Attorney Peter Lawton realizes that financial stress often results from losses beyond most people's control. Unemployment, medical illness, divorce, death of a spouse are good examples. Many people call me to ask what to do even though they do not want to file bankruptcy. What bills should be paid? What can we do while we are on limited income? How can I best care for my family? Fortunately, wiping out credit card debt and medical bills allow hard working people to regain control over their savings and to begin repairing damaged credit. For most people filing bankruptcy is not a first choice, but it is often the best choice when it allows people to get a fresh start. Bankruptcy may be your best option if: ?You are using credit cards to pay family bills, such as food, clothing, rent - or if there is just no cash available after trying to pay your credit cards. ?Debt collectors are calling you at home, at work, or possibly your neighbors and relatives in an attempt to reach you - or if you have been served with a notice of wage garnishment. ?Your mortgage company has sent you a notice that they will be starting a home foreclosure - or if they have already foreclosed and are now saying you owe. Bankruptcy Myths: MYTH: Regular folks can no longer file for bankruptcy after the laws changed in 2005................................ FACT: You indeed can file bankruptcy despite the 2005 changes in the bankruptcy code. Many people ask me if they can file bankruptcy on their own (pro se), and although some people do, I always suggest using an experienced bankruptcy attorney. MYTH: Your home, car and possessions are not protected and will be sold to pay ..........FACT: In most cases, we can protect your home, your car and your other personal property. In the few cases where a client's property is unprotected (unexempt), the client will know well in advance and has the option of not filing bankruptcy. MYTH: Everyone will read about me in the newspaper and know that I've filed for bankruptcy.................................FACT: Personal bankruptcies are not published in any local newspaper. MYTH: I'll never be able to get credit, purchase a new car loan or buy a home ....................................................FACT: Most individuals are able to re-establish "good credit" within two years of bankruptcy discharge. MYTH: You have to have an extremely low household income in order to be able to file...............................................FACT: You will be required to complete a "Means Test" which will aid in determining your household income. Currently the income levels for RI are $45,222 (individual), $62, 806 (2 income household), these levels rise with the addition of dependents such as your children and other family members.