Legal Question in Credit and Debt Law in Virginia

Spouse credit card debt responsibility

My spouse of seven years, who had bad credit before our marriage, had previously opened credit crad accounts in my name, whose balances I paid off when discovered since the only other alternative was unwanted legal action against my spouse. I then had a Fraud Alert placed on my credit file but to no avail; spouse knew all my personal information to again open joint cards in my name. Again, I found and I'm in the midst of substantial payments. Now somehow she has received cards in her name only having zero income. If I refuse to provide funds to make her payments (tough love) with intent that credit card companies will no longer give her credit when she defaults, what's the impact on me?


Asked on 11/20/00, 8:42 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Daniel Hawes Hawes & Associates

Re: Spouse credit card debt responsibility

The impact on you is that they'll sue your spouse, and probably get judgments. I'd make sure your house is owned as "tenants by the entireties" and that the car and checking accounts are in your name only. After the creditors get judgments, they'll send the sheriff around to garnish wages & bank accounts, liquidate nonexempt personal property (e.g., valuable artworks, stocks and bonds, coin collections, etc.), and seize property for sale to pay the debts. Make sure ownership of anything you value is entirely and clearly in your name only. Be prepared to hire a lawyer to protect your interest in your property.

Read more
Answered on 12/07/00, 7:31 am


Related Questions & Answers

More Credit, Debt and Collections Law questions and answers in Virginia