Bankruptcy is a court-supervised legal process that helps people who can no longer pay their debts get a fresh start by liquidating assets to pay their debts or by creating a repayment plan. Bankruptcy laws also protect financially troubled businesses.
In North Carolina, bankruptcy is governed by federal law, specifically the U.S. Bankruptcy Code, which allows individuals and businesses facing insurmountable debt to seek relief through different types of bankruptcy chapters, most commonly Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 for individuals, and Chapter 11 for businesses. Chapter 7 bankruptcy involves the liquidation of assets to pay off debts, while Chapter 13 allows individuals with a regular income to create a repayment plan to pay back creditors over time. Chapter 11 serves a similar function for businesses, providing a way to reorganize and continue operations while repaying creditors. The process is overseen by a bankruptcy court and a court-appointed trustee. North Carolina has specific exemptions that protect certain assets from being sold in a Chapter 7 bankruptcy, and these exemptions are outlined in the state's statutes. It's important to consult with an attorney to understand how North Carolina's exemptions may apply to an individual's situation and to navigate the complexities of the bankruptcy process.