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 New Hampshire, bankruptcy is governed by federal law, specifically the U.S. Bankruptcy Code, which allows individuals and businesses facing insurmountable debt to seek relief through various 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 them with the opportunity to reorganize and continue operations while repaying creditors. The process is overseen by the bankruptcy courts, and in New Hampshire, cases are filed in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of New Hampshire. Bankruptcy can offer a fresh start for debtors, but it also has significant financial implications, including impacts on credit scores and the ability to obtain future credit. It is advisable to consult with an attorney to understand the full implications of filing for bankruptcy and to navigate the complex legal process.