Craft Law Firm, Author at Craft Law Office - Page 7 of 13

When to File for Bankruptcy?

Posted on November 9, 2022February 4, 2026 by Craft Law Firm

Are there some situations where it’s best to file for bankruptcy? Though bankruptcy does depend a lot on personal finances, there are times when it’s typically best to fast-track filing.

Times You Should Probably Declare Bankruptcy:

The bank is foreclosing on your home.

Filing for bankruptcy can stop a foreclosure. Once you file for bankruptcy, lenders and creditors cannot continue collection actions – including foreclosure proceedings – against you.

Your lender is trying to repossess your car.

Again, once you declare bankruptcy, there’s a pause on the collection actions against you.

You moved states, and the exemptions are less favorable.

Each state has its own bankruptcy exemptions to protect you. If you’ve recently moved states and feel like the bankruptcy exemptions are more favorable, you may want to consider filing for bankruptcy.

You’re being evicted by your landlord.

Just like your home and car, filing for bankruptcy can temporarily stop you from being evicted. However, if your landlord already has an eviction order from the court, filing for bankruptcy won’t help you.

You want to stop a lawsuit.

This can include medical debt, credit card debt, car accident damage, or breach of contract. Filing for bankruptcy will stop the lawsuit in its tracks. However, bankruptcy cannot stop ALL lawsuits, so be mindful before filing.

It’s ill-advised to file for bankruptcy without consulting an attorney, even if you’re in some of the situations noted above! Craft Law Offices offers clients a free consultation so you can talk to a professional bankruptcy attorney about your financial future.

Don’t get stuck with debt you can’t get out of, or in a situation that will permanently affect your livelihood. Bankruptcy can offer you a new life and fresh start. To schedule your FREE consultation or learn more about bankruptcy options, call Craft Law Offices at 252-752-0397.

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10 Need-to-Know NC Traffic Laws

Posted on October 20, 2022February 4, 2026 by Craft Law Firm

It’s hard to know every law in your state – there are just so many of them! We’re bringing you 10 of North Carolina’s need-to-know traffic laws that you may have never heard of so you can stay safe on the road.

If you’re in a minor accident with no injuries, North Carolina law requires that you move your car over to the side of the road. This allows traffic to continue and makes it safer for the people involved in the accident. Failure to abide by this law can result in fines, and you could be taken to court.
You aren’t allowed to park your car on a North Carolina highway, in front of or near private driveways, intersections, or fire station entrances. This includes when you’re in your vehicle. The only reason your vehicle should be in one of these places is if it can’t move.
Texting and driving is illegal, but talking on the phone and driving is illegal for drivers under 18.
If you’re passing law enforcement or an emergency vehicle with its lights on, you are legally obligated to move over one lane. If you cannot do that, you are required to slow down. Failure to do so can result in a $250 fine.
I’m sure you know that you’re required to wear a seat belt, but your passengers are too. If your passengers aren’t wearing seat belts, it can result in a $25 fine (front seat) or a $10 fine (back seat).
You can get a ticket for going too slowly because you’re impeding traffic flow. It’s probably best to just go the speed limit to avoid tickets for driving too fast and too slow.
You cannot play in traffic, including using roller skates, toy vehicles, sleds, etc. The exception to this rule is if you’re using a bike or playing in a crosswalk.
If you’re in an accident that involves death, injury, or property damage of $1,000 or more, you are required to report it to law enforcement.
If law enforcement or other emergency services need to remove vehicles from the road, they are legally allowed to do so.
Driving through cemeteries is illegal unless you are there for a burial or visiting a lot.

Craft Law Offices is here to support you with your traffic needs. If you violate any of these laws and are now facing fines or traffic court, call 252-752-0297 for your free consultation with Leslie Craft.

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Get Out of Credit Card Debt in 4 Steps

Posted on October 11, 2022February 4, 2026 by Craft Law Firm

What do you do when your credit card debt is beginning to pile up more and more? Is there a way to get out of it? How? Don’t worry – here are four steps to getting out of credit card debt.

Find a payment strategy that works for you (maybe even two).

Examples of this can include paying more than the minimum requirement, starting with the smallest balance and working your way up, starting with the most significant balance and working your way down, or setting up automatic payments! The great thing about these payment plans is that they’re simple for you to work out on your own and you can double up.

Consider consolidating your debts.

One account, one monthly payment, one place. When you’re looking at a lot of funds with different amounts, it can get overwhelming trying to figure out what to pay where and when. Though the number of your consolidated debt may be overwhelming at first glance, it may help you in the long run.

Work with your creditors.

