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    <title>Phoenix Bankruptcy Attorney Blog | Arizona Chapter 7 Lawyer | Tucson Debt Relief Law Firm</title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/" />
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    <id>tag:www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com,2009-12-03:/2421</id>
    <updated>2012-05-16T16:46:49Z</updated>
    <subtitle>Legal blog shares news about Maricopa County bankruptcy topics, such as Chapter 7, Chapter 13, debt relief, medical debt and foreclosure alternatives.</subtitle>
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<entry>
    <title>&apos;Octomom&apos; Chapter 7 bankruptcy case dismissed</title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/2012/05/octomom-chapter-7-bankruptcy-case-dismissed.shtml" />
    <id>tag:www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com,2012://2421.247291</id>

    <published>2012-05-16T16:43:45Z</published>
    <updated>2012-05-16T16:46:49Z</updated>

    <summary>A few weeks back, we reported on how Nadya Suleman -- perhaps better known as &quot;Octomom&quot; for having given birth to octuplets back in January 2009 -- officially filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in the U.S. District Court for the...</summary>
    <author>
        <name>Clark Law Offices</name>
        <uri>http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/mt-bin/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&amp;blog_id=2421&amp;id=2781</uri>
    </author>
    
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    <category term="chapter13" label="Chapter 13" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="chapter7" label="Chapter 7" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="foreclosure" label="Foreclosure" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="nadyasuleman" label="Nadya Suleman" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="octomom" label="Octomom" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    
    <content type="html" xml:lang="en-us" xml:base="http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/">
        <![CDATA[<p>A few weeks back, we reported on how Nadya Suleman -- perhaps better known as "Octomom" for having given birth to octuplets back in January 2009 -- officially filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California.</p>
<p>Reports indicated that Suleman, who has a total of 14 children, cited up to $50,000 in assets and debts ranging from at least $500,000 to upwards of $1 million. Her debtors include Verizon Wireless, Southern California Edison, the Department of Motor Vehicles, DirecTV, the water department of the city of La Habra, her father, a gardener, Sylvan Learning Center and a private school, to name a few.</p>
<p>In recent developments, it appears as if the <a href="http://www.clarklawaz.com/Filing-for-Bankruptcy-in-Arizona/Should-I-File-for-Bankruptcy.shtml" target="_blank">fresh financial start</a> offered by bankruptcy may no longer be an option for Suleman as the bankruptcy court threw out her case just yesterday.</p>]]>
        <![CDATA[<p>According to sources, Suleman's original bankruptcy petition failed to include at least a dozen mandatory financial statements/documents. The bankruptcy court subsequently gave her until this past Monday to rectify this situation. However, after the deadline passed without submission of the necessary documentation, her case was dismissed.</p>
<p>It remains unclear as to why these documents were never submitted.</p>
<p>The dismissal of the bankruptcy case is significant because it results in the automatic stay being lifted, meaning her creditors are free to reinitiate contact and seek payment on debts owed. In addition, the previously postponed foreclosure sale of her home may now proceed.</p>
<p>For those unfamiliar with Chapter 7 bankruptcy, it is essentially a process whereby a bankruptcy trustee will collect and liquidate some of the person's assets. The income earned through the sale of these assets will then be applied to the person's unsecured debts and any remaining balance will be discharged.</p>
<p>Stay tuned for further developments on this interesting story from our Phoenix bankruptcy blog ...</p>
<p>If you would like to learn more about Chapter 7 bankruptcy or Chapter 13 bankruptcy, take the time to speak with an experienced legal or financial professional.</p>
<p>The following post is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as legal advice.</p>
<p>Sources:</p>
<p>The Orange County Register, "<a href="http://www.ocregister.com/news/suleman-354326-court-bankruptcy.html" target="_blank">'Octomom' bankruptcy thrown out of court</a>," Lou Ponsi and Doug Irving, May 15, 2012</p>
<p>The Orange County Register, "'Octomom,' mom of 14, files for Chapter 7 bankruptcy," Lou Ponsi and Doug Irving, April 30, 2012</p>]]>
    </content>
</entry>

<entry>
    <title>Bankruptcy filings drop in Phoenix, across Arizona in April </title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/2012/05/bankruptcy-filings-drop-in-phoenix-across-arizona-in-april.shtml" />
    <id>tag:www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com,2012://2421.246600</id>

    <published>2012-05-14T20:42:58Z</published>
    <updated>2012-05-14T20:47:41Z</updated>

    <summary>Recent reports indicate that the number of Arizonans who filed for bankruptcy (Chapter 7 bankruptcy, Chapter 13 bankruptcy, etc.) fell in April, continuing an overall decline for the first quarter of 2012. According to The Arizona Republic, there were approximately...</summary>
    <author>
        <name>Clark Law Offices</name>
        <uri>http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/mt-bin/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&amp;blog_id=2421&amp;id=2781</uri>
    </author>
    
        <category term="Chapter 13 Bankruptcy" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category" />
    
    <category term="arizona" label="Arizona" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="chapter13" label="Chapter 13" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
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    <content type="html" xml:lang="en-us" xml:base="http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/">
        <![CDATA[<p>Recent reports indicate that the number of Arizonans who filed for bankruptcy (Chapter 7 bankruptcy, Chapter 13 bankruptcy, etc.) fell in April, continuing an overall decline for the first quarter of 2012.</p>
<p>According to The Arizona Republic, there were approximately 1,999 bankruptcy filings in the Phoenix-area during April 2012 as compared with 2,748 bankruptcy filings in April 2011, a 27 percent decline. In addition, bankruptcy filings for April 2012 were four percent lower than for March 2012.</p>
<p>Regarding the entire state, there were approximately 25 percent fewer bankruptcy filings in Arizona during April 2012 as compared with April 2011, and 3 percent fewer bankruptcy filings in April 2012 as compared with March 2012.</p>
<p>(<a href="http://www.clarklawaz.com/Chapter-7-Bankruptcy/Do-I-Qualify-for-Chapter-7-Bankruptcy.shtml" target="_blank">Chapter 7 filings</a> were found to comprise 87 percent of April's bankruptcy filings here in the Phoenix metro area.)</p>]]>
        <![CDATA[<p>Experts believe that the primary reasons for the relatively steady decline in bankruptcies across Arizona -- filings have declined for 15 straight months on a year-over-year basis -- are an improving economy, lower unemployment rate, greater extension of loans by lenders and a continued focus on cutting costs.</p>
<p>"Families and business continue to cut costs to improve their financial stability," said Samuel J. Gerdano, executive director of the American Bankruptcy Institute. "As consumers and business remain committed to bolstering their balance sheets, bankruptcy filing rates will continue to decrease."</p>
<p><em>For those who may not know the difference between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13, we offer the following brief explanation</em></p>
<ul>
<li>In Chapter 7 bankruptcy, a bankruptcy trustee will collect and liquidate some of your assets. The income earned through this sale of assets will then be applied to your unsecured debts and any remaining balance will be discharged.</li>
<li>Chapter 13 bankruptcy is a viable option for those who want to repay their debts, but require some form of immediate relief from collections and/or additional late payment penalties and interest. In general, Chapter 13 accomplishes this by arranging a legal debt workout (i.e., 3-5 year repayment plan) that will be reviewed, approved, and managed by the bankruptcy court.</li></ul>
<p>If you would like to learn more about Chapter 7 bankruptcy or Chapter 13 bankruptcy, take the time to speak with an experienced legal or financial professional.</p>
<p>Stay tuned for further developments from our Phoenix bankruptcy blog ...</p>
<p>The following post is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as legal advice.</p>
<p>Source:</p>
<p>The Arizona Republic, "<a href="http://www.azcentral.com/business/articles/2012/05/04/20120504phoenix-bankruptcy-filings-decline.html" target="_blank">Phoenix-area bankruptcy filings decline in April</a>," Russ Wiles, May 7, 2012</p>]]>
    </content>
</entry>

