About Oni Harton, Esq.
Oni Harton is an experienced estate planning and litigation attorney. She has been writing and researching for more than two decades and enjoys contributing to efforts that connect people with critical legal services. Oni contributes to Super Lawyers by creating content and verifying the legal accuracy of articles. Oni is an Indiana University School of Law graduate. She is licensed in Indiana.
Articles written by Oni Harton, Esq.
Fintech Loans vs. HELOCs: Debt Consolidation Legal Differences
Today's consumers are increasingly weighing their options when looking for a debt consolidation solution. They want to tackle high-interest debt to improve their financial situations. Two options are fintech online consolidation loans and HELOCs. Knowing the differences matters because they can affect your rights, closing costs, and borrower protections. Read on to learn more. If you need legal assistance making debt consolidation decisions, contact an experienced debtor and creditor rights …
Are HELOC Interest Tax Deductions Allowed for Debt Payoff?
When you open a home equity line of credit (HELOC), you typically access funds during a draw period, then repay what you borrow over time. You can use home equity in a variety of ways, such as to consolidate debt, buy a car, or make home improvements. Your home serves as collateral for the loan, which may make the interest deductible. However, under current tax law, you can deduct interest only when you use the borrowed funds to buy, build, or substantially improve the home securing the loan. …
HELOC vs. Home Equity Loan for Debt: Which Is Safer?
Deciding between a HELOC and home equity loan for debt consolidation usually comes down to predictability. A home equity loan delivers fixed, predictable payments, while a HELOC offers flexibility but carries variable-rate risk and line-freeze risk. In general, a home equity loan is the safer choice. However, the right answer for you depends on your budget stability and goals, and defaulting on either loan type puts your house at risk. If you need legal help with a HELOC or home equity loan and …
Can an Employer Fire You for Filing Bankruptcy?
Employees who experience major financial problems and file for bankruptcy may wonder whether their employer will find out and fire them. Although this fear is understandable, federal anti-discrimination law provides meaningful protection. Your employer cannot fire, demote, or punish you solely for filing bankruptcy. This applies in both the public and private sectors. However, the protections available to you depend on your circumstances and your employer, as a private-sector employer may …
Using a HELOC To Pay Credit Cards: Legal Risks and Rules
Using a home equity line of credit (HELOC) to pay credit card debt may offer a lower interest rate and more flexibility than other lines of credit. It also puts your home on the line if you don't repay it according to the agreement. Before you sign on the line, it’s important to understand exactly what happens when you shift unsecured debt to secured debt, the federal protections available, and the risks. If you need legal advice regarding whether you should use a HELOC or assistance after …
What Happens at the 341 Meeting of Creditors?
A 341 Meeting of Creditors is the mandatory bankruptcy proceeding named after Section 341 of the Bankruptcy Code. It allows the bankruptcy trustee and any creditors to question the debtor under oath about their finances and bankruptcy paperwork. A 341 hearing is required for every bankruptcy filer, whether the proceeding is Chapter 7, Chapter 11, or Chapter 13. With the right preparation and help from an experienced bankruptcy attorney, this meeting is far less intimidating than it sounds. What …
What Is a Court Motion?
When you file a case in court, you are introduced to an entirely new language that you may not use in everyday life. Words that you think you know can take on entirely new meanings, such as discovery and motions. A court motion is a formal request asking a judge to rule, issue an order, or take a specific action related to the case. If you have a case and need to file a motion or need other legal guidance regarding your case, consult a local civil litigation attorney. You can discuss your …
Can You Sue Parents or Relatives for Childhood Abuse and Trauma?
Legal options are available for those seeking justice for childhood sexual abuse, physical abuse, or severe emotional trauma as an adult. Whether the conduct happened decades ago or criminal charges were filed, you may be able to file a civil lawsuit, with remedies including financial compensation and injunctive relief. If you or a loved one needs to pursue legal action against those who are responsible for childhood abuse and trauma, contact an experienced local personal injury attorney. …
Requirements To Sue for Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress (IIED)
The intentional infliction of emotional distress (IIED) is a civil claim, an intentional tort, that allows a person to seek damages when someone else's extreme and outrageous conduct causes serious emotional harm. Courts look for conduct that shocks the conscience of a civilized society and goes far beyond ordinary conflict when evaluating these claims. IIED claims can arise in medical malpractice cases or other personal injury matters. IIED claims are notoriously difficult to …
What To Do When Your Workplace Injury Isn’t Covered by Workers’ Comp
Not every workplace carries traditional workers’ compensation coverage. However, this doesn’t mean you have no options. You still have rights. Depending on your jurisdiction and the situation, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against your employer, a non-subscriber employer action, a third-party liability claim, or apply for state uninsured employer funds. Contact an experienced workers’ compensation attorney for legal guidance to explore legal options. What Happens When …
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