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Little Falls, NJ 07424

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About Ralph A. Ferro Bankruptcy Lawyer

History of Bankruptcy

History of Bankruptcy
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Written and Verified by Ralph A. Ferro, Jr., Esq.

History of Bankruptcy is very interesting.

Did you ever wonder about Bankruptcy Protection Laws in ancient Times?   Or how we got the word “bankruptcy”?  There are various Bankruptcy Chapters:   Chapter 7, Chapter 11, Chapter 13 and Chapter 11 subchapter V but let us look at bankruptcy protection historically.

I did some research on bankruptcy protection and ancient bankruptcy meanings to give you a perspective.

The meaning of bankruptcy – derived from Italian banca rotta, meaning ” broken bench “ which may stem from a custom of breaking a moneychanger’s bench or counter to signify his insolvency, or which may be only a figure of speech.

Ancient Greece:  (Ancient History of Bankruptcy)

  • Bankruptcy protection did not exist.Greece
  • If a man owed and he could not pay, he and his wife, children or servants were forced into debt slavery, until the creditor recouped losses through their labor.
  • Usually there was a limited period of 5 years for debt slaves.
  • Servants of the debtor could be retained beyond the 5 years and sometimes a lifetime.
  • Athens was an exception, laws forbid enslavement for debt; as a consequence, most Athenian slaves were foreigners (Greek or otherwise).

Old Testament bible

  • Every 7th year decreed by Mosaic Law as Sabbatical year when the release of all debts that are owed by members of the community (not “foreigners”) was mandated.
  • The 7th Sabbatical year, or 49th year, was then followed by another Sabbatical year known as the Year of Jubilee where the release of all debts was mandated, for all (fellow community members, foreigners and the release of all debt-slaves).

Islamic teaching,  Quran

  • According to the Qur’an, an insolvent person was deemed to be allowed time to be able to pay out his debt.  Verse 280, which notes: “And if someone is in hardship, then let there be postponement until a time of ease. But if you give from your right as charity, then it is better for you, if you only knew.

Bankruptcy History and Ancient Meanings of Bankruptcy have changed over the years.   It continues to evolve with new laws and bankruptcy code.    However, our country provides a great opportunity to get a fresh start.

There is a long history of Bankruptcy.

If you are experiencing financial uncertainty, I am here to help you.

We can meet for a free consult  I will learn more about you and provide expert bankruptcy advice.    I will let you know if filing:

Chapter 7,     Chapter 11,      Chapter 11 Subchapter V,     or    Chapter 13    will benefit you.

Call me today – I will help you.  RALPH A. FERRO, Jr., ESQ.