WHAT IS A CHAPTER 7 DISCHARGE AND ARE THERE ANY DEBTS THAT CAN'T BE DISCHARGED?

When researching Chapter 7 bankruptcy options, one will often come across the term "discharge." The term is often associated with the fresh start that Chapter 7 bankruptcy provides. So what exactly is a discharge and are there any debts that are ineligible for discharge? A discharge releases one from the personal liability associated with certain debts. This means that one is no longer legally required to pay a debt that has been discharged through bankruptcy. Most, but not all, debts are considered dischargeable. In general, debts that are not eligible for discharge include: (1) student loans; (2) taxes that have come due within the last three years; (3) domestic support obligations; (4) debts for fines or penalties owed to governmental units; (5) debts obtained through fraud; and (5) debts due to DUI or willful or malicious injury. It should be noted that the above list is not all-inclusive and one should consult an experienced bankruptcy attorney regarding any concerns about the dischargeability of a particular debt. For any questions regarding Chapter 7 and/or the bankruptcy discharge, contact the experienced Douglasville Bankruptcy Attorneys for a free consultation.