
Can Only One Spouse File?
When One Spouse Files Bankruptcy
When one spouse has accumulated significant debt in his or her name only, that individual may file bankruptcy without the other spouse being forced to file as well. While this option has many advantages, it also has some disadvantages. It pays to carefully consider the pros and cons before making a final decision. An experienced attorney can help you determine if this is the right path for you.
At RHM LAW LLP , our lawyers will meet with you to discuss your unique financial situation. Our firm has helped thousands of clients in Southern California achieve reasonable solutions to debt problems. We recognize everyone’s circumstances are different and will help you determine the best route for you.
Your Spouse’s Income
If you file for bankruptcy but your spouse does not, your spouse will still need to provide information about his or her salary and assets. The bankruptcy court will use this information to decide whether you qualify for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy. If you do not pass the means test for Chapter 7, your spouse’s income will be considered when a repayment plan is developed for Chapter 13.
Your Spouse’s Credit Report
If you file for bankruptcy, your spouse’s credit may be impacted if you own any joint property. While credit reporting businesses are not supposed to penalize your spouse, it does happen. One more thing to keep in mind is that your credit could affect a loan or credit card application if you jointly apply with your spouse in the future.
Serving Los Angeles, Encino and Other Southern California Communities
When considering whether to file individual bankruptcy, it is important to consider various questions. Is most of your property owned jointly? Are you ready to file bankruptcy but your spouse is opposed to filing? Our bankruptcy attorneys will help you make strategic decisions to get real debt relief.
Call (213) 344-0043, or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with our bankruptcy professionals. We maintain offices in Los Angeles and Encino. For your convenience, we offer payment plans.
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We are a debt relief agency. We help people file for bankruptcy relief under the Bankruptcy Code.

RHM LAW LLP
Meet Our Los Angeles Bankruptcy Specialists
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M. Jonathan Hayes Senior Counsel
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Matt D. Resnik | Managing Partner Certified Bankruptcy Specialist
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Roksana D. Moradi-Brovia | Partner Certified Bankruptcy Specialist
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W. Sloan Youkstetter | Associate Attorney Certified Bankruptcy Specialist
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Russell J. Stong III | Associate Attorney Certified Bankruptcy Specialist
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David M. Kritzer Associate Attorney

Client Reviews
What Clients Say About Working With Us
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Dear Mr. Resnik: We wanted to thank you for your professional handling of our loan modification with GMAC mortgage. We are very happy that you were able to accomplish the modification of our loan in such a short period of time. Thank you again for your professional service.
- W and B Mejia -
I needed a bankruptcy attorney in Sherman Oaks and found Matt Resnik on Google. He has one of the best-reviewed bankruptcy law firms on Yelp so I decided to check it out his law firm for myself. I quickly found out that they are foreclosure specialists and they could help me with my issue. They made the process very easy for me and laid out my options for me. I cannot thank them enough for helping save my home. I would recommend them for anyone that is thinking about filing for bankruptcy or foreclosure on their home. They are the best bankruptcy law firm in Sherman Oaks.- Joseph R.
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Matt is the best bankruptcy attorney in Sherman Oaks. I consulted with Matt over a chapter 7 bankruptcy. I had issues with overwhelming credit card debt after Chase increased it's APR for no reason. It set off a chain of events that were really hurting me. He made me feel like I had options, all was not lost, and I could rebuild my credit after the 7. I had some concerns about a piece of property I was having issues with and Matt also turned out to be a real estate lawyer as well! I recommend this office to anyone who is unsure of their financial situation. It doesn't hurt to find out your options.- Max B.
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This is to thank you for the exceptional work of you and your fine staff. In managing my bankruptcy and loan modification, a nearly five-year effort, your performance was stellar. I never felt alone or adrift, key concerns in those circumstances. The outcome was outstanding. As the dank blanket of economic uncertainty continues to depress the hopes of many of us, I keep your business cards and number available for others. Without hyperbole, I can attest that you are present a beacon. Thank you so much.- K.C.
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Where to begin? I had a vile evil credit union repo my car over a misunderstanding, they wouldn't work with me even when I offered full payment plus repo fees (this was my first repo!) so I didn't know what to do. I met with a few lawyers but when I met with Simon he broke things down and gave me my options. I needed a car - so I filed BK and included the car to get it back. The evil credit union fought and Simon GOT ME MY CAR BACK!!! His team is amazing!!!! Maria Donna etc!!! These are top-notch pros that'll have your back. I cannot recommend them highly enough. Sincerely they saved my life. LA with no car!? ARGH!!!!!! *THANX ALL!!!!- Tim C.
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Matt and his team are the best!! They were thorough, extremely knowledgeable, wonderful to deal with, thoughtful, and really helped guide me through what was one of the toughest times in my life. I never felt judged or looked down on. They were efficient and really were lifesavers during this tough time. I can not recommend them highly enough!!!!- Rusty H.
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I worked with David Kritzer at this firm, and he was great. He negotiated on my behalf with a credit card company and was able to settle with them for much lower than I could have on my own thanks to his knowledge and expertise in the field. If you have a debtor on your back go to him to get it taken care of.- Kelly S.
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Was very impressed with the comprehensive professionalism of the firm, especially Matthew Resnik... I had suffered through the incompetence of two previous bk lawyers not to mention fees far greater than anticipated, without resolution. Having never gone through bk before, I did not realize how difficult it could be...then, my case was turned over to Mr. Resnik...almost immediately there was a marked positive difference. Where there was little to no communication, all of a sudden I am getting updates...regularly. Further, my case was finally discharged...yet, Mr. Resnik continues to communicate, offer assistance...and, has NEVER asked for additional fees, which I am sure he could have justified...much unlike the two previous attorneys with which I was dealing. I have no reservations, whatsoever, referring and recommending Matthew Resnik for any and all business or personal bk issues...or, other wise. I have no doubt that he will be transparent on helping you regardless of the problem. Good guy.. good firm... a wonderful experience!
- G.L -
Thank you for your great work on behalf of Ms. Johnson. Without the support of pro bono attorneys we couldn't do all the work we need to do, and your firm in particular is outstanding.
- Skip K.

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A Summary of Bankruptcy Law: Third Edition
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Summary of Chapter 13