CC debt, Trust for asset protection, & House ownership

[leroy_moi]

My state for the most part is CA.

In this situation I am presenting, I realize that it might also be answered (at least in part) in a different thread. Please let me know where if it is the case.

I have acquired massive credit card debt in the the state of CA in which I siezed all payments and communications as of late 2005 (over 3 years ago). I'm considering filing bankruptcy at some point.

Since that time I've been on SSDI (social security disability) and have lived out of the country.

I am at the point where I wish to return to the USA.

I have also in this time period acquired a small nest egg that I'd like to protect.

More importantly for me to know is if there exist a type legal entity
(like a trust of some sort) that I can set up for protecting and controlling my assets.

How do I go about doing this and would I need a lawyer ?
What is the ballpark figure in attorney costs ? How do they charge ?

I don't own any homes but have a few near worthless land lots.

Also:
If I bought a cheap home to live in in which I paid cash for, could I lose it from the collection agencies if it isn't protected by a bankruptcy or trust ? The states of residence I am considering to have a home would be CA, TX, WI, or OH.

I would be grateful for any help or suggestions in finding some answers.

You can keep the cash offshore.

And in Texas your home is exempt from creditors.

There are lots of other things you could do but it may not be needed given what you say.

If you want to discuss personal details you may want to use the ask a lawyer above and get a lawyer to further opine for you.