Bankruptcy can give you a fresh start after struggling for years under the stress and pressure of overwhelming debt. However, to get the most out of your bankruptcy and to ensure the process runs smoothly, there are some common mistakes to avoid. Below, the bankruptcy attorney, C. Roland Krueger, Attorney and Counselor at Law, in Lexington, North Carolina, discusses three of these mistakes in greater detail.

3 Common Mistakes People Make When Filing for Bankruptcy

1. Running Up Credit Card Balances

If you've already decided to file for bankruptcy, you may be tempted to make use of your credit cards while you still have them and rack up some major purchases. While the temptation is understandable, it is in no way advisable to up your debt even more and knowingly deceive your creditors. Bankruptcy courts look at your credit card activity in the months leading up to your filing. They must approve your bankruptcy discharge, so don't give them any reason to doubt your motives or your need for a second chance.

2. Transferring Property Out of Your Name

If you have a precious piece of real estate you want to hang onto and don’t want to subject it to possible liquidation in your bankruptcy, don’t transfer the property into the name of someone you trust. No matter how logical that may sound, it is not in any way legal. It is considered an attempt to defraud the bankruptcy courts. Everything you own, including all assets and property, must be inventoried and accounted for in your bankruptcy. If a trustee finds evidence that you've transferred property to someone else as a way of hiding your ownership, you risk having your bankruptcy denied.

3. Not Honoring Court Dates

If you've filed for bankruptcy, you will have a court date. In most cases, it is a straightforward hearing, and your bankruptcy attorney will be by your side. Make sure that you show up; not honoring your court date will make you look bad in the eyes of the judge. Also, if a creditor is suing you for nonpayment, don't assume your bankruptcy filing overrules your responsibility to show up to appointed court dates—your bankruptcy lawyer will ensure you know your options and have legal protection.

Bankruptcy is a viable path to debt relief. Let bankruptcy attorney, C. Roland Krueger, Attorney and Counselor at Law, be your advocate throughout the debt elimination process. Call (336) 248-8464, visit him online, or send him a message on Facebook or Twitter to schedule an initial consultation today.