My driver's license in IL is suspended because I owe a substantial amount in parking tickets. I have been advised by lawyers that a chapter 13 bankruptcy will reinstate my license. Is it tough to make this work? How much would it cost for legal fees, and what will it take to convince the judge to approve the bankruptcy?
Well, you really have received some poor advice…..
First, you have to prove that you have NO ability now or in the future to pay off your debts. You have to show that your job will never pay enough money – and that you won't receive raises.
You have to show that the debts you owe are more than your income would permit paying.
Then, if the Judge lets you declare 13, you will have a credit rating in the toilet – where it will stay for 10 years. This means no credit – anywhere, for anything. It can mean you will have difficulty finding an apartment (landlords won't rent to you because you are not considered reliable), you will not be able to have a bank account. Many companies won't hire you if you have bankruptcy in your records.
Why don't you just pay the dam tickets. Make arrangements to pay your debt off a little at a time. If you had paid them in the first place, you wouldn't be in this bind.
Bankruptcy, while it MIGHT restore your license, will ruin you for years.
And, you might want to check further….I don't think a bankruptcy forgives things like fines, tickets, etc. I know it won't forgive any IRS debts.
