Q: if i file bankruptcy prior to sheriff's sale am I still responsbile for defficiency?
A:
Personal liability for mortgage debt (though not the lien on the property) can be discharged in Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Likewise, a deficiency judgment may be discharged in bankruptcy after the judgment is entered. Depending on the specific circumstances, there may be advantages to filing in advance of the sale, but the debt may be discharged before or after the fact. A local bankruptcy attorney can help you assess the best timing for your particular situation.
*Kevin Chern is Managing Partner of UpRight Law, a national law firm with licensed attorneys providing bankruptcy and consumer legal services in all 50 states. He is an Illinois licensed attorney with 21 years of federal consumer bankruptcy and consumer protection law experience. This response is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be legal advice. For legal advice, consult an attorney licensed in your state with the appropriate expertise.
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