BBVLP PRO BONO SPOTLIGHT: Ted Stuckenschneider

Birmingham bankruptcy attorney Ted Stuckenschneider is a longtime volunteer of the BBVLP, a new BBVLP board member, and a member of the steering committee that helped the BBVLP launch its Bankruptcy Help Desk.

Ted personally has taken more than 10 bankruptcy cases for low-income clients, helping them manage their financial debts and regain control of their lives. In one case, an 85-year-old client was seeking legal assistance with filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy due to outstanding debts accrued through loans and credit cards. The client was partnered with Ted for pro bono aid. Within a week, Ted was able to meet with the client and his family and they decided not to file for bankruptcy but rather to remain judgment proof. Ted resolved the issue by preparing a general durable power of attorney for the client so that the family could handle his affairs and respond to the creditors at no cost.

In another instance, Ted assisted a client who recently lost both of her jobs, had garnishments from her wages, and was evicted from her apartment. The client was able to relocate but was unable to maintain steady rental payments. The client's extenuating circumstances and financial situation forced her to live in a hotel room with her daughter and grandchildren. Even though the client was able to find employment, the pay wasn't substantial enough to sustain her bills, debts, garnishments, and personal needs, not to mention the other lives in her household. The client was able to obtain legal assistance from Ted and was granted the "fresh start" she so desired.

After seeing the impact he could make by helping low-income clients unable to afford representation discharge their debts, Ted worked with the BBVLP to start the Bankruptcy Help Desk.

The Bankruptcy Help Desk, held on the first Friday of every month, allows bankruptcy attorneys to screen eligible clients so that they can begin the process of filing for bankruptcy. To volunteer for the upcoming Bankruptcy Help Desk, please click here.