One of the first things that I tell clients that are thinking about filing a bankruptcy case, is that they should explore all other "non-bankruptcy alternatives."  First and foremost, you should request current credit reports from Equifax, Experian (formerly TRW) and TransUnion. Those credit reports will identify your creditors and the amounts you owe them. Often, when you see what you owe in one place and in black and white, your total debt situation may not seem so terrible. Please read this Special Report.

     Creditors are always looking to see how they can get possession of your money.  Sometimes they may want you to sign "consent judgments" or other legal papers spelling out the terms of your agreement to pay.  In my opinion, you should avoid  entering into any written contract or consent judgments with creditors without  first speaking with an attorney since the paperwork you sign could contain admissions of certain facts or could waive rights.

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