<entry>
    <title>&apos;Octomom&apos; now in danger of losing her home</title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/2012/05/octomom-files-for-chapter-7-citing-nearly-1-million-in-debts-1.shtml" />
    <id>tag:www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com,2012://2421.244265</id>

    <published>2012-05-09T19:39:56Z</published>
    <updated>2012-05-09T19:51:03Z</updated>

    <summary>Last week, we reported on how Nadya Suleman -- better known as &quot;Octomom&quot; for having given birth to octuplets back in January 2009 -- officially filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of...</summary>
    <author>
        <name>Clark Law Offices</name>
        <uri>http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/mt-bin/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&amp;blog_id=2421&amp;id=2781</uri>
    </author>
    
        <category term="Foreclosure Alternatives" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category" />
    
    <category term="chapter13" label="Chapter 13" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
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    <category term="foreclosure" label="Foreclosure" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="mortgagepayments" label="Mortgage Payments" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="nadyasuleman" label="Nadya Suleman" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="octomom" label="Octomom" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    
    <content type="html" xml:lang="en-us" xml:base="http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/">
        <![CDATA[<p>Last week, we reported on how Nadya Suleman -- better known as "Octomom" for having given birth to octuplets back in January 2009 -- officially filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California.</p>
<p>According to reports, Suleman, who has a total of 14 children, cited up to $50,000 in assets and nearly $1 million in debts in her bankruptcy petition.</p>
<p>In recent developments, it now appears that Suleman, 36, may also be having housing issues, as an auction of her four-bedroom, three-bathroom house in La Habra was scheduled to take place this past Monday.</p>
<p>Fortunately for her, the <a href="http://www.clarklawaz.com/Filing-for-Bankruptcy-in-Arizona/Foreclosure-Defense.shtml" target="_blank">foreclosure</a> company requested to postpone the auction for two weeks, giving Suleman and her children a brief reprieve.</p>]]>
        <![CDATA[<p>Interestingly, Suleman entered into a rather unusual arrangement with the original owner of the home, Amer H.</p>
<p>Specifically, the two entered into an arrangement known as an all-inclusive trust deed, whereby Suleman -- the holder of the deed -- would make monthly payments to Amer H., who in turn would make the mortgage payments.</p>
<p>However, Suleman fell behind on her payments by 11 months and, therefore, Amer H., missed mortgage payments and the house entered into foreclosure proceedings.</p>
<p>Amer H. -- who is listed as being owed over $30,000 in Suleman's bankruptcy filing -- appears embittered over the current state of affairs and blames Suleman for harming his credit.</p>
<p>"They do not deserve it, these people," he said in reference only to Suleman and her father. "I helped them as much as I could. I feel sorry for the kids, but Nadya doesn't deserve [the house]."</p>
<p>The foreclosure sale is scheduled to take place on May 21 at Orange City Hall. It was previously postponed for undisclosed reasons.</p>
<p>Stay tuned for further developments on this interesting story from our Phoenix bankruptcy blog ...</p>
<p>If you would like to learn more about stopping foreclosure and/or Chapter 7 bankruptcy or Chapter 13 bankruptcy, take the time to speak with an experienced legal or financial professional.</p>
<p>The following post is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as legal advice.</p>
<p>Sources:</p>
<p>The Orange County Register, "<a href="http://www.ocregister.com/news/suleman-352984-house-home.html" target="_blank">'Octomom' house sale delayed again</a>," Michael Mello, May 7, 2012</p>
<p>The Orange County Register, "'Octomom,' mom of 14, files for Chapter 7 bankruptcy," Lou Ponsi and Doug Irving, April 30, 2012</p>]]>
    </content>
</entry>

<entry>
    <title>Arizona AG: Be on guard for upfront fees in loan aid offers</title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/2012/05/arizona-ag-be-on-guard-for-upfront-fees-in-loan-aid-offers.shtml" />
    <id>tag:www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com,2012://2421.242493</id>

    <published>2012-05-07T15:14:14Z</published>
    <updated>2012-05-07T15:18:45Z</updated>

    <summary>After several discouraging years, it appears as if the real estate market here in Arizona and across the United States may finally be turning a corner, as foreclosure rates are declining, home sales are rising and thousands of homeowners are...</summary>
    <author>
        <name>Clark Law Offices</name>
        <uri>http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/mt-bin/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&amp;blog_id=2421&amp;id=2781</uri>
    </author>
    
        <category term="Foreclosure Alternatives" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category" />
    
    <category term="arizona" label="Arizona" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="arizonaattorneygeneral" label="Arizona Attorney General" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="chapter13" label="Chapter 13" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="mortgagelender" label="Mortgage Lender" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="upfrontfees" label="Upfront Fees" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    
    <content type="html" xml:lang="en-us" xml:base="http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/">
        <![CDATA[<p>After several discouraging years, it appears as if the real estate market here in Arizona and across the United States may finally be turning a corner, as foreclosure rates are declining, home sales are rising and thousands of homeowners are finding ways to make timely mortgage payments.</p>
<p>Unfortunately, there are still unscrupulous business entities/law firms looking to take advantage of those people seeking some type of financial assistance in this improving climate. For instance, those with problematic credit seeking to purchase homes, those looking for help with fighting the effects of <a href="http://www.clarklawaz.com/Filing-for-Bankruptcy-in-Arizona/Foreclosure-Defense.shtml" target="_blank">foreclosure</a> and those looking for loan modification services are often favored targets.</p>
<p>Specifically, these unscrupulous business entities/law firms -- which can vary in the size and sophistication of their operations -- will often ask these people for large upfront fees only to offer little or nothing in return.</p>
<p>"It's a terrible situation. The people in society who can least afford to lose money are the ones [criminals] go after," said Arizona Attorney General Tom Horne. "The real issue is the upfront fee. There are questions of paying fees at all. But it is flatly illegal to charge a fee to modify a mortgage."</p>]]>
        <![CDATA[<p>Interestingly, Attorney General Horne indicated that complaints to his office about upfront fees have risen since February, when the state received $1.6 billion as part of the $25 billion settlement reached between the 50 states and five major mortgage lenders over allegations that they relied upon faulty procedures to foreclosure upon thousands of homes.</p>
<p>Here, unscrupulous business entities/law firms eager to cash in on the settlement may contact homeowners and promise them services (loan modification, foreclosure assistance, etc.) in exchange for upfront fees.</p>
<p>However, the Arizona Attorney General's Office is warning consumers that only those with loans with one of the five mortgage lenders (Bank of America, Citigroup, Ally Financial (formerly GMAC), JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo) are eligible for settlement relief, and that representatives from these institutions&nbsp;will be&nbsp;contacting eligible homeowners about assistance over the next few months.</p>
<p>In general, Attorney General Horne advises consumers not to provide any type of upfront fees, investigate the company making the offer before entering into any type of agreement and to contact his office with any questions -- particularly if the offer/upfront fee is connected to mortgage relief.</p>
<p>Stay tuned for further developments from our Phoenix bankruptcy blog ...</p>
<p>If you are facing foreclosure, you should strongly consider contacting an experienced bankruptcy attorney to learn more about your rights and your options under Chapter 13 bankruptcy.</p>
<p>This post is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as legal advice.</p>
<p>Source:</p>
<p>The Arizona Republic, "<a href="http://www.azcentral.com/business/articles/2012/04/19/20120419up-front-fee-loan-aid-red-flag.html" target="_blank">Upfront fee for loan aid is a red flag</a>," Robert Anglen, May 5, 2012</p>]]>
    </content>
</entry>

