At Alan J. Fisher, PA, we understand that the process of bankruptcy is not an easy situation. When struggling with debt, it is helpful to know what has caused this situation. In the year 2010, approximately 1.5 million individuals filed for bankruptcy. It is an easy situation to find yourself in, especially with credit cards and the number of expenses we have to handle. Understanding likely causes can prove to be beneficial, no matter what present circumstance you may be facing. Below, we have listed the most common causes of bankruptcy that our firm has handled.

Medical Expenses

The illness or injury is not the only difficult circumstance that must be handled when it comes to the hospital. Even with health insurance, medical expenses can get out of control instantaneously. These are typically unexpected expenses that can cause many frustrating circumstances. They often also result in the inability to return to work and handle other responsibilities. The effect of medical bills can be catastrophic to many individuals. For those who are underinsured or uninsured, a visit to the hospital can prove to be a heavy expense which may eventually result in bankruptcy.

Divorce

The dissolution of marriage can lead to substantial debt problem and it has commonly been a cause of bankruptcy for many individuals. It may be tough to control the expenses that result from this legal situation. The splitting of a marital income into two new lifestyles can prove difficult to one or both parties. There are also many legal expenses that can also cause bank accounts to quickly decrease. Single mothers and fathers who do not receive child support commonly have to file for bankruptcy to get rid of their debt. The party required to pay child or spousal support can also face a difficult financial circumstance that is associated with following their court order.

Job Loss / Unemployment

In correlation with the high unemployment rate, the number of bankruptcies has increased. Those who lose their jobs often have a difficult time finding another. The result is a lowered income while still having to pay for life's expenses with the small amount of money available. Unemployment benefits are not typically capable of meeting the demands of a household. If new employment is eventually obtained, it is often after the debt has made a stain on the family's finances. With the heavy competition for available employment opportunities, it is difficult for those who are unemployed to get back on their feet.

Overextension / Mismanagement

Another common cause of bankruptcy is that of overextension or mismanagement. This is often associated with young professionals who have recently graduated from college and used credit cards to pay for college. When college loans are not able to be paid when the grace period has ended, an individual or young couple may face a difficult circumstance. Young professionals and couples may make optimistic decisions, such as purchasing a house that they cannot actually afford. They do not anticipate the financial expenses that are associated with beginning a family and how difficult failing to adjust their budgets can be. The failure to manage finances can often lead to sufficient amounts of debt and even bankruptcy.

How do I handle my debt?

If you or your family are facing debt, no matter what the cause, it is important to take immediate action. As your Boca Raton bankruptcy attorney, we can help you through this process. In addition, we can help you understand your specific situation to help ensure that the same situation does not take place in the future. We are dedicated professionals who are prepared to find the debt resolution that works best for you. By working together, we can discuss your situation with you and help you understand the common ways to help avoid this situation in the future.

Contact our firm at your earliest convenience to develop a plan that suits you.