More Strapped Homeowners Get a Break
Mortgage holders seek to avert foreclosures
November 30, 2008
Featured in: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Excerpt:
Rich Thompson, a lawyer [from Atlanta-based law firm Clark & Washington, P.C.] who specializes in bankruptcy cases, has noticed in the past few months an uptick in banks willing to work with people to stall foreclosure. Fear of losing their home to foreclosure is what often drives clients to seek out bankruptcy lawyers, he said. He said people who see him are typically 90 days or so behind —- about when the programs being offered would kick in. Thompson said clients often cite job loss, medical issues or a jump in an adjustable rate that got them behind. “A lot of folks are out there living paycheck to paycheck,” he said. “Their idea of a cushion is still having $1,000 on their credit card.” He said the renegotiation programs offered by the government and major lenders “could help a lot of people stay in their homes.” Read more…

Bankruptcies may spike before new law takes effect
August 19, 2005
Featured in: The Atlanta Business Chronicle
Excerpt:
Emory Clark, founding partner of Atlanta-based Clark & Washington P.C., which specializes in bankruptcies and advertises that it is "the largest filer of bankruptcy cases in Georgia," said his firm has not seen an increase in filings. Declaring bankruptcy, he said, "Is a 'nondiscretionary' type of activity. People hate coming into our office. They'll do just about anything to keep from seeing a bankruptcy attorney," he said. Clark said clients often wait until the "last minute" to file, which is why, he said, the Monday before "foreclosure Tuesday" is his firm's busiest day each month. Read more…