Asked in Bankruptcy, Consumer Law and Collections for California

Q: My debt is 3 years old. I was sued in my absence from the country and now wish to return. Not sure how to

I left California due to a bad relationship. I foolishly walked away from all responsibilities as I was extremely stressed and left 30k of outstanding debt. Car loans, cc, etc. Prior to this my credit was perfect! It was the biggest mistake of my life!!

It’s now been 3 or so years and I wish to come back to the states and start afresh. I was sued in my absences and I am not sure who by & I only know this because I visited California a few weeks ago and opened a bank account. The debt showed as a negative amount on the account.

I am not sure how to clear my debts or what I should even do. I am not in any position to pay any of them out right but desperately want to clear them as clearly I can’t even open a bank account without them garnishing my future wages. What do I do seeing as it’s already been to court in my absence. Do I have any options at all?

I also wish to buy a home in a few years once I’ve dealt with this.

4 Lawyer Answers
Leon Bayer
Leon Bayer
Answered
  • Bankruptcy Lawyer
  • Long Beach, CA
  • Licensed in California

A: You certainly do have options. Talk to one or more bankruptcy lawyers to explore those options. If you are informed that bankruptcy is one of those options, you can probably make all the debt go away, even the lawsuits.

Scott Richard Kaufman agrees with this answer

Aaron Michael Lloyd
Aaron Michael Lloyd
Answered
  • Bankruptcy Lawyer
  • San Bernardino, CA
  • Licensed in California

A: You maybe able to file bankruptcy and eliminate most if not all of your debt. When do you plan to move back to the United States? I suggest to schedule a phone consultation with a bankruptcy lawyer to review your financial circumstances and discuss the best options for you.

Scott Richard Kaufman agrees with this answer

Timothy Denison
Timothy Denison
Answered
  • Bankruptcy Lawyer
  • Louisville, KY

A: Chapter 7 bankruptcy.

Harlene Miller
Harlene Miller
Answered
  • Bankruptcy Lawyer
  • Irvine, CA
  • Licensed in California

A: In addition to consulting with a bankruptcy attorney, I suggest you get a copy of your credit report to see what is being reported and to identify the creditors. You will need this information whether you want to settle the debt or if you decide to file bankruptcy.

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