period, no fees, penalties, or interest shall accrue [...]
The enactment of the Small Business Reorganization Act (“ SBRA ”) has added a new subsection to Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code, which is being referred to as a Subchapter V. Subchapter V was created to offer small business debtors a faster and less expensive Chapter 11 reorganization path. The Chapter 11 bankruptcy attorneys at Gregory K. Stern, P.C. are available to discuss this new reorganizational option. The SBRA and Subchapter V include many new provisions, but here are some of the key differences between a Subchapter V case versus a regular Chapter 11 case.