Bankruptcy, Criminal Fines and Restitution
Bankruptcy does not write off criminal fines or restitution. But it can help by writing off other debts so you can pay crucial expenses.
The Criminal Action Exception to the Automatic Stay
The automatic stay immediately stops most collection actions when you file bankruptcy. But it doesn't stop a "criminal action or proceeding."
Exceptions to the Automatic Stay
The "automatic stay" immediately stops most collection actions by most creditors when you file bankruptcy. But here are some key exceptions.
Making Sense of Bankruptcy: How Neither Chapter 7 nor Chapter 13 Can Write off Debts from a Criminal Conviction But Can Still Provide Crucial Help
Bankruptcy can allow you to focus on your criminal defense costs and debts, as well as potentially avoid other expenses and obligations.
Debts from a Criminal Conviction Can’t Be Written Off in Bankruptcy, But a Bankruptcy Can Still Help
Three ways bankruptcy can help: 1) write off debts to focus on defense costs, 2) pay only the most important debts and expenses, and 3) reduce chance of related civil liability.