<entry>
    <title>&apos;Octomom&apos; files for Chapter 7, citing nearly $1 million in debts</title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/2012/05/octomom-files-for-chapter-7-citing-nearly-1-million-in-debts.shtml" />
    <id>tag:www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com,2012://2421.240516</id>

    <published>2012-05-02T18:34:08Z</published>
    <updated>2012-05-02T18:39:57Z</updated>

    <summary>Earlier this week, Nadya Suleman -- perhaps better known as &quot;Octomom&quot; for having given birth to octuplets back in January 2009 -- officially filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California. According...</summary>
    <author>
        <name>Clark Law Offices</name>
        <uri>http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/mt-bin/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&amp;blog_id=2421&amp;id=2781</uri>
    </author>
    
        <category term="Chapter 7 Bankruptcy" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category" />
    
    <category term="chapter13" label="Chapter 13" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="chapter7" label="Chapter 7" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="foreclosure" label="Foreclosure" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="mortgagepayments" label="Mortgage Payments" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="nadyasuleman" label="Nadya Suleman" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="octomom" label="Octomom" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    
    <content type="html" xml:lang="en-us" xml:base="http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/">
        <![CDATA[<p>Earlier this week, Nadya Suleman -- perhaps better known as "Octomom" for having given birth to octuplets back in January 2009 -- officially filed for <a href="http://www.clarklawaz.com/Chapter-7-Bankruptcy/" target="_blank">Chapter 7 bankruptcy</a> in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California.</p>
<p>According to reports, Suleman, who has a total of 14 children, cited up to $50,000 in assets and nearly $1 million in debts. Her debtors include Verizon Wireless, Southern California Edison, the Department of Motor Vehicles, DirecTV, the water department of the city of La Habra, her father, a gardener, and a private school, to name a few.</p>
<p>"I have had to make some very difficult decisions this year, and filing Chapter 7 was one of them," said Suleman through a released statement. "But I have to do what is best for my children, and I need a fresh start."</p>]]>
        <![CDATA[<p>For those unfamiliar with Chapter 7 bankruptcy, it is essentially a process whereby a bankruptcy trustee will collect and liquidate some of the person's assets. The income earned through the sale of these assets will then be applied to the person's unsecured debts and any remaining balance will be discharged.</p>
<p>Unfortunately, it also appears that Suleman, 36, may be having housing issues, as she is listed as owing over $30,000 to Amer H., the man who previously owned the four-bedroom, three-bathroom house in which she currently resides.</p>
<p>Evidently, the two entered an arrangement known as an all-inclusive trust deed, whereby Suleman -- the holder of the deed -- would make monthly payments to Amer H., who in turn would make the mortgage payments.</p>
<p>However, Suleman fell behind on her payments by 11 months and, therefore, Amer H., missed mortgage payments and the house entered into foreclosure proceedings.</p>
<p>Stay tuned for further developments on this interesting story from our Phoenix bankruptcy blog ...</p>
<p>If you would like to learn more about Chapter 7 bankruptcy or Chapter 13 bankruptcy, take the time to speak with an experienced legal or financial professional.</p>
<p>The following post is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as legal advice.</p>
<p>Source:</p>
<p>The Orange County Register, "<a href="http://www.ocregister.com/articles/suleman-351753-chapter-through.html" target="_blank">'Octomom,' mom of 14, files for Chapter 7 bankruptcy</a>," Lou Ponsi and Doug Irving, April 30, 2012</p>]]>
    </content>
</entry>

<entry>
    <title>Famous designer&apos;s retail brand files for Chapter 11</title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/2012/04/famous-designers-retail-brand-files-for-chapter-11.shtml" />
    <id>tag:www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com,2012://2421.239191</id>

    <published>2012-04-30T14:09:30Z</published>
    <updated>2012-04-30T14:12:43Z</updated>

    <summary>A popular retail chain founded by a world-famous fashion designer will likely be shuttering its doors here in Arizona. Last week, Betsey Johnson LLC officially sought bankruptcy protection. Specifically, the company -- whose Betsey Johnson stores can be found in...</summary>
    <author>
        <name>Clark Law Offices</name>
        <uri>http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/mt-bin/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&amp;blog_id=2421&amp;id=2781</uri>
    </author>
    
        <category term="Bankruptcy" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category" />
    
