Can a Debtor Go to Jail for Debts?

There are some severe penalties that a debtor may face if they don’t pay their debts on time. Particularly, a debtor may have their wages garnished, which means money is automatically taken out of their paycheck to cover certain obligations. Additionally, property tied to a secured debt may be foreclosed or repossessed if a debtor falls behind on their payments. However, there are some ways in which a debtor can actually be charged with criminal allegations if they don’t pay certain debts or follow legal orders from a court.

A debtor falling behind on payments so far as to incur punishments from creditors or the law may want to carefully consider filing for bankruptcy. If bankruptcy protection is the kind of help you need, we may be able to help you through this process. For more information about our full range of legal services for debtors looking to reestablish their finances or avoid criminal problems, contact Florida bankruptcy lawyer Ryan J. Really, Attorney at Law, PLLC, today at (239) 237-0675.

Criminal Concerns with Overwhelming Debt

It’s rare for a debtor to go to jail because of their debts. However, debtors should remember that certain types of debt are backed by court orders. When the court’s directions are violated, a debtor can possibly be held for a short jail sentence. These instances include the following:

  • Failing to appear in court if summoned due to missed child support payments
  • Failing to appear in court for a debtor’s examination
  • Not paying income taxes or defrauding the IRS

In many cases, these penalties can be avoided altogether if a debtor simply obeys the court’s directions or pays the government the taxes that are due. If problems arise because of a severe financial problem, a debtor may want to seek protection through a bankruptcy filing in order to sort out whatever financial troubles they have.

Contact Us

If you’re facing debt problems that have drastically impacted your daily life, it may be time to think about filing for bankruptcy protection. For a free consultation with an experienced legal advisor regarding your options as debtor fighting for a debt-free life, contact Florida bankruptcy attorney Ryan J. Really, Attorney at Law, PLLC, by calling (239) 237-0675 today.