Consumer Bankruptcy Project

Consumer Bankruptcy Project

To get help from the Consumer Bankruptcy Project, call 212.626.7383.
Overview

The City Bar Justice Center’s Consumer Bankruptcy Project advises New Yorkers struggling with consumer debt on their options and eligibility to file for bankruptcy relief – and, through its new student loan practice, also assists borrowers with federal and private student loans via community education and individual counseling.

Unexpected life events such as divorce, loss of income, and illness are among the many reasons individuals with limited economic means struggle to pay back their creditors.  They are often harassed by debt collectors, have their incomes garnished, and risk having their minimal assets seized, pushing them further into poverty. The Consumer Bankruptcy Project provides qualifying individuals with the information and resources they need to manage their debt more effectively, take control of their finances, make informed decisions about loan repayment options and, where possible, utilize bankruptcy as a form of relief.

The Project realizes its work by recruiting, training, and mentoring volunteer lawyers to help New Yorkers struggling with consumer debts obtain an economic fresh start.  Where appropriate, volunteers prepare the forms and schedules necessary for individuals to file pro se Chapter 7 cases and advise them on the steps needed to successfully obtain a discharge. The Project also oversees the Bankruptcy Pro Bono Panel, which provides pro bono representation in matters referred by bankruptcy judges of the Southern and Eastern Districts of New York. The Panel is comprised of volunteer attorneys who represent interested parties, who cannot afford to obtain private counsel, in discrete contested matters relating to their bankruptcy cases, such as the discharge of student loans and stay relief.

Ramona Morel directs the Consumer Bankruptcy Project and Jennifer Arocha is the project coordinator.


Not sure if this is the right project? Contact our free Legal Hotline at 212-626-7383.

 

 

 

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Bankruptcy Resources

Small Business Bankruptcy Webinar Watch video / Download presentation slides (2020)

Bankruptcy: Options for Small Businesses in Distress (2020)

Fresh Start Financial Education: Gaining a Fresh Start After Bankruptcy (2024) (English/Español)

Personal Bankruptcy: Is it Right For You? (2022) (English) (Spanish)

Bancarrota Personal: ¿Es Conveniente Para Usted? (2021)

Bankruptcy: Guide to Residential Evictions (2018)

Bankruptcy Basics: A Guide For Employees Whose Employer Files For Bankruptcy (2022)

Bankruptcy: Understanding Reaffirmation Agreements (2013)

Bankruptcy: Obtaining an Economic Fresh Start after Covid-19 (Video 2022)

Preparing for Bankruptcy (2024)

Financial Education Resources

Financial Literacy For Veterans Presentation (2020)

Financial Literacy Guide (2020)

Know Your Rights: Federal Debt Collection Protections (2022) (English/Español)

Know Your Rights: New York State Debt Collection Protections (2022) (English/Español)

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