    <category term="arizona" label="Arizona" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="betseyjohnson" label="Betsey Johnson" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="chapter11" label="Chapter 11" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    
    <content type="html" xml:lang="en-us" xml:base="http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/">
        <![CDATA[<p>A popular retail chain founded by a world-famous fashion designer will likely be shuttering its doors here in Arizona. Last week, Betsey Johnson LLC officially sought bankruptcy protection.</p>
<p>Specifically, the company -- whose Betsey Johnson stores can be found in shopping malls throughout the United States, including nearby Scottsdale -- filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, citing $4.1 million in debt and "severe liquidity problems." The company's largest creditors include Haskell Jewels, FedEx and American Express.</p>
<p>For the uninitiated, Chapter 11 bankruptcy is a form of bankruptcy in which a <a href="http://www.clarklawaz.com/Business-Law/Business-Debt-Settlement.shtml" target="_blank">business</a> proposes a reorganization plan that outlines how it plans to keep its operations running smoothly and pay off creditors over the course of time.</p>
<p>In documents filed with the U.S. bankruptcy court, Betsey Johnson LLC sought approval of $2.5 million in Debtor-in-Possession (DIP) financing, which would serve the purpose of keeping the company's operations afloat until a buyer or liquidator is found.</p>]]>
        <![CDATA[<p>Unfortunately, analysts are predicting that the bankruptcy filing will more than likely result in the closure of most of the brand's 63 stores, save for a few flagship locations in New York City and other key locations. In all, this could result in the loss of 350 to 400 jobs.</p>
<p>According to Steve Madden -- who purchased the intellectual rights to the brand back in 2010 -- the company will continue to be supported by his group and all existing orders will be filled. In addition, Madden indicated that even though the stores are closing, Johnson herself -- known for her vision, style and eccentricity in the fashion world -- will continue to design, and sell her brand at the remaining stores and in high-end department stores.</p>
<p>"While this particular licensee may be closing, the Betsey Johnson brand is stronger than ever, with a thriving wholesale business across a range of product categories," said Madden. "As the owners of the Betsey Johnson brand, we at Steve Madden remain firmly committed to Betsey Johnson -- the designer, her vision and our growing wholesale business - which is up over 50 percent so far for 2012."</p>
<p>Stay tuned for more from our Phoenix bankruptcy blog ...</p>
<p>If you would like to learn more about Chapter 7 bankruptcy or Chapter 13 bankruptcy, take the time to speak with an experienced legal or financial professional.</p>
<p>The following post is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as legal advice.</p>
<p>Sources:</p>
<p>Forbes, "<a href="http://www.forbes.com/sites/hannahelliott/2012/04/26/betsey-johnson-declares-bankruptcy/" target="_blank">Betsey Johnson LLC has filed for bankruptcy protection</a>," Hannah Elliot, April 26, 2012</p>
<p>The Wall Street Journal, "Betsey Johnson files for Chapter 11," Dana Mattioli and Katy Stech, April 26, 2012</p>]]>
    </content>
</entry>

<entry>
    <title>Study: One in ten children affected by foreclosure</title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/2012/04/study-one-in-ten-children-affected-by-foreclosure.shtml" />
    <id>tag:www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com,2012://2421.236763</id>

    <published>2012-04-25T17:12:47Z</published>
    <updated>2012-04-25T17:14:38Z</updated>

    <summary>Most studies concerning the foreclosure crisis tend to focus on such topics as its causes, the rates of recovery and the areas of the country that were most affected. While this is certainly important information, there seems to be a...</summary>
    <author>
        <name>Clark Law Offices</name>
        <uri>http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/mt-bin/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&amp;blog_id=2421&amp;id=2781</uri>
    </author>
    
        <category term="Foreclosure Alternatives" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category" />
    
    <category term="arizona" label="Arizona" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="chapter13" label="Chapter 13" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="foreclosure" label="Foreclosure" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    
    <content type="html" xml:lang="en-us" xml:base="http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/">
        <![CDATA[<p>Most studies concerning the foreclosure crisis tend to focus on such topics as its causes, the rates of recovery and the areas of the country that were most affected. While this is certainly important information, there seems to be a lack of studies examining the human toll of the foreclosure crisis, meaning the impact it has had on families and communities.</p>
<p>Interestingly, First Focus -- a Washington, D.C.-based advocacy group dedicated to helping families -- recently released a study examining the effect of the <a href="http://www.clarklawaz.com/Filing-for-Bankruptcy-in-Arizona/Foreclosure-Defense.shtml" target="_blank">foreclosure</a> crisis on children.</p>
<p>The results of the study reveal that many more children have been affected by the foreclosure crisis than we would perhaps like to believe -- approximately one in ten to be exact.</p>]]>
        <![CDATA[<p>Breaking the numbers down, the researchers determined that roughly 2.3 million children once lived in homes that were lost to foreclosure; 3 million are currently living in homes that are in the foreclosure process or are on the brink of foreclosure due to missed payments; and 3 million children currently live in rental houses on the brink of foreclosure or have lived in rental houses that were lost to foreclosure.</p>
<p>(The researchers also determined that 14 percent of children here in Arizona were affected by foreclosure, the third highest rate behind Nevada (19 percent) and Florida (15 percent).)</p>
<p>"Children are often the invisible victims of the foreclosure crisis," said Julia Isaacs, one of the primary authors of the study and a senior fellow at the Urban Institute's Labor, Human Services and Population Center.</p>
<p>According to the researchers, there are several unfortunate consequences of children being evicted from their homes, including the development of health problems, arrested development and decreased academic performance.</p>
<p>Perhaps the most alarming finding of the study is that researchers only examined U.S. Census Bureau data on home mortgage loans from 2004 to 2008. This means that the number of children affected by foreclosure may be even higher than these figures indicate and will likely continue to climb even higher as the glut of foreclosures is processed over the next few years.</p>
<p>If you are facing foreclosure, you should strongly consider contacting an experienced bankruptcy attorney to learn more about your rights and your options under Chapter 13 bankruptcy.</p>
<p>This post is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as legal advice.</p>
<p>Stay tuned for further developments from our Phoenix bankruptcy blog ...</p>
<p>Source:</p>
<p>CNBC, "<a href="http://www.cnbc.com/id/47102117" target="_blank">Report Estimates 8 Million Children Hurt by Foreclosures</a>," Julie Schmit, April 19, 2011</p>]]>
    </content>
</entry>

<entry>
    <title>The major league money problems of professional athletes  </title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/2012/04/the-major-league-money-problems-of-professional-athletes.shtml" />
    <id>tag:www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com,2012://2421.235348</id>

    <published>2012-04-23T14:07:35Z</published>
    <updated>2012-04-23T14:11:49Z</updated>

    <summary>It&apos;s an exciting time for sports in Phoenix, as the Coyotes are currently leading the Blackhawks in the NHL playoffs, the Diamondbacks are off to a good start in the young MLB season, and the Cardinals pick 13th in the...</summary>
    <author>
        <name>Clark Law Offices</name>
        <uri>http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/mt-bin/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&amp;blog_id=2421&amp;id=2781</uri>
    </author>
    
        <category term="Bankruptcy" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category" />
    
