Filing Bankruptcy After A Natural Disaster

Filing Bankruptcy After A Natural Disaster

Theron Morrison founded the Morrison Law Group to provide superior legal services to every Utah resident and client. The MLG prides itself on quality, experienced, and caring legal representation. During these trying economic times, it is not uncommon for financial obligations to overwhelm you. The Morrison Law Group can provide the necessary guidance, assistance, and hope that clients expect and deserve.  We continue to deliver outstanding service even after our clients receive their discharge, protecting them from unscrupulous and dishonest creditors while helping them take measures to restore their credit and take full advantage of their fresh start.

As the coronavirus pandemic rages on, the scope of the uncertainty within our lives broadens almost daily. Many of the activities that we take for granted are now subject to compromise. There are reminders everywhere how life, as we know it, has changed. As many people struggle to make ends meet. one thing that has not changed, is the general public’s ability to access the federal court system in Utah and find relief for their financial problems, especially those caused by the economic effects of COVID-19. The U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Utah and the United States Trustee’s Office both have certain procedures to accommodate bankruptcy filings after a natural disaster.

Filing for bankruptcy after a natural disaster is common since many people lose property and employment.  Also, the necessary documentation such as paystubs, title deeds, bank statements, retirement account information, and tax records – all which contain information that must be disclosed in bankruptcy, may turn up missing. As a result, concessions are made and procedures are planned for such emergencies. When a prospective bankruptcy filer loses financial paperwork in a natural disaster, the bankruptcy trustee must:

  • avoid taking action against a debtor who cannot produce certain documentation
  • grant reasonable requests to extend or ease filing requirements, and
  • take into account any decrease in income or increase in expenses.

Additional accommodations may be required in addition to those mentioned above. As we have seen, alternative means of holding the § 341 meeting of creditors by phone has been implemented by the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, District of Utah.

Consult with an experienced Utah bankruptcy attorney, such as one of the many qualified attorneys at the Morrison Law Group who can explain the process and timeline of both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy cases. Call 801.456.9933 today to schedule a FREE consultation. We have locations in Ogden, Logan, Sandy, and St. George to serve the residents of the counties of Weber, Cache, Salt Lake, Utah, Morgan, Davis, Washington, and surrounding areas.

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Theron Morrison

Utah’s top bankruptcy and consumer protection attorney.

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