Define: Automatic Stay

Automatic Stay
Automatic Stay
Full Definition Of Automatic Stay

Automatic stay is a legal provision that goes into effect immediately upon the filing of a bankruptcy petition. It is designed to provide debtors with temporary relief from collection efforts by creditors. The automatic stay prohibits creditors from taking any action to collect debts, including lawsuits, wage garnishments, foreclosure proceedings, or repossession of assets. It allows debtors to have a breathing space to reorganize their finances and develop a repayment plan. However, there are exceptions to the automatic stay, such as certain criminal proceedings, child support or alimony obligations, and certain tax actions.

Automatic Stay FAQ'S

An automatic stay is a legal provision that goes into effect immediately upon filing for bankruptcy. It halts all collection actions, including lawsuits, wage garnishments, and foreclosure proceedings.

The automatic stay typically lasts throughout the duration of the bankruptcy case. However, in certain circumstances, creditors can request the court to lift the stay for specific reasons.

No, creditors are prohibited from contacting you during the automatic stay. They must direct all communication and collection efforts to your bankruptcy attorney or the bankruptcy court.

Yes, the automatic stay can temporarily halt eviction proceedings. However, if the landlord has already obtained a judgment of possession before the bankruptcy filing, they may be able to proceed with the eviction.

Yes, the automatic stay can temporarily halt foreclosure proceedings. It provides you with an opportunity to negotiate with your mortgage lender and potentially save your home.

Yes, the automatic stay immediately stops wage garnishment. Your employer will be notified of the stay and must cease deducting money from your wages.

Yes, the automatic stay can halt a lawsuit against you. It provides you with a temporary reprieve from legal actions, allowing you to focus on resolving your financial situation.

Yes, the automatic stay can protect co-debtors in certain situations. If you file for bankruptcy and have a co-debtor on a consumer debt, the automatic stay prevents creditors from pursuing the co-debtor for payment.

Yes, creditors can request the court to lift the automatic stay for various reasons, such as if they can demonstrate that the bankruptcy filing was done in bad faith or if they have a valid reason to continue collection efforts.

In some cases, the automatic stay can be extended beyond the initial filing period. This typically occurs if you file for bankruptcy multiple times within a short period or if you can demonstrate a valid reason for an extension, such as ongoing negotiations with creditors.

Related Phrases
No related content found.
Disclaimer

This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.

This glossary post was last updated: 12th April 2024.

Cite Term

To help you cite our definitions in your bibliography, here is the proper citation layout for the three major formatting styles, with all of the relevant information filled in.

  • Page URL:https://dlssolicitors.com/define/automatic-stay/
  • Modern Language Association (MLA):Automatic Stay. dlssolicitors.com. DLS Solicitors. May 09 2024 https://dlssolicitors.com/define/automatic-stay/.
  • Chicago Manual of Style (CMS):Automatic Stay. dlssolicitors.com. DLS Solicitors. https://dlssolicitors.com/define/automatic-stay/ (accessed: May 09 2024).
  • American Psychological Association (APA):Automatic Stay. dlssolicitors.com. Retrieved May 09 2024, from dlssolicitors.com website: https://dlssolicitors.com/define/automatic-stay/
Avatar of DLS Solicitors
DLS Solicitors : Divorce Solicitors

Our team of professionals are based in Alderley Edge, Cheshire. We offer clear, specialist legal advice in all matters relating to Family Law, Wills, Trusts, Probate, Lasting Power of Attorney and Court of Protection.

All author posts