Published On: December 20, 2018
Lost? Never guess at which way to go because there could be hungry lions waiting around the corner.
Even experienced attorneys make mistakes when it comes to the interplay of bankruptcy and divorce
Whenever a divorce and bankruptcy come into play it is very complicated to determine which should be filed or completed before starting the other legal process. Even attorneys make mistakes. In the In re Kiley case the debtor’s failure to understand the law will lead to the loss of over $100,000 that may have been protected if the timing was done differently.
In re Kiley, 15-27838 (Bankr. D. Utah Dec. 4, 2018) (The Utah Supreme Court revoked certification in this case because the issues were not adequately briefed and because of the potential impact of the automatic stay on the property settlement at issue in this case.)
Bankruptcy court’s decision: As a result, the Court finds that other than the Support Payments of $113,777.78, the balance of the Divorce Award was a property settlement (the “Property Settlement”). Further, because the Debtor acquired, or became entitled to acquire, the Property Settlement within 180 days of her bankruptcy filing, it became property of the bankruptcy estate under § 541(a)(5)(B).
Section 522(b)(3)(A) allows exemptions under state law “applicable on the date of the filing of the petition.”62 The parties agree that on the petition date, the Debtor was not an “Alternate Payee under a QDRO.”63 It was only after the bankruptcy filing that the Divorce Court entered the QDRO defining the Debtor as Alternate Payee.64 Therefore, because the Debtor was not an alternate payee on the petition date, the Court finds that she did not qualify for an exemption under U.C.A. § 78B-5-505(1)(a)(xv).
The court orders the turnover of certain funds to the bankruptcy trustee.
MUSINGS BY DIANE:
The moral to this story is never file bankruptcy without understanding the hundreds of rules that pertain to your unique situation. Talk to two or three experienced bankruptcy attorneys and divorce attorneys before deciding what is best for you. Personally, I don’t know of one attorney who does both really well.
About the Author: Diane Drain
Diane is a well respected Arizona bankruptcy and foreclosure attorney. As a retired law professor, she believes in offering everyone, not just her clients, advice about bankruptcy and Arizona foreclosure laws. Diane is also a mentor to hundreds of Arizona attorneys.
*Important Note from Diane: Everything on this web site is offered for educational purposes only and not intended to provide legal advice, nor create an attorney client relationship between you, me, or the author of any article. Information in this web site should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from an attorney familiar with your personal circumstances and licensed to practice law in your state. Make sure to check out their reviews.*
“You folks are the BEST OF THE BEST in Arizona.” M.H.
You and Jay are the best attorneys I have ever had or needed and thank God for the Honorable Robert Gottsfield in recommending you folks – I would have never made it through the entire process without you and Jay and God Bless you both always and stay in touch as well. You folks are the BEST OF THE BEST in Arizona.
“My only regret is that I didn’t find Diane sooner.” K.H.
I can’t say enough good things about Diane. The way she handled my not typical circumstances was amazing. I was very nervous to start the bankruptcy process but Diane just has a very comforting way of explaining the whole process. My only regret is that I didn’t find Diane sooner. If you find yourself in a financial situation that you can’t correct on your own, please Call Diane Drain as soon as possible.
“Filing for bankruptcy can be a stressful life event” R.A.
Filing for bankruptcy can be a stressful life event, and selecting the right attorney can add to this stress. Diane and Jay were a pleasure to work with, and it is obvious that they are passionate about helping people get their life back on track. I would highly recommend them if you need a bankruptcy attorney.
Related Posts
Published On: May 24, 2023
“Best Experience Ever!” C.G. Answered all my questions and very knowledgeable team! Thank you C.G.
Published On: May 23, 2023
“Give her a call if you don't know where to turn.... ” B.G. Diane was an exceptionally nice lady and very courteous to my wife and I as we requested help. She [...]
Published On: March 28, 2023
DOD Announces Six New Measures to Enhance Well-Being of Military Force and Their Families Posting from the Secretary of Defense Release from US Department of Defense, March 22, 2023 [...]
Published On: March 20, 2023
“You were very nice and caring. ” R.G. I cannot thank you enough Diane for taking the time to speak with me. Your website has so much information and very helpful. You [...]
My intention is to put you back in control of your life
Start with $0 down*. We provide affordable payment plans.
