East Orange is a city in Essex County directly adjacent to Newark. It is a predominantly African American community that has been working to revitalize its downtown and residential neighborhoods.
New Jersey uses federal bankruptcy exemptions exclusively -- one of the few states in the nation that does so. Federal exemptions under 11 U.S.C. section 522(d) apply: Homestead: $27,900. Vehicle: $4,450. Jewelry: $1,875. Tools of trade: $2,800. Wildcard: $1,475 plus up to $13,950 of unused homestead. Household goods: $700 per item, $14,875 total. Retirement accounts: fully exempt.
Exemptions determine what property you can keep in bankruptcy. See the full exemptions guide.
These organizations may offer free or low-cost assistance. Contact them directly to verify current services and eligibility requirements.
East Orange residents file in the District of New Jersey at 50 Walnut St, Newark, NJ 07102. The courthouse is approximately 10 minutes west in downtown Newark -- one of the closest suburbs to the courthouse.
The federal homestead exemption of $27,900 per debtor protects home equity. For many East Orange homeowners, this amount is sufficient to protect their interest. In Chapter 13, you keep your home while curing any mortgage arrears over 3-5 years.
Yes. Filing bankruptcy triggers the automatic stay, which immediately halts foreclosure and sheriff sales. Chapter 13 is particularly powerful because it allows you to catch up on mortgage payments over 3-5 years while keeping your home.
Use the free 1328(f) screener to check whether a prior discharge affects your eligibility.
Free Discharge Screener