An advanced financial planning guide for smart, sophisticated readers in a financial crisis, this book offers strategic and thought-provoking information about bankruptcy and its alternatives. The author challenges the conventional wisdom regarding filing for and surviving personal bankruptcy, with particular focus on the uniquely complex plight of "high-income" individuals and households (a label the courts may apply to incomes significantly greater than the $45,000 median). The book provides vivid examples of how easily people legitimately find themselves in deep financial distress, regardless of income level. Featured insights address what lawyers can't and won't share about avoiding and/or filing for bankruptcy -- delivered in a readable, conversational, no-nonsense tone. In-depth coverage includes debt settlement, foreclosure and short sales, Chapter 13, Chapter 11, and Chapter 7, as well as suggestions for managing attorneys. The author provides detailed guidance on evaluating all possible alternatives to resolving a personal financial crisis, planning ahead for personal bankruptcy, and optimizing the outcome of a filing. Readers are given powerful arguments to use in explaining and justifying their own financial situation and decisions to others.