Your Trusted Jacksonville Foreclosure Defense Attorney
When facing foreclosure, having the right attorney on your side can make all the difference. Richard Hughes is a seasoned foreclosure lawyer in Jacksonville, TX, with over 30 years of experience helping East Texas homeowners protect their property and financial future.
He understands how stressful the foreclosure process can be and works tirelessly to help clients find practical solutions that may allow them to stay in their homes. With clear communication and dedicated support, you’ll never have to face the process alone.
At our firm, we focus on protecting your rights, defending your home, and finding the best possible path forward for your unique situation.
Foreclosure Defense Lawyer in Jacksonville, TX
Richard Hughes brings decades of experience and legal insight to every foreclosure case. He will evaluate your situation, explain your options, and work with you to find the best resolution possible. His services include:
- Negotiating directly with lenders
- Helping you file for bankruptcy
- Representing you in foreclosure court
- And much more
If foreclosure seems imminent, don’t wait. The sooner you get help, the more options you’ll have.
Contact us today to book a free consultation with Richard Hughes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is foreclosure?
Foreclosure is the legal process through which a lender or mortgage company reclaims the balance of a loan. They typically do this by taking back your home if you haven’t paid your mortgage or property taxes.
What’s the difference between judicial and non-judicial foreclosure?
Whether a foreclosure is considered judicial or non-judicial depends on if your lender takes you to court before foreclosing on your property.
In a judicial foreclosure, the lender must obtain a judgment from the court. However, non-judicial allows them to foreclose without a court judgment, as long as the deed of trust has a power of sale clause.
In Texas, most foreclosures are non-judicial.
How many missed payments are allowed before I lose my home?
Technically, even one missed payment violates your loan agreement. However, most lenders don’t start foreclosure proceedings until you’ve missed three or more payments. Before that, you’ll typically receive late notices and incur late fees.
What should I do if I get a missed payment notification?
Act quickly. Contact your lender’s loss mitigation department to discuss repayment options or loan modifications. The sooner you reach out, the better your chances of avoiding foreclosure.
Are there alternatives to foreclosure?
Yes. Depending on your financial circumstances, you may qualify for alternatives such as:
- Loan modification to lower monthly payments
- Temporary forbearance or repayment plans
- A short sale or deed in lieu of foreclosure
Some alternatives may allow you to keep your home. However, others may still require you to move, but in a less disruptive way than foreclosure.
No matter the option, it’s important to contact your lender as soon as you know you won’t be able to make a payment. That way, you’ll have more options available to you.
What is the foreclosure process?
The Texas foreclosure process follows three main steps:
- Notice of Default: You’ll receive a written notice from your lender giving you 20 days to pay the overdue amount in full.
- Notice of Sale: At least 21 days before the foreclosure sale date, you’ll receive a second written notice. This 21-day notice starts when the mail is sent, not when you receive it.
- Foreclosure Sale: The property is auctioned at the county courthouse. During the auction, anyone can bid. Once the property is sold, you cannot buy back the property from the new owner unless they are a government entity, tax lender, or for nonpayment of homeowner’s association fees.
Will bankruptcy stop foreclosure?
While bankruptcy doesn’t permanently stop a foreclosure, it can help. Chapter 13 bankruptcy reorganizes your debt into manageable payments, which may allow you to keep your home. However, with Chapter 7, you may not be able to protect your home since it involves liquidating your assets to pay creditors.
My lender is starting the foreclosure proceedings. What can I do?
Contact a foreclosure attorney immediately. Richard Hughes can communicate with your lender, review your case, and explore every available option to delay or prevent foreclosure. You may also contact a HUD-approved housing counselor for free assistance.
How long do foreclosures take?
The foreclosure process can be time-consuming and may last anywhere from 120 days to over a year. The amount of time depends on the willingness of your lender to negotiate, how quickly you respond to notices, and other delays that may happen.