Questions answered by Matthew Scott Berkus

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Can a foreclosure affect your credit report after filing Ch 7 and it being fully discharged?

Matthew's answer | Answered on August 27, 2013

If the bankruptcy discharge occurs before foreclosure, then the foreclosure does not show on your credit report. Note, that doesn't mean it didn't...

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If I have a judgment filed against me. Is it too late to try to negotiate a settlement? What strategy would one use?

Matthew's answer | Answered on August 27, 2013

1. You will need to go through the attorney. 2. Yes, the debt can be settled. But as with any settlement, it is up to BOTH sides to agree. The...

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Is a collection agency required by law to cash checks sent to them for less than the amount owed?

Matthew's answer | Answered on August 27, 2013

You asked: "Was the collection agency required by law to cash the checks?" Answer: NO In fact, they could have cashed the checks and still sued.

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Are debt collectors permitted to do a hard inquiry for a debt over seven years old?

Matthew's answer | Answered on August 27, 2013

First, you are overblowing the impact a hard inquiry has on your credit. The real problem will arise if the collection agency attempts to re-age...

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14-year-old Federal Student Loan, defaulted, now on a payment plan with new servicer, & have future spouse liability concerns

Matthew's answer | Answered on August 27, 2013

I doubt what anyone says here is going to make a difference. You are correct, your debt is your debt. If he is smart, he knows that. The real...

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I have a hospital bill I offered to give a monthly payment they refused and want more can they do that

Matthew's answer | Answered on August 26, 2013

Yes. A hospital is not obligated to accept any payments. When you receive the bill, it is due in full. Unfortunately, you don't get to choose...

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I've had it with my bankruptcy attorney. I need some legal advice.

Matthew's answer | Answered on August 26, 2013

Here is some key advice...don't go to an attorney and throw your existing attorney under the bus. It indicates to the attorney that you are a...

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Can an attorney-debtor file a chapter 7 bankruptcy?

Matthew's answer | Answered on August 26, 2013

The challenge for attorneys filing BK is the accounting. In most respects, when an attorney files BK, it is no different than anyone else. However,...

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I have two questions concerning a credit card lawsuit in Texas already on here and would like to view the legal reponses they h

Matthew's answer | Answered on August 26, 2013

What?

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I am trying to find out what the statute of limitations is for my specific situation, I live in Florida.

Matthew's answer | Answered on August 26, 2013

1. Debt was NOT discharged in bankruptcy. 2. Understand that the statute of limitations only applies if they try to sue you. Other than that,...

Matthew Scott Berkus's Answers (15939)

Can a foreclosure affect your credit report after filing Ch 7 and it being fully discharged?

If I have a judgment filed against me. Is it too late to try to negotiate a settlement? What strategy would one use?

Is a collection agency required by law to cash checks sent to them for less than the amount owed?

Are debt collectors permitted to do a hard inquiry for a debt over seven years old?

14-year-old Federal Student Loan, defaulted, now on a payment plan with new servicer, & have future spouse liability concerns

I have a hospital bill I offered to give a monthly payment they refused and want more can they do that

I've had it with my bankruptcy attorney. I need some legal advice.

Can an attorney-debtor file a chapter 7 bankruptcy?

I have two questions concerning a credit card lawsuit in Texas already on here and would like to view the legal reponses they h

I am trying to find out what the statute of limitations is for my specific situation, I live in Florida.