Kathleen Michon is an estate planning lawyer in the San Francisco Bay Area. She has been affiliated with Nolo in various capacities for more than fifteen years, including five years as Nolo’s in-house bankruptcy, foreclosure, and debt editor. Kathleen’s previous legal experience also includes directing Public Counsel's Consumer Rights Project and representing inmates on death row. Kathleen received a B.A. from Yale University and a law degree from Northwestern University School of Law.
Articles By Kathleen Michon
Forms You Must File in Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
Here's a list of the forms you must file in Chapter 7 bankruptcy, and where to find them.
Forms You Must File in Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
Here's a list of the forms you must file in Chapter 13 bankruptcy, and where to find them.
Collect Emergency Information for Elders
Once you have assessed what tasks your older relative can handle independently -- and any areas where they might need help -- begin collecting information that you will need to deal with emergencie
Tax Consequences When a Creditor Writes Off or Settles a Debt
If you settle a debt with a creditor for less than the full amount, or a creditor writes off a debt you owe, you may owe money to the IRS. The IRS treats the forgiven debt as income, on which you may owe income taxes. Learn the rules -- including reporting requirements and exceptions -- here.
How to Get Out of Student Loan Debt
Most people can't eliminate student loan debt—but many can get better payment plans.
How Much Will My Divorce Cost and How Long Will It Take?
If you’re facing the end of your marriage, you have a lot of concerns. One of your questions is likely to be: How much will a divorce cost? The answer to that question will depend on many different things, including whether you hire a lawyer, whether your spouse is combative or collegial, whether you have children at home, how much property and debt you have to divide, whether one of you is requesting alimony—and the list goes on.
What Is a Bankruptcy Audit?
The U.S. Trustee audits bankruptcy cases every year. The purpose of the audit is to monitor fraud and prevent debtors from lying about their income and schedules.
Should I pay credit card debt from retirement savings or file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy?
Pros and cons of using bankruptcy versus dipping into your retirement savings to get rid of debt.
Different Types of Credit & Debit Cards
Credit, charge, ATM, and debit cards are not all alike. Here's some information to help you choose wisely.
Lemon Law for New Cars
If your car turns out to be a lemon—a vehicle with repeated, unfixable problems—you might be able to get a refund or replacement vehicle. Here's how.