CC debt, Trust for asset protection, & House ownership

[leroy_moi]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? CA

In this situation I am presenting, I realize that it might also be answered (at least in part) in a different thread. Please let me know where if it is the case.

I have acquired massive credit card debt in the the state of CA in which I seized all payments and communications as of late 2005 (over 3 years ago). I'm considering filing bankruptcy at some point.

Since that time I've been on SSDI (social security disability) and have lived out of the country.

I am at the point where I wish to return to the USA.

I have also in this time period acquired a small nest egg that I'd like to protect.

More importantly for me to know is if there exist a type legal entity
(like a trust of some sort) that I can set up for protecting and controlling my assets.

How do I go about doing this and would I need a lawyer ?
What is the ballpark figure in attorney costs ? How do they charge ?

I don't own any homes but have a few near worthless land lots.

Also:
If I bought a cheap home to live in in which I paid cash for, could I lose it from the collection agencies if it isn't protected by a bankruptcy or trust ? The states of residence I am considering to have a home would be CA, TX, WI, or OH.

I would be grateful for any help or suggestions in finding some answers.What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)?

[tranquility]

More importantly for me to know is if there exist a type legal entity
(like a trust of some sort) that I can set up for protecting and controlling my assets.

No. You cannot both protect and fully control your assets. Once you have rights to them, so do your creditors, no matter how cleverly worded they are.

[debtcollector`]

Originally Posted by leroy_moi

Since that time I've been on SSDI (social security disability) and have lived out of the country.

I am at the point where I wish to return to the USA.

WE PAY SSDI TO EX-PATs!!!?

That deserves a letter to my congressmen. If you aren't going to even live in my country, why the hell should I pay you?

DC