In Tennessee, residents struggle with crippling debt every day. After trying different ways to overcome their debt, many of these people realize that bankruptcy is their best option. A Chapter 13 bankruptcy is a great way to get a handle on your debt and keep some of your possessions.

In most situations, an attorney fills a valuable role of advocacy on your behalf when filing a Chapter 13 bankruptcy. He or she can guide you through the process, ensuring that your journey meets your current and future needs.

Another critical way lawyer guidance helps is by ensuring you make no mistakes when you are filing the necessary paperwork. On your own, your risk of making errors increases and may leave you in no better financial shape.

Mistakes to avoid during your Chapter 13 bankruptcy filing

• Accruing more debt by using credit cards or taking large cash advances
• Paying off loans to friends or family instead of paying down all debts
• Failing to let all your creditors know you have filed for bankruptcy
• Forgetting to meet the requirements of Chapter 13 (meeting timelines, etc.)
• Leaving out required pieces of documentation
• Failing to prepare yourself to live on a tighter budget
• Cashing in retirement accounts, which will no longer have Chapter 13 protection

A successful Chapter 13 bankruptcy can make a world of difference in how you feel going forward. Once you have a payment plan to follow, you can take comfort in knowing that you are finally meeting your financial obligations. At the same time, you will be able to hold on to much of what you have worked so hard to achieve.