    <category term="arizona" label="Arizona" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="chapter13" label="Chapter 13" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="chapter7" label="Chapter 7" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="phoenix" label="Phoenix" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    
    <content type="html" xml:lang="en-us" xml:base="http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/">
        <![CDATA[<p>It's an exciting time for sports in Phoenix, as the Coyotes are currently leading the Blackhawks in the NHL playoffs, the Diamondbacks are off to a good start in the young MLB season, and the Cardinals pick 13th in the first round of the NFL draft this coming Thursday. While many of us here in Arizona, and across the country are deeply invested in the success of our favorite sports franchises, we often know very little about what actually goes on behind the scenes. As it turns out, many athletes -- whom we naturally assume to be in good financial shape after several years of playing -- actually end up on the verge of bankruptcy.</p>
<p>While this may seem hard to believe, a 2009 Sports Illustrated story estimated that up to 78 percent of NFL players are in financial peril or bankrupt within two years of the end of their playing career, while 60 percent of NBA players are in financial peril or bankrupt within five years of the end of their playing career.</p>
<p>However, the issue certainly isn't confined to football and basketball. Consider this short list of very famous professional athletes who have <a href="http://www.clarklawaz.com/Filing-for-Bankruptcy-in-Arizona/Choosing-the-Right-Bankruptcy-Attorney-for-Your-Bankruptcy-Filing.shtml" target="_blank">filed for bankruptcy</a> over the years:</p>
<ul>
<li>Mike Tyson (boxing)</li>
<li>Lawrence Taylor (football)</li>
<li>Antoine Walker (basketball)</li>
<li>Sheryl Swoopes (basketball)</li>
<li>Rollie Fingers (baseball)</li>
<li>Darren McCarty (hockey)</li></ul>]]>
        <![CDATA[<p>Why then are so many professional athletes -- many of whom earned hundreds of thousands of dollars or even tens of millions of dollars over their careers -- encountering such financial problems?</p>
<p>Typically, financial experts point to the following factors:</p>
<ul>
<li>The relatively young age at which most athletes earn the majority of their fortune, meaning at a time when they still have relatively low financial literacy</li>
<li>The tendency of many athletes to simply leave their fortunes in the hands of only a few people or take a hands-off approach to financial matters</li>
<li>The tendency of many athletes to eschew more sensible investment options like stocks and bonds in favor of more high-risk investments such as restaurants, real estate and inventions</li>
<li>Failed marriages and relationships leading to large alimony/child support payments</li>
<li>Expensive habits, including car collections and jewelry</li></ul>
<p>These same financial experts indicate that many athletes can help ensure financial stability by retaining the services of a team of independent advisors -- insurance expert, certified public accountant, attorney, etc. -- to help manage their finances and by simply making an effort to manage their finances wisely.</p>
<p>Stay tuned for more from our Phoenix bankruptcy blog ...</p>
<p>If you would like to learn more about Chapter 7 bankruptcy or Chapter 13 bankruptcy, take the time to speak with an experienced legal or financial professional.</p>
<p>The following post is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as legal advice.</p>
<p>Source:</p>
<p>USA Today, "<a href="http://www.usatoday.com/sports/story/2012-04-22/Pro-athletes-and-financial-trouble/54465664/1" target="_blank">Pro athletes often fumble the financial bill</a>," Russ Wiles, April 22, 2012</p>]]>
    </content>
</entry>

<entry>
    <title>Survey shows many college students lack full understanding of their credit cards</title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/2012/04/survey-shows-many-college-students-lack-full-understanding-of-their-credit-cards.shtml" />
    <id>tag:www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com,2012://2421.234465</id>

    <published>2012-04-20T20:30:13Z</published>
    <updated>2012-04-19T20:32:53Z</updated>

    <summary>In our last post, we discussed a recent study showing how skyrocketing levels of student loan debt are having an adverse effect on the recovery of the U.S. housing market. Specifically, the study found that young people are now diverting...</summary>
    <author>
        <name>Clark Law Offices</name>
        <uri>http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/mt-bin/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&amp;blog_id=2421&amp;id=2781</uri>
    </author>
    
        <category term="Debt Relief" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category" />
    
    <category term="collegestudents" label="College Students" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="creditcarddebt" label="Credit Card Debt" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="creditorharassment" label="Creditor Harassment" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="studentloandebt" label="Student Loan Debt" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    
    <content type="html" xml:lang="en-us" xml:base="http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/">
        <![CDATA[<p>In our last post, we discussed a recent study showing how skyrocketing levels of student loan debt are having an adverse effect on the recovery of the U.S. housing market. Specifically, the study found that young people are now diverting funds to pay off their education instead of paying for a house, and that many of them might not even qualify for a mortgage because of their high debt levels.</p>
<p>Interestingly, another recently published study reveals that an even younger generation of Americans -- college students -- are currently struggling with another form of financial hardship: credit card debt.</p>
<p>According to a study published in the latest edition of the International Journal of Business and Social Science by researchers from five universities, 70 percent of college students in the U.S. have credit cards and over 90 percent of them are carrying monthly <a href="http://www.clarklawaz.com/Debt-Relief/Dealing-with-Credit-Card-Debt.shtml" target="_blank">credit card debt</a>.</p>
<p>In addition, the study revealed that many college students were lacking an understanding of the basic terms governing their credit cards.</p>]]>
        <![CDATA[<p>Specifically, the researchers determined the following after surveying 725 college students in 2009:</p>
<ul>
<li>83 percent did not know the interest rate on their credit card</li>
<li>75 percent did not know the late payment charges on their credit card</li>
<li>70 percent did not know the over-drafting fees on their credit card</li></ul>
<p>"Our students lacked even basic financial knowledge of a common credit tool that many of our students used every day," concludes the study. "There is no way to describe these results as a success in education of financial literacy."</p>
<p>Hopefully, the results of the study will foster a movement toward improved financial literacy on campuses across the U.S.</p>
<p>What are your thoughts on this study? Do you think it's an accurate representation of most college students?</p>
<p>If you would like to learn more about debt relief or stopping creditor harassment, take the time to speak with an experienced legal professional.</p>
<p>Stay tuned for further developments from our Phoenix bankruptcy blog ...</p>
<p>The following post is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as legal advice.</p>
<p>Source:</p>
<p>Fox Business, "<a href="http://www.foxbusiness.com/personal-finance/2012/04/09/survey-students-fail-credit-card-test/" target="_blank">Survey: Students fail the credit card test</a>," Martin Merzer, April 16, 2012</p>]]>
    </content>
</entry>

<entry>
    <title>Student loan debt harming housing recovery, experts say </title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/2012/04/student-loan-debt-harming-housing-recovery-experts-say.shtml" />
    <id>tag:www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com,2012://2421.233393</id>

    <published>2012-04-18T17:44:00Z</published>
    <updated>2012-04-18T17:47:52Z</updated>

    <summary>As discussed in previous debt relief posts, many young people across the country are currently struggling with the problem of staggering student loan debt. In fact, Rohit Chopra, the student loan ombudsman for the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, reported in...</summary>
    <author>
        <name>Clark Law Offices</name>
        <uri>http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/mt-bin/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&amp;blog_id=2421&amp;id=2781</uri>
    </author>
    
        <category term="Debt Relief" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category" />
    