Reach out and explain where you’re at. Your credit card issues may negotiate payment terms or be willing to offer you a hardship program – you never know until you try! Either option could lead to more affordable, less daunting numbers regarding interest rates or fees. Plus, the worst they can do is say no.

Get help through debt relief.

This can include a debt management plan, a debt settlement, or bankruptcy. For credit card debt, Chapter 7 Bankruptcy can get you debt free. Chapter 13 Bankruptcy can help to restructure debts into a payment plan over 3 to 5 years and could be your best bet if you want to retain assets. Bankruptcy can stay on your credit report for 7 to 10 years, however your credit score is likely to bounce back in the months after filing. Some debts, such as student loans and tax debt, typically can’t be erased in bankruptcy.

If you’re unsure how to go about eliminating your debts or have questions about filing for bankruptcy, contact Craft Law Offices at 252-752-0297. Leslie Craft will answer all your questions during your free consultation. Call her today and let her offer you peace of mind.

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Failing to Stop at a Crosswalk

Posted on September 27, 2022February 4, 2026 by Craft Law Firm

“Pedestrians have the right of way” is one of the first things you’re taught in Driver’s Education. And though you may know the general rule, we’re here today to break down the laws and tell you the penalties for breaking them.

If there aren’t traffic signals, pedestrians have the right of way in both marked and unmarked crosswalks.
Drivers and pedestrians must obey the traffic signals – including stop signs and light cues.
Pedestrians have the right of way if they are crossing the street at a green light.
Drivers must yield to pedestrians if the light changes from green to yellow or yellow to red and the pedestrian is in the crosswalk.
Pedestrians who are blind always have the right of way.
If there is an intersection that has “Walk” and “Do Not Walk” signals, the pedestrian has the right of way when crossing if the signal is on “Walk,” even if they do not have a green light.
If there is a red flashing light somewhere other than an intersection, pedestrians have the right of way, and drivers must yield to them.
Drivers must proceed with caution if there is a flashing yellow light somewhere other than an intersection.

If you receive a ticket for failing to yield to a pedestrian who has the right of way (and, as you can see, they usually do). In that case, you’ll likely be ordered to pay a $100 fine with potential additional costs. Not only will you be fined, but four points will be added to your driving record, which can cause a significant increase in your insurance. If you end up with too many points on your record, you can risk losing your license.

If you find yourself receiving a ticket for failing to yield to a pedestrian or another situation where you’ll be visiting traffic court, call Craft Law Offices at 252-752-0297. Leslie Craft may be able to reduce your charge, fine, or modify your ticket.

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How To Recover from Bankruptcy

Posted on September 2, 2022February 4, 2026 by Craft Law Firm

We’ve heard rumors that recovering from bankruptcy is impossibly difficult, and that most people cannot recover. However, you can take steps to make sure that declaring bankruptcy is truly the beginning of your new financial journey. Though it won’t be easy, but it’s possible.

Steps for Recovering from Bankruptcy:

#1. Double-check to make sure your credit file is correct.

#2. Keep tabs on your credit report.

#3. Make your payments and make them on time.

#4. Avoid purchasing high-interest products.

#5. Don’t fall for the credit repair scams.

#6. Get a secured credit card.

#7. Get a regular credit card.

#8. Keep your balances low.

#9. Pay your balances close to their due date.

#10. Increase your credit mix in stages.

#11. Create and stick to your budget.

#12. Start an emergency fund (just in case).

#13. Be determined and be prepared for difficulties.

In a 2018 survey, LendingTree found that within one year of declaring bankruptcy, 43% of people with a record of bankruptcy on their credit report scored 640 or higher. Within two years, 65% had a credit score above 640. Considering 700 is a “good” credit score, 640 is not only acceptable, but a huge accomplishment!

Bankruptcy records will appear on your credit report for seven to ten years depending on the type of bankruptcy you filed. This is plenty of time to work on your financial recovery and improve your credit score. And just because you have a bankruptcy on your record does not mean you can’t still apply for a mortgage or a loan. Though it’s usually recommended to wait until you’ve rebuilt your credit score, it isn’t unheard of for people to be approved.

For more information on bankruptcy or to discover if bankruptcy is the right choice for you, contact Craft Law Offices for a free consultation at 252-752-0297.

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Roundabout Do’s and Don’ts

Posted on August 24, 2022February 4, 2026 by Craft Law Firm

We’ll be the first to admit that using a roundabout can be confusing. Here are do’s and don’ts for proper roundabout etiquette that will have you driving like a pro.

Be slow on your approach.

