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Bankruptcy basics
Chapter 7 vs. Chapter 13 Bankruptcy: How They Differ
Chapter 7 bankruptcy liquidates assets for creditors, while Chapter 13 creates a repayment plan, each designed for different financial situations.
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Free, general legal information to help you understand your rights and know when to get real legal help. Not a law firm, and not legal advice.
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Most common problems
The legal questions people most often face, explained, with what to know before you get help.
- Car accidentFirst steps after a crash, how insurance claims work, and what to know about hiring a lawyer.Read the guide
- Disability benefitsHow Social Security decisions, appeals and their deadlines work.Read the guide
- BankruptcyChapter 7 or Chapter 13, the credit counseling step, and what to expect.Read the guide
Start here
Where many people start: a job injury, bankruptcy basics, and how lawyer fees work.
Hiring a lawyerContingency Fees Explained: What a Lawyer's Fee Agreement Should Say
Contingency fees mean lawyers get paid if you win. Rules vary by state, and understanding agreements is crucial.
Government benefitsApplying for Social Security Disability: How It Works, and What to Know About Representatives and Fees
Understand Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) applications, SSA's disability definition, the process, and how representatives and fees work.
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Pick the problem you are facing. Each guide explains the basics and where to get real help.
More guides
Car accidents and injuriesAfter a Car Accident: First Steps, and What to Know About Hiring an Injury Lawyer
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Learn first steps after identity theft: reporting to FTC, fraud alerts, credit freezes, and checking credit reports.
Free and low-cost legal helpThe Fair Housing Act: What Housing Discrimination Looks Like and What You Can Do
The Fair Housing Act protects people from discrimination when renting or buying a home, getting a mortgage, or engaging in other housing activities.
Debt collectors and your rightsDebt Settlement Companies: Upfront Fees and Other Red Flags
Learn when debt settlement companies can charge fees, identify common scam warning signs, and find free or low-cost debt relief assistance.
Hiring a lawyerHow to Check That a Lawyer Is Really Licensed
Verifying a lawyer's license is crucial before hiring them. Learn why and how to check if a lawyer is authorized to practice law in your state.
Immigration help and scamsImmigration Help: Why a Notario Can't Give You Legal Advice
Learn why a notario público cannot give immigration legal advice in the U.S. and who is authorized to help you with immigration matters.
Free and low-cost legal helpFree Legal Aid: Who Qualifies and How to Find It
Free legal aid helps low-income Americans with civil legal problems. Eligibility often depends on income, and you can find help through online search tools.
Bankruptcy basicsBankruptcy Credit Counseling: The Course You Must Take Before You File
Before you file for bankruptcy, you must complete credit counseling from an approved agency within 180 days to qualify for debt discharge.
Debt collectors and your rightsDebt Collector Calls: When They Can Call and How to Make Them Stop
Federal rules limit when and how often debt collectors can call you. You can tell them to stop contacting you and report rule-breakers.
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