Top

Atlanta Bankruptcy: What About Court Fines and Restitution?

Man looking at the envelopes

Question: I'm in a situation where I have too much debt. Not only do I have the sort of bills most people have like credit cards, car notes and a mortgage, but I have government fines and I have to pay restitution.

Basically, I have been convicted or pled guilty to some state and federal crimes. I'm not saying that I was really guilty; I'm just stating that I have to pay fines and restitution. I was not accused of doing anything violent just some fraud, embezzlement and insider trading. I got caught up with some bad folks and I was accused of some crimes. I had to go to court in Atlanta.

Anyway, the fines and restitution are very high. I owe the government and courts a lot of money. If I didn't have to pay them, I'd have enough cash to pay my bills. But now I'm falling behind on everything and debt collectors are always calling.

Is there any way to get rid of the fines and restitution if I file a bankruptcy? I really need to know because I'm looking at a foreclosure soon. I live in Atlanta. I used to live in Buckhead but now I live in Midtown and work at a furniture store.

Answer: Court-ordered fines, fees and restitution are not dischargeable in a bankruptcy filing. We have gotten this question in many different contexts. We have been asked whether fines and other charges are dischargeable when imposed by a probate court, a municipal court, a magistrate court, a state court, a superior court or a federal court. To be clear, in each case the fines, fees, costs, surcharges and restitution are non-dischargeable through filing bankruptcy.

About Us

Looking for a skilled and experienced Atlanta bankruptcy lawyer? If so, we are here to help you address your debt issues. We are available 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. Just call the Sherman Law Group at (678) 712-8561.

Our deep experience really helps our clients. Having served as a Magistrate Judge, a Senior Assistant County Attorney and an Assistant Attorney General means we have the experience and knowledge to help you, whether you need a bankruptcy attorney in Atlanta or throughout the metro area and North Georgia.

Categories: 
Related Posts
  • Georgia Bankruptcy: Potential Problems in a Hot Housing Market for Chapter 7 Filers Read More
  • Georgia Bankruptcy: FAQ's about the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Read More
  • Atlanta Bankruptcy: What Can Filing Bankruptcy Do to Help Me? Read More
/

Contact Our Offices

Whether you have questions or you’re ready to get started, our legal team is ready to help. Complete our form below or call us at (678) 712-8561.

  • Please enter your first name.
  • Please enter your last name.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please enter a message.