Dallas bankruptcy blog

What happens in an initial bankruptcy consultation?

If you are struggling with overwhelming debt, constant collection calls, or the fear of losing your home or vehicle, the first step toward relief is understanding your options. At Rubin & Associates, we know how intimidating the idea of “talking to a bankruptcy attorney” can feel. That is why our initial consultation process is designed to be simple, straightforward, and pressure-free.

When you meet with us, you will get honest guidance from one of the most experienced bankruptcy lawyers in Dallas. Whether you ultimately choose to file for bankruptcy or decide that another solution is better, we want you to leave the meeting with clarity and confidence.

Since so many people ask us what’s involved in the initial bankruptcy consultation, We wanted to write this post to give you a detailed look at what you can expect during your first consultation.

How long does a bankruptcy consultation take?

Most initial consultations last 45 minutes to an hour. Some meetings are shorter, and others run a bit longer depending on your situation. WE prefer to spend as much time as necessary to understand your financial picture and answer all your questions. (more…)

By Mark Rubin|2025-12-01T16:26:33-06:00November 25th, 2025|Bankruptcy, Bankruptcy Myths, Debt, Financial, Texas Bankruptcy|

What is a bankruptcy trustee?

When people who are struggling with debt begin exploring the possibility of filing for bankruptcy, one of the first unfamiliar terms they encounter is usually “bankruptcy trustee.” Many clients ask us what a trustee actually does, how they fit into the process, and whether they’re there to help or to make things harder. Understanding the trustee’s role can remove a lot of uncertainty and help you feel more confident as you move through your case.

The trustee’s role in bankruptcy

A bankruptcy trustee is an impartial third party appointed to oversee your case. Trustees are not employees of the court, nor do they work for you or your creditors. Instead, they act as an administrator who ensures that all aspects of the bankruptcy process follow federal bankruptcy law and that all parties are treated fairly. (more…)

By Mark Rubin|2025-10-29T16:10:37-05:00October 29th, 2025|Bankruptcy, Bankruptcy Myths, Debt, Financial, Money Management, Personal Finance, Repossession, Texas Bankruptcy|

Can you file for bankruptcy without an attorney?

For many DFW-area families, it only takes one unexpected expense to cause out-of-control debt. When debt starts to spiral, many individuals and families begin to explore the possibility of bankruptcy. One of the most common questions people ask at this early stats is “Can I file for bankruptcy without an attorney?” While it is legally possible to file a bankruptcy petition on your own, it is never a good idea to file without the guidance of an experienced bankruptcy attorney. Bankruptcy is a complex legal process with high stakes, and attempting to handle it on your own can create significant risks. (more…)

By Mark Rubin|2025-09-28T15:04:12-05:00September 26th, 2025|Bankruptcy, Bankruptcy Myths, Debt, Financial, Foreclosure in Texas, Repossession, Texas Bankruptcy|

Can you keep your stuff in a Chapter 13 bankruptcy?

One of the emost common questions we hear from potential clients is, “If I file for Chapter 13, am I going to be able to keep all of my stuff?” If you are asking this question, I want you to know that you are not alone. This is one of the most common and most understandable questions people have when they consider bankruptcy. The thought of losing your home, your car, or even your personal belongings is frightening. When you site down for a free consultation with me, my goal is to explain exactly how Chapter 13 works, why you are generally able to keep your property, and which laws provide those protections. By the end of our discussion, I want you to feel informed and reassured that bankruptcy was designed to give people a structured path to rebuild. (more…)

By Mark Rubin|2025-08-31T12:28:38-05:00August 28th, 2025|Bankruptcy, Bankruptcy Myths, Debt, Financial, Foreclosure in Texas, Repossession, Texas Bankruptcy|

Which debts are covered in a bankruptcy case?

If you are struggling with debt in the Dallas area, you may be considering bankruptcy as a potential solution. One of the most common questions we hear from potential clients is, “Which types of debt can actually be eliminated or reduced in a bankruptcy case?” The answer depends on your specific situation, the type of bankruptcy you file, and the nature of your debt.