If the roundabout is empty, you don’t have to stop before entering and can coast right in. However, you always want to slow down and double-check. It’s nice not to be forced to stop the way you would have to with a red light or a stop sign, but you should still be slow on your approach to ensure that you and anybody else on the road stay safe.

The person in the roundabout has the right of way.

One of the most important things to remember is that the vehicle already in the roundabout has the right of way. And, just as you would if you were turning, you need to wait until there is enough space to enter the roundabout — kind of like yielding.

Give way to the left.

At a 4-way stop, you give way to the right. But at a roundabout, if two or more vehicles approach simultaneously, you give way to the left. If you forget, think about the flow of traffic!

You shouldn’t stop in a roundabout.

Once you’re in the roundabout, you should continue towards your exit and not stop to let anybody ahead of you. Roundabouts aren’t the place to try and let someone get in front of you because it alters the traffic flow, and the roundabout gets backed up. And, odds are, the person you’re trying to let in will be very confused.

Maintain an appropriate speed.

Centripetal force acts on an object moving in a circular path and is directed towards the center of whatever is moving – in this case, your vehicle. Remember, you’re driving in a circle, and you’re going to feel the centripetal force. You won’t want to go too quickly around the roundabout, or it may feel like your vehicle is about to turn over.

If you have other questions about roundabouts or other traffic laws, contact Leslie at Craft Law Firm for your free consultation at 252-752-0297 or visit our website at craftlawoffice.com. We’ll help you ace the rules of the road.

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Reversing the Stigma Around Bankruptcy

Posted on August 8, 2022January 30, 2026 by Craft Law Firm

Most people associate declaring bankruptcy with laziness, dishonesty, irresponsibility, and immaturity. This stigma typically turns people away from the idea of declaring bankruptcy. Bankruptcy tends to be seen as the finish line instead of the starting line. So, where did this stigma come from?

The idea that success = financial status.

This concept is flawed for a lot of reasons. Our society associates being wealthy with being successful. While promoting this, society is also ignoring much of what goes into becoming wealthy (socioeconomic status, resources, access to healthcare and education, generational wealth, etc.) This idea is the driving force behind the stigma that people who declare bankruptcy are lazy. Your success isn’t measured by the amount of money you have; declaring bankruptcy can get you back on even ground so you won’t be at such a disadvantage.

People who declare bankruptcy are untruthful.

Oftentimes, people who declare bankruptcy are concerned with being perceived as untruthful, and as taking advantage of creditors. However, those who typically declare bankruptcy are forced into that situation for reasons that are out of their control. An example of this could be a health crisis with significant medical bills. You’re not untruthful; you were dealt a difficult situation.

People who declare bankruptcy are irresponsible.

Let’s use the health crisis example again. Unfortunately, this is a common thing that happens in the United States. Not only is that something that is out of your control, but it affects your ability to work and make money while raising significant debt. And, once again, you aren’t being irresponsible; you were put into an impossible situation.

Bankruptcy haunts you for the rest of your life.

If you’re worried about your credit score, it’s very possible to build back your credit score in a short time after filing for bankruptcy – typically within a year or two. If you’re worried about discrimination, there are protections placed in our economic systems built to protect you after declaring bankruptcy. What can haunt you forever? Debt.

If you have any more questions about bankruptcy or are wondering if bankruptcy is the right option for you, call Craft Law Offices at 252-752-0297 or visit our website at craftlawoffice.com. We’ll help you set up a free consultation and get you the help you need.

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Debunking Traffic Myths

Posted on July 21, 2022January 30, 2026 by Craft Law Firm

Don’t believe everything you hear – these are five popular traffic myths debunked.

A wider road is a safer road.

Lane sizes are typically between 10 and 12 feet. There is a common misconception that the narrower the road, the more dangerous it is to drive on. However, research has shown that cars typically drive faster in wider lanes, which essentially cancels out the “additional safety” granted by the extra space. Lower crash rates have been associated with 10-foot lanes than 12-foot lanes, and believe it or not, 10-foot lanes still move plenty of traffic, so they aren’t the reason for traffic jams either.

Red cars are more likely to be pulled over, and/or red cars have higher insurance rates.

We’re not sure where these myths came from; we just know they aren’t true. Personal driving practices get you pulled over, and insurance rates are based on your make, model, and year of your car, personal driving history, and credit history. The car’s color has nothing to do with the reason you get pulled over or why your insurance payments are so high.

Occasionally filling up with premium gas can make your car run more smoothly.

I’ve seen the gas prices, and I can tell you now – don’t waste your money. Your standard gas will keep your car just as effective as premium gas. When it comes to increasing your car’s performance, car engines aren’t made to take advantage of premium fuel. Premium gas won’t do anything extra for your vehicle. However, if your car requires premium gas, you shouldn’t put anything less than that in there. This could be potentially damaging to your car.

