Casino Markers in Chapter 7

[Bankruptcy20]

Does anyone have any experience with non-Las Vegas casino markers, in a Chapter 7 filing?

I understand that in Nevada that there are stricter standards (i.e., criminal and bounced check, etc), but outside of there and Louisiana, does anyone have any real experiences they can share with how the casino markers were handled in a Chapter 7 filing? My markers are not from Louisana or Nevada, thank goodness.

I have several outstanding markers, and where in the past, I could have paid them off... I now find myself unemployed and way-overextended, forcing me to seriously consider Chapter 7.

I've spoken to attorneys and gotten some comfort, but I would very much welcome any real-life victim experiences. In particular, once your filing was made, did the casinos really honor the stay? Or did some unsavory goons start hanging around your front door? Any scary harrassment? We've all seen the movies.

Thank you.

[catleg]

A lot depends on the state and the casino. I have looked at some Pacer filings and it looks like the Borgata in Atlantic City is real aggressive, to the extent that they file fairly groundless objections in bankruptcy cases. There is one guy in Chapter 13 in NJ against whom they lost on their objection and have appealed all the way up to the US Court of Appeals. (search Pacer for Marina District Development Co).

I would say that if you don't file for bankruptcy or if you drag your feet you have a very strong probability of being sued.

I don't think you have to worry about getting beat up, however.

[Bankruptcy20]

Thank you, this was quite helpful

[Bankruptcy20]

Actually, one follow-up. I do not know how to use Pacer yet (or even have access to), but out of curiosity, how much is the claim for that poor fella in New Jersey that Borgata is disputing? Is is such a large amount? Just out of curiosity.

Again, thank you.

[catleg]

It was around 200k. He sold his half of the house to his wife (no divorce), continued making payments to the casino, then 2 years later filed BK and got a ch13 plan about 500/month for 60 months. They were his only creditor. Boy were they pissed. :-)

[car67]

Guido will be coming soon from the Tomahawk Casino!

[Bankruptcy20]

Thanks, Catleg. I hope my situation is different, as I would go Chapter 7 and not 13. Not sure what Borgata's claim was in that person's situation, but I appreciate you sharing that.