Yes. According to an announcement made by United States Attorney General Eric Holder on February 8, 2014, the United States Bankruptcy Courts will give legally married same sex couples the same status as other married couples in federal legal matters. In the United States, bankruptcy falls under the jurisdiction of the federal courts.
The decision applies to married same-sex couples seeking federal benefits. It extends federal privileges to same sex couples even in states that do not recognize same sex marriage as long as they were legally married in another state.
No, both parties on a joint mortgage do not need to file bankruptcy. They can file a joint bankruptcy or a single bankruptcy.
One spouse can file bankruptcy separately and both are held responsible.
Either spouse may file a separate bankruptcy. However, if they are joint debts the non-filing spouse will be responsible for repayment. If the spouse is the sole debtor the non-filing spouse might still be responsible if they reside in a community property state.
Yes, you can always file as an individual. All joint liabilities will be emburdoned on the spouse, but this may be changed by a divorce decree, and enforced by that.
A married person may file for bankruptcy without including a spouse. The particular circumstances governing the situation will dictate whether this is or is not a wise decision. Property held in joint names such as a house may not be protected from inclusion in the assets to be distributed merely by reason of being in joint names with a spouse.
The joint Bk would have to be voluntarily dismissed by both parties and then refiled as a single bankruptcy after the required waiting limit for filing is reached. When married couples reside in CP states it is best that they file a joint BK to allow full protection for both. In non CP states where only one spouse is the debtor the best choice is usually for only the debtor spouse to file.
If the couple resided in a community property state both spouse's would have needed to file joint bankruptcy for the debt to be totally discharged. If one spouse did not file, it is quite possible the creditor will hold that person responsible for the debt owed.
A husband (or wife) may file for bankruptcy separate from his or her spouse. Technically speaking, this should have no effect on the other spouse as they are filing bankruptcy for their separate debts and you will not be held responsible for their debts nor will it be reflected on your credit report, etc. It is important to note that those debts you held jointly will remain with you (the spouse that did not file for bankruptcy).
Yes, you can.
File it by yourself. Spouse does not need to file. Any joint debts will become her sole responsibility.
Yes, one spouse (rather than the couple) can file for bankruptcy when they have significant individual debts. Generally, this action by one spouse will not negatively affect the financial situation of the other spouse, nor will they be responsible for the debts of their spouse. It is important to note that those debts in which the couple is jointly and severally liable for will remain with the spouse that did not file for bankruptcy.
Certainly. Your spouse does not have to be part of the BK filing. However if there are joint debts, or if you live in a community property state the best option is for both to file.