Traffic tickets don’t transfer to other states.

They do. Well… mostly. 44 out of 50 states are a part of the Non-Resident Violator Compact, and 45 states are a part of the Driver’s License Compact. This means that they all share ticket and driver’s license data.

Driving barefoot is illegal.

Ill-advised? Maybe. Illegal? No. Of course, there are some exceptions (in Alabama, you can’t drive motorcycles barefoot). Still, for the most part, you can take your shoes off while driving home from work, out to dinner, or back from your kid’s sports game! However, it is important to be mindful of where you put your shoes once they’re off – you don’t want your shoe to kick the brake pedal accidentally.

So, if it sounds far-fetched, it probably is. But if you find yourself headed to traffic court, contact Leslie at Craft Law Firm for your free consultation at 252-752-0297 or visit our website at craftlawoffice.com.

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FAQs About Chapter 7 Bankruptcy

Posted on July 15, 2022January 30, 2026 by Craft Law Firm

You have questions about Chapter 7 bankruptcy, and we have answers. Here’s the basics for what to know when you think of Chapter 7 bankruptcy.

What is Chapter 7 and how does it work?

Chapter 7 is a part of bankruptcy law that allows a person to file a case in bankruptcy court that permits the person filing, or the debtor, to discharge certain debts. Under Chapter 7, to be discharged of your debts, you must file a case, turn over all nonexempt property, and obey court orders.

Who can file under Chapter 7?

Pretty much everybody! If you’ve been granted a discharge under Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 within a certain number of years, commit fraudulent activity, aren’t an individual, or refuse to answer to and obey bankruptcy court, then you are not eligible for Chapter 7 discharge.

Can you and your spouse file under Chapter 7 together?

Yes! You use the same set of forms, and you only have to pay one filing fee.

Will I be discriminated against for filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy?

No, it’s illegal for private and governmental employers to discriminate against you because you filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. It is also illegal for you to be denied any sort of license, permit, or grant because you have filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy.

Will I be notified if my discharge has been granted?

Yes, typically the courts send a document called Discharge of Debtor to all creditors approximately 4 months after the case is filed. This serves as your notice. If your discharge was not granted, the courts will inform you why.

How many times can I file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy?

There is no limit on how many times you can file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, just a waiting period of 8 years.

How long does the Chapter 7 process take and how long will it stay on my record?

The Chapter 7 process typically takes between four and six months from the time you first file to the time you receive a final discharge. There are various things that can affect your personal timeline. Chapter 7 will stay on your credit report for 10 years after it is filed.

If you’re interested in filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, contact Craft Law Offices for your free consultation at 252-752-0297 or visit our website at craftlawoffice.com.

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Jaywalking: Does the Punishment Fit the Crime?

Posted on June 30, 2022January 30, 2026 by Craft Law Firm

Jaywalking is defined as “crossing or walking in the street or road unlawfully or without regard for approaching traffic.” The fine for jaywalking in North Carolina ranges anywhere from $24-$174 and is considered a crime. This seems intense for simply crossing the street, so why is jaywalking such a big deal?

Jaywalking is very dangerous. In 2010, 4,280 people were killed and 70,000 injured due to traffic accidents involving jaywalkers. 79% of these accidents took place on non-intersections with no crosswalk. Similar to traffic laws, pedestrian laws are put into place to keep drivers, passengers, and pedestrians safe.

Drivers and pedestrians are accustomed to crosswalk rules, so it’s easier for pedestrians to judge if they can safely cross, and vehicle traffic understands to adjust accordingly. When jaywalking, it’s more difficult for pedestrians to measure their safety, and drivers tend to be caught off guard by jaywalkers. This puts everybody in and outside of the vehicle at risk.

The most common argument on why jaywalking should be allowed is the idea that pedestrians have the right of way. However, when it comes to jaywalking, this isn’t always true. A pedestrian can be at fault if they:

Cross the street where there isn’t a crosswalk
Don’t follow traffic signals
Walk on a road closed to pedestrians
Walk in front of a car without giving the driver enough time to stop

So when can you legally walk?

At an intersection
Where there is a crosswalk
Anywhere where there is a pedestrian walk sign

It’s important to stay safe and aware of the rules of the road. Pedestrians are largely at risk of getting hit. Any time a person is hit by a vehicle of any size, they’re likely to obtain serious injuries. Only walk in designated areas because anything else is considered jaywalking, and it isn’t worth the risk.

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