Can You Discharge Traffic Tickets and Fines in Bankruptcy?
Traffic tickets and court fines usually can't be discharged through Chapter 7 bankruptcy because they're government debts. Chapter 13 bankruptcy lets you repay these non-dischargeable debts over 3-5 years and can help you get your suspended driver's license back immediately.
Get Free ConsultationMost traffic tickets and government fines are tough to discharge in bankruptcy. While Chapter 7 bankruptcy eliminates many unsecured debts like credit cards and medical bills, it won’t wipe out most government penalties. You’ll still owe these debts even after a successful bankruptcy case.
The good news? Chapter 13 bankruptcy offers a powerful way to manage these non-dischargeable debts. You can spread payments over 3-5 years. You might even get your suspended driver’s license back immediately.
Discover If Chapter 13 Can Eliminate Your Traffic Fines
Stop worrying about suspended licenses and unpaid tickets. A bankruptcy attorney can review your fines and create a discharge strategy within 24 hours.
Check Your Eligibility NowIn Chapter 7 bankruptcy, most unsecured debts are dischargeable. Credit cards, personal loans, and medical bills typically disappear after your case concludes.
But certain debts survive bankruptcy. Child support, alimony, and most tax debts fall into this category. The Bankruptcy Code calls these priority unsecured debts.
Government fines and penalties join this list. Bankruptcy courts hold filers responsible for breaking the law. Federal, state, and local government debts rarely get eliminated through Chapter 7.
Can Bankruptcy Discharge Traffic Fines?
Sometimes. Bankruptcy can eliminate certain traffic fines or tickets. The outcome depends on what they’re for and which bankruptcy chapter you file.
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Limitations
Traffic fines can’t be discharged through Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Government entities receive special protection under bankruptcy law.
Non-dischargeable fines include:
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Traffic violations
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Traffic tickets
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Parking tickets
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Toll violations
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Court fines
Chapter 13 bankruptcy might eliminate these debts instead.
Managing Fines Through Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
Chapter 13 bankruptcy works well when Chapter 7 won’t help. You get to pay non-dischargeable debts like fines through a 3-5 year repayment plan.
Can’t pay your fines right away? Chapter 13 gives you time to catch up. Depending on your situation, you might not pay the entire amount back.
Chapter 13 filers become eligible for driver’s license reinstatement immediately. You don’t need to wait until your plan finishes. If your license is suspended or faces suspension, Chapter 13 can help.
Wondering if bankruptcy is right for your situation? Speak with a bankruptcy attorney for free to explore your options.
Can Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Eliminate Other Court Fines?
Most court fines aren’t dischargeable in Chapter 7 bankruptcy. The purpose of the fine determines whether it can be eliminated.
Fines that punish you for breaking rules generally survive bankruptcy. Speeding tickets, parking violations, and similar penalties remain your responsibility.
But some government debts are different. If the government spent money on your behalf, that debt might be dischargeable.
Consider this example: Your county warns you about an overgrown lawn. They hire someone to mow it after you ignore the warning. The bill they send you recovers their mowing expense. Debts like this are often dischargeable.
Government overpayments from assistance programs usually get discharged too. These debts represent money owed, not punishment for wrongdoing.
Jail Fees or Incarceration Costs
Jail fees and incarceration costs rarely get discharged. However, the specific fee type and creditor matter.
An experienced bankruptcy attorney could argue your debt should be discharged. They can review your situation and tell you whether discharge is possible.
Can You Get Your Driver’s License Back by Filing Bankruptcy?
Your license suspension reason and bankruptcy type determine the answer.
Chapter 7 won’t restore licenses suspended for traffic fines, violations, or parking tickets. Chapter 13 repayment plans offer better results.
You might only pay back a small percentage of your fines in Chapter 13. Contact your local DMV to learn what fines were assessed against you.
Chapter 13 filers don’t wait for discharge to reclaim their licenses. You can usually get reinstated immediately after filing. Just maintain your monthly Chapter 13 plan payments.
Understanding Your Bankruptcy Options for Traffic Debts
Court fines, fees, and traffic tickets won’t disappear through Chapter 7 bankruptcy. These debts fall outside Chapter 7’s discharge powers.
Chapter 13 bankruptcy provides real benefits instead. You repay non-dischargeable debts over time through an affordable payment plan. Your suspended driver’s license can be reinstated while you’re in the repayment plan.
Consider your total debt picture before choosing a bankruptcy chapter. An attorney can help you select the right path forward.