    <category term="consumerfinancialprotectionbureau" label="Consumer Financial Protection Bureau" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="creditorharassment" label="Creditor Harassment" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="studentloandebt" label="Student Loan Debt" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    
    <content type="html" xml:lang="en-us" xml:base="http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/">
        <![CDATA[<p>As discussed in previous debt relief posts, many young people across the country are currently struggling with the problem of staggering student loan debt. In fact, Rohit Chopra, the student loan ombudsman for the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, reported in March that student loan debt in the U.S. has now likely eclipsed the $1 trillion mark.</p>
<p>Compounding this problem further is the fact that the economy is still on less than solid ground, meaning unemployment rates are still high and many young people are taking lesser paying jobs.</p>
<p>While it may seem as if things can't get much worse, recent reports indicate that this crippling <a href="http://www.clarklawaz.com/Bankruptcy-Overview/Bankruptcy-and-Student-Loans.shtml" target="_blank">student loan debt</a> and current state of the job market are also having a negative impact on the U.S. housing market.</p>]]>
        <![CDATA[<p>Specifically, financial researchers have determined that while the costs of attending college and universities continues to skyrocket, the average wage of young workers has declined rather significantly.</p>
<p>To illustrate:</p>
<ul>
<li>Data from the U.S. Labor Department shows that before accounting for inflation, college tuition costs have risen nearly three times as fast as wages since 2001</li>
<li>Researchers have found that after adjusting for inflation, college tuition costs have risen nearly 57 percent since 2001, while the average wage of workers between 25 and 34 has dropped by 7 percent.</li></ul>
<p>"The explosion in student debt is a development that calls for a lower homeownership rate," said Pierre Lapointe, a financial strategist.</p>
<p>In other words, these experts believe that young people will have to devote a significant portion of their already limited income to their student loans as opposed to a mortgage. In fact, these high levels of student loan debt may prevent many young people from even qualifying for a mortgage.</p>
<p>It remains to be seen if our economy's gradual recovery will help rectify this unfortunate scenario...</p>
<p>If you would like to learn more about debt relief or stopping creditor harassment, take the time to speak with an experienced legal professional.</p>
<p>Stay tuned for further developments from our Phoenix bankruptcy blog ...</p>
<p>The following post is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as legal advice.</p>
<p>Source:</p>
<p>Bloomberg, "<a href="http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2012-04-17/-explosion-in-student-debt-drags-down-housing-chart-of-the-day.html" target="_blank">Explosion in student loan debt drags down housing</a>," David Wilson, April 16, 2012</p>]]>
    </content>
</entry>

<entry>
    <title>USDA rejects second potential sale of Yavapai Downs </title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/2012/04/usda-rejects-second-potential-sale-of-yavapai-downs.shtml" />
    <id>tag:www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com,2012://2421.231925</id>

    <published>2012-04-16T18:24:49Z</published>
    <updated>2012-04-16T18:28:12Z</updated>

    <summary>Last week, we discussed how Yavapai Downs racetrack -- a popular Arizona destination for both gamblers and equine enthusiasts that filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy last year -- was on the cusp of being sold under somewhat unusual circumstances following...</summary>
    <author>
        <name>Clark Law Offices</name>
        <uri>http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/mt-bin/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&amp;blog_id=2421&amp;id=2781</uri>
    </author>
    
        <category term="Chapter 7 Bankruptcy" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category" />
    
    <category term="arizona" label="Arizona" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="chapter7" label="Chapter 7" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="racetrack" label="Racetrack" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="yavapaidowns" label="Yavapai Downs" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    
    <content type="html" xml:lang="en-us" xml:base="http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/">
        <![CDATA[<p>Last week, we discussed how Yavapai Downs racetrack -- a popular Arizona destination for both gamblers and equine enthusiasts that filed for <a href="http://www.clarklawaz.com/Chapter-7-Bankruptcy/" target="_blank">Chapter 7 bankruptcy</a> last year -- was on the cusp of being sold under somewhat unusual circumstances following a bankruptcy-court auction held earlier this month.</p>
<p>Specifically, at the April 3 auction for Yavapai Downs, the winner was Gary Miller, the former president of the Arizona Horseman's Benevolent &amp; Protective Association, who made the high bid of $3.25 million.</p>
<p>However, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) ultimately rejected this high bid and a subsequent offer by Miller to increase his high bid by $250,000. Instead, agency officials indicated that they would attempt to negotiate with the next highest bidder, Texas horse enthusiast Joe Davis, who originally bid $3 million at the Yavapai Downs auction.</p>
<p>Now, it appears that the USDA's self-imposed deadline of reaching an agreement with Davis -- the afternoon of Thursday, April 12 -- has come and gone with no deal. As a result, the fate of Yavapai Downs is once again up in the air.</p>]]>
        <![CDATA[<p>At this juncture, it remains unclear whether Davis increased his initial offer during the negotiations with the federal government.</p>
<p>While it may seem strange that the USDA can effectively control any sale, the agency apparently has the last word due to the fact that it holds $14.7 million in loans on the Yavapai Downs facilities.</p>
<p>Experts agree that USDA officials will now likely meet with the presiding bankruptcy judge and bankruptcy trustee to determine how to proceed. Some of potential options include foreclosing on the track, continuing negotiations or perhaps having the trustee voluntarily convey the Yavapai Downs facilities to the USDA.</p>
<p>Located in Prescott Valley and owned by Yavapai County Farm &amp; Agriculture Association, Yavapai Downs filed for Chapter 7 liquidation in July 2011, listing $15.4 million in liabilities and $24 million in assets.</p>
<p>These assets consist primarily of the Yavapai Downs facilities, which include 300 acres of land, a grandstand measuring four-stories in height, a mile-long racetrack and stabling facilities for over 1,100 horses.</p>
<p>They also consist of the Prescott Valley Raceway (located adjacent to Yavapai Downs), the Yavapai County Fairgrounds (comprised of eight separate parcels of land 125 acres in total size), and millions of dollars in equipment.</p>
<p>The Arizona Horseman's Benevolent &amp; Protective Association is once again imploring the USDA to accept Miller's offer, arguing that by doing so they will save jobs and prevent Yavapai Downs from deteriorating -- something they say is already occurring as the roof is leaking and the electricity is shut off.</p>
<p>Stay tuned for further developments on this interesting story from our Phoenix bankruptcy blog ...</p>
<p>If you would like to learn more about Chapter 7 bankruptcy or Chapter 13 bankruptcy, take the time to speak with an experienced legal or financial professional.</p>
<p>The following post is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as legal advice.</p>
<p>Sources:</p>
<p>The Arizona Republic, "<a href="http://www.azcentral.com/news/articles/2012/04/13/20120413prescott-racetrack-feds-reject-2nd-deal.html" target="_blank">Feds reject 2nd deal for Prescott racetrack</a>" April 13, 2012</p>
<p>The Daily Courier "Racetrack files financial documents in bankruptcy case" Aug. 3, 2011</p>]]>
    </content>
</entry>

<entry>
    <title>Arizona had third highest foreclosure rate during first quarter of 2012 </title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/2012/04/arizona-had-third-highest-foreclosure-rate-during-first-quarter-of-2012.shtml" />
    <id>tag:www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com,2012://2421.230125</id>

    <published>2012-04-13T20:57:48Z</published>
    <updated>2012-04-12T21:01:31Z</updated>

    <summary>A recently published report by RealtyTrac revealed that the number of foreclosure filings in the United States in the first quarter of 2012 dropped to their lowest levels in over four years. According to the report, the total number of...</summary>
    <author>
        <name>Clark Law Offices</name>
        <uri>http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/mt-bin/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&amp;blog_id=2421&amp;id=2781</uri>
    </author>
    
        <category term="Foreclosure Alternatives" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category" />
    
