Legal Question in Bankruptcy in California

All of the debt is in my name, if I file Chapter 7, can the creditors still come after my wife?


Asked on 10/21/09, 9:25 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

David Gibbs The Gibbs Law Firm, APC

It depends upon when the debt was incurred, but in most cases the answer would be yes. California is a community property state. If the debt was incurred while married, then it is presumed to be a community debt, and even though you may have discharged the debt in Chapter 7, your wife has not. Chapter 13 has a co-debtor stay which would protect your wife, but it does require monthly payments for 3 to 5 years. I would suggest that you need to meet with an experienced, qualified bankruptcy attorney.

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Answered on 10/27/09, 8:09 pm


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