Ask your lawyer about the alternatives to seeking relief under the bankruptcy laws. One alternative is to contact your creditors to request a discount or additional time to pay. Another alternative is to seek the help of a credit counseling service.

These organizations, whether public or private, can help you manage your bills and work out an arrangement with your creditors. A third alternative is to borrow money to pay off your debts, replacing them with a single loan and one monthly payment. Such refinancing can make sense if the repayment period is extended at a lower interest rate.

Each of these alternatives has benefits and disadvantages that your lawyer can explain. You may find that bankruptcy is your best option.