    <category term="arizona" label="Arizona" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="chapter13" label="Chapter 13" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="foreclosurefreeze" label="Foreclosure Freeze" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="mortgagelender" label="Mortgage Lender" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    
    <content type="html" xml:lang="en-us" xml:base="http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/">
        <![CDATA[<p>A recently published report by RealtyTrac revealed that the number of foreclosure filings in the United States in the first quarter of 2012 dropped to their lowest levels in over four years.</p>
<p>According to the report, the total number of U.S. homes receiving a foreclosure filing -- including auction, default and repossession notices -- during the first quarter was 572,928. This constitutes a decrease of two percent from the previous three months and 16 percent from the same time last year.</p>
<p>RealtyTrac once again identified state investigations, increased judicial oversight and the foreclosure freeze -- originally instituted by the major mortgage lenders following revelations that they may have relied upon faulty procedures and/or deficient information to foreclose upon thousands of homes -- as some of the factors behind the steep decline in foreclosure filings.</p>
<p>However, RealtyTrac also warned that this drop is likely only temporary and that <a href="http://www.clarklawaz.com/Debt-Relief/How-to-Stop-Foreclosure.shtml" target="_blank">foreclosure</a> rates will likely start to climb well into 2012.</p>
<p>The reason?</p>]]>
        <![CDATA[<p>The historic $25 billion settlement agreement between the attorneys general of more than 40 states, federal officials and five major mortgage lenders (Wells Fargo, JPMorgan Chase &amp; Co., Bank of America, Ally Financial and Citigroup) essentially cleared the way for foreclosures to resume in earnest so long as certain requirements are met. Consequently, many more foreclosure cases will soon be making their way through the pipeline.</p>
<p>"The low foreclosure numbers in the first quarter are not an indication that the massive reservoir of distressed properties built up over the past few years has somehow miraculously evaporated," said RealtyTrac CEO Brandon Moore. "The dam may not burst in the next 30 to 45 days, but it will eventually burst, and everyone downstream should be prepared for that to happen."</p>
<p>In addition, the RealtyTrac report found that Arizona had the third highest foreclosure rate in the nation in the first quarter of 2011 with one notice for every 106 homes. Similarly, Arizona was found to have the sixth highest number of foreclosure filings in the nation with 26,956 homes receiving some type of notice.</p>
<p>If you are facing foreclosure, you should strongly consider contacting an experienced bankruptcy attorney to learn more about your rights and your options under Chapter 13 bankruptcy.</p>
<p>This post is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as legal advice.</p>
<p>Stay tuned for further developments from our Phoenix bankruptcy blog ...</p>
<p>Source:</p>
<p>Bloomberg, "<a href="http://www.businessweek.com/news/2012-04-12/foreclosure-filings-decline-in-u-dot-s-dot-to-lowest-since-2007" target="_blank">Foreclosure filings decline in U.S. to lowest since 2007</a>," Dan Levy, April 12, 2011</p>]]>
    </content>
</entry>

<entry>
    <title>Measure empowering credit card companies causing controversy in Phoenix </title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/2012/04/measure-empowering-credit-card-companies-causing-controversy-in-phoenix.shtml" />
    <id>tag:www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com,2012://2421.229432</id>

    <published>2012-04-11T20:23:43Z</published>
    <updated>2012-04-11T20:25:59Z</updated>

    <summary>Arizona lawmakers recently passed a very controversial bill that some are saying will further empower debt collection agencies, allowing them to continue their relentless pursuit of those people in desperate need of some type of debt relief. Specifically, the Arizona...</summary>
    <author>
        <name>Clark Law Offices</name>
        <uri>http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/mt-bin/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&amp;blog_id=2421&amp;id=2781</uri>
    </author>
    
        <category term="Debt Relief" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category" />
    
    <category term="arizona" label="Arizona" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="creditorharassment" label="Creditor Harassment" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="debtcollectionagencies" label="Debt Collection Agencies" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="housebill2664" label="House Bill 2664" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="phoenix" label="Phoenix" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    
    <content type="html" xml:lang="en-us" xml:base="http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/">
        <![CDATA[<p>Arizona lawmakers recently passed a very controversial bill that some are saying will further empower debt collection agencies, allowing them to continue their relentless pursuit of those people in desperate need of some type of <a href="http://www.clarklawaz.com/Debt-Relief/" target="_blank">debt relief</a>.</p>
<p>Specifically, the Arizona House of Representatives voted 33-26 to pass House Bill 2664 (HB 2664). The measure, sponsored by Rep. Jeff Dial (R-Chandler), calls for the following:</p>
<ul>
<li>Written or electronic signatures of cardholders or their use of a credit card establishes "acceptance of the terms and conditions of a credit card account"</li>
<li>Creditors may create "a presumption of the amount of the debt that is owed on a credit card account through a copy of the issuer's final billing statement or by the electronic data that is maintained by the issuer and that represents the amount owed"</li>
<li>Creditors may verify a contracted interest rate via 1) "terms and conditions that contain a stated or variable interest rate" or 2) "billing statement generated by the issuer that contains a stated or variable interest rate"</li></ul>]]>
        <![CDATA[<p>Not surprisingly, the proposed legislation is not being widely embraced by all politicians in Phoenix.</p>
<p>One vocal opponent of HB 2664 is Rep. Debbie McCune Davis (D-Phoenix) who is arguing that bill would empower -- and embolden -- debt collection agencies in their efforts to unjustly secure past due payments.</p>
<p>"If [HB 2664] passes, a debt buyer would be able to sue a person with little evidence," reads a statement on her website. "The lawsuit could proceed if the company had something as simple as a spreadsheet showing a name and an alleged amount due or a generic credit card agreement -- even if the debt has already been paid or dismissed."</p>
<p>Interestingly, Rep. McCune Davis has also filed a complaint with the Arizona Secretary of State's Office, alleging impropriety in the passage of HB 2664.</p>
<p>Specifically, she is arguing that the state Senate Banking and Insurance Committee -- which originally rejected HB 2664, but later passed it 4-2 after reconsideration -- was unduly influenced by an unregistered lobbyist.</p>
<p>Stay tuned for further developments from our Phoenix bankruptcy blog ...</p>
<p>The following post is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as legal advice.</p>
<p>If you would like to learn more about debt relief or stopping creditor harassment, take the time to speak with an experienced legal professional.</p>
<p>Source:</p>
<p>Courthouse News, "<a href="http://www.courthousenews.com/2012/04/09/45439.htm" target="_blank">Credit card companies get kiss from Arizona</a>," Jaime Ross, April 9, 2012</p>]]>
    </content>
</entry>

<entry>
    <title>USDA rejects sale of Yavapai Downs </title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/2012/04/usda-rejects-sale-of-yavapai-downs.shtml" />
    <id>tag:www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com,2012://2421.227614</id>

    <published>2012-04-09T14:27:09Z</published>
    <updated>2012-04-09T14:32:38Z</updated>

    <summary>A few weeks back, we discussed how Yavapai Downs racetrack -- a popular Arizona destination for both gamblers and equine enthusiasts -- was officially going on the auction block in early April after filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy last year,...</summary>
    <author>
        <name>Clark Law Offices</name>
        <uri>http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/mt-bin/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&amp;blog_id=2421&amp;id=2781</uri>
    </author>
    
        <category term="Chapter 7 Bankruptcy" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category" />
    