In this post, we will break down the types of debt typically covered in a bankruptcy case, explain the difference between dischargeable and non-dischargeable debt, and help you understand your options. (more…)

By Mark Rubin|2025-08-01T17:27:42-05:00July 31st, 2025|Bankruptcy, Bankruptcy Myths, Debt, Foreclosure in Texas, Repossession, Student Loan Debt, Texas Bankruptcy|

What is the means test?

If you are struggling with debt and considering filing for bankruptcy, one of the first things you will likely hear about is the “means test.” This test plays a central role in determining your eligibility for filing Chapter 7 bankruptcy. It was introduced as part of the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2005, and it was designed to ensure that individuals who have the ability to repay their debts do not simply walk away from their financial obligations through Chapter 7.

Understanding what the means test is, how it works, and what it determines is essential for anyone considering bankruptcy. Since this is a common question we hear from most clients, we will break down the key aspects of the means test and explain why it is important. (more…)

By Mark Rubin|2025-10-01T15:50:10-05:00July 28th, 2025|Bankruptcy, Debt, Texas Bankruptcy|

How long does a bankruptcy case last?

If you are struggling with debt and considering bankruptcy, one of the most common and important questions is: “How long does the bankruptcy process actually take?” Whether you are dealing with credit card debt, medical bills, personal loans, or the loss of a job, the length of a bankruptcy case can have a significant impact on your financial plans and peace of mind. (more…)

By Mark Rubin|2025-10-01T15:50:46-05:00June 27th, 2025|Bankruptcy, Bankruptcy Myths, Bankruptcy Statistics, Debt, Texas Bankruptcy|

Can you file for bankruptcy more than once?

Unfortunately, sometimes bad things happen to good people more than once. An unexptected hospital bill, the loss of a job, a reduction on pay, or any other financial setback can cause spiraling debt. Sometimes, lightning does strike twice. If you are struggling with overwhelming debt and considering bankruptcy, you may be wondering whether it is possible to file for bankruptcy more than once. The answer is yes — individuals can file for bankruptcy multiple times. However, the timing between filings, the type of bankruptcy previously filed, and the outcome of that case all play critical roles in determining your eligibility and what protections you will receive.

At Rubin & Associates, we understand that financial hardship can strike more than once, even for higher-income families. Whether you have previously filed a Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 case, it is important to know how the law handles repeat filings and how we can help you strategically plan your next steps. (more…)

By Mark Rubin|2025-10-01T15:51:18-05:00June 20th, 2025|Bankruptcy, Bankruptcy Myths, Debt, Financial, Money Management, Personal Finance, Texas Bankruptcy|

Does my spouse have to file bankruptcy with me?

One of the most common questions we hear from potential clients is “Does my spouse have to file for bankruptcy with me?” This question is especially relevant for higher-income residents in Dallas, Texas, who often manage complex financial portfolios and obligations. There is no rule requiring that a spouse also file for bankruptcy, but in certain situations, it may be benficial to do so. Let me explain the nuances so you can ease your mind and make a clear decision. (more…)

By Mark Rubin|2025-10-01T15:51:48-05:00May 22nd, 2025|Acquisitions, Bankruptcy, Bankruptcy Myths, Debt, Financial, Personal Finance, Texas Bankruptcy|

What is the automatic stay?

When you are struggling with overwhelming debt, the pressure can feel relentless — calls from creditors, letters demanding payment, even the threat of foreclosure or repossession. But filing for bankruptcy can offer powerful relief, and one of the most immediate and impactful tools it provides is the automatic stay.

The automatic stay is a legal provision that instantly goes into effect the moment you file for bankruptcy. It’s a court-ordered injunction that stops most collection efforts in their tracks, giving you the breathing room you need to get your finances under control. (more…)

By Mark Rubin|2025-10-01T15:52:14-05:00March 28th, 2025|Bankruptcy, Debt, Financial, Foreclosure in Texas, Repossession, Taxes, Texas Bankruptcy|

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