    <category term="arizona" label="Arizona" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="chapter7" label="Chapter 7" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="liquidation" label="Liquidation" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="racetrack" label="Racetrack" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="yavapaidowns" label="Yavapai Downs" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    
    <content type="html" xml:lang="en-us" xml:base="http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/">
        <![CDATA[<p>A few weeks back, we discussed how Yavapai Downs racetrack -- a popular Arizona destination for both gamblers and equine enthusiasts -- was officially going on the auction block in early April after filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy last year, citing both declining attendance and revenue.</p>
<p>Located in Prescott Valley and owned by Yavapai County Farm &amp; Agriculture Association, Yavapai Downs filed for <a href="http://www.clarklawaz.com/Chapter-7-Bankruptcy/" target="_blank">Chapter 7</a> liquidation in July 2011, listing $15.4 million in liabilities and $24 million in assets.</p>
<p>These assets consist primarily of the Yavapai Downs facilities, which include 300 acres of land, a grandstand measuring four-stories in height, a mile-long racetrack and stabling facilities for over 1,100 horses.</p>
<p>They also consist of the Prescott Valley Raceway (located adjacent to Yavapai Downs), the Yavapai County Fairgrounds (comprised of eight separate parcels of land 125 acres in total size), and millions of dollars in equipment.</p>
<p>The auction for Yavapai Downs was held last Tuesday and the high bidder was none other than Gary Miller, former president of the Arizona Horseman's Benevolent &amp; Protective Association, with a bid of $3.25 million.</p>
<p>Interestingly enough, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) filed records with the bankruptcy court last Friday rejecting Miller's high bid and indicating that it would attempt to negotiate with the next highest bidder.</p>]]>
        <![CDATA[<p>Specifically, the USDA stated that it will be conducting negotiations through this Thursday afternoon with Joe Davis, a Texas horse enthusiast, who originally bid $3 million at the Yavapai Downs auction.</p>
<p>Miller told a local newspaper that he was contacted by USDA officials last week and told that his bid was simply not high enough. He indicated that he offered an additional $250,000, but that this too was rejected.</p>
<p>"I was shocked and saddened," he said. "It is not a good day for racing."</p>
<p>While it may seem strange that the USDA can effectively veto the sale, the agency apparently has the last word of any sale due to fact that it holds $14.7 million in loans on the Yavapai Downs facilities.</p>
<p>According to experts, the decision to delay the sale date all but guarantees that there will be no racing season in Prescott Valley this year.</p>
<p>Specifically, the longer Yavapai Downs sits idle, the greater the likelihood that owners, trainers and jockeys will leave Arizona looking for competition.</p>
<p>"The USDA has its head in the sand if it thinks this thing is going to sell for more," said Tom Metzen, the executive director of Arizona Horseman's Benevolent &amp; Protective Association, of its rejection of Miller's $3.5 million offer.</p>
<p>Stay tuned for further developments on this interesting story from our Phoenix bankruptcy blog ...</p>
<p>If you would like to learn more about Chapter 7 bankruptcy or Chapter 13 bankruptcy, take the time to speak with an experienced legal or financial professional.</p>
<p>The following post is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as legal advice.</p>
<p>Sources:</p>
<p>The Arizona Republic, "<a href="http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/local/articles/2012/04/08/20120408yavapai-downs-bankruptcy-sale-veto.html" target="_blank">Yavapai Downs $3.25M bankruptcy sale vetoed by feds</a>" April 8, 2012</p>
<p>The Daily Courier "Racetrack files financial documents in bankruptcy case" Aug. 3, 2011</p>]]>
    </content>
</entry>

<entry>
    <title>Study shows consumer attitudes about credit cards are shifting </title>
    <link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/2012/04/study-shows-consumer-attitudes-about-credit-cards-are-shifting.shtml" />
    <id>tag:www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com,2012://2421.225686</id>

    <published>2012-04-04T18:06:43Z</published>
    <updated>2012-04-04T18:09:41Z</updated>

    <summary>One of the primary benefits of filing for bankruptcy is that it can help eliminate certain types of debt and provide people with a fresh financial start. In particular, one type of debt that bankruptcy can help people get under...</summary>
    <author>
        <name>Clark Law Offices</name>
        <uri>http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/mt-bin/mt-cp.cgi?__mode=view&amp;blog_id=2421&amp;id=2781</uri>
    </author>
    
        <category term="Bankruptcy" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category" />
    
    <category term="chapter13" label="Chapter 13" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="chapter7" label="Chapter 7" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    <category term="creditcarddebt" label="Credit Card Debt" scheme="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag" />
    
    <content type="html" xml:lang="en-us" xml:base="http://www.maricopacountybankruptcyattorney.com/">
        <![CDATA[<p>One of the primary benefits of filing for bankruptcy is that it can help eliminate certain types of debt and provide people with a fresh financial start. In particular, one type of debt that bankruptcy can help people get under control is credit card debt. However, a recent study shows that fewer people may now be seeking bankruptcy protection solely because of the need to get unmanageable <a href="http://www.clarklawaz.com/Debt-Relief/Dealing-with-Credit-Card-Debt.shtml" target="_blank">credit card debt</a> under control.</p>
<p>Specifically, an informal study performed by MSN Money and the website CardRatings.com discovered that almost 75 percent of Americans are now either cutting back on the use of their credit card or keeping their spending levels static.</p>
<p>Furthermore, the study revealed that of the more than 25 percent of people who are spending more on their credit cards, over half are only doing so to cover basic needs/living expenses.</p>]]>
        <![CDATA[<p>Both websites posted the following question from January through March: Are you spending more on your credit cards lately?"</p>
<p>The responses of over 10,664 participants broke down as follows:</p>
<ul>
<li>42 percent - No, I'm spending less on my credit card</li>
<li>29 percent - No, I'm spending the same in most categories</li>
<li>14 percent - Yes, on basic needs like food and gas</li>
<li>5 percent - Yes, on fun stuff like travel or toys</li>
<li>10 percent - Yes, on a combination of basic needs and fun stuff</li></ul>
<p>Why are consumers spending less on their credit cards or, more specifically, less on more enjoyable items?</p>
<p>Experts believe that the recent recession forced many people to closely examine their spending habits and focus more on paying down as much debt as possible to create a safety net, a trend that has since carried over.</p>
<p>In addition, they also point to the phenomenon of "involuntary deleveraging" in which many cardholders -- often with excellent credit scores -- saw their credit limits drop as lenders sought to cut costs and minimize risk.</p>
<p>Stay tuned for more from our Phoenix bankruptcy blog ...</p>
<p>If you would like to learn more about Chapter 7 bankruptcy or Chapter 13 bankruptcy, take the time to speak with an experienced legal or financial professional.</p>
<p>The following post is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as legal advice.</p>
<p>Source:</p>
<p>Fox Business, "<a href="http://www.foxbusiness.com/personal-finance/2012/03/28/are-using-credit-more-but-enjoying-it-less/" target="_blank">Are we using credit more but enjoying it less?</a>" March 30, 2012</p>]]>
    </content>
</entry>

</feed>
