Bankruptcy Q&A

If I file Chapter 7 bankruptcy, will I lose all my assets?

Many people mistakenly believe that they will lose their home, car and household goods if they file Chapter 7 Bankruptcy. Nothing could be further from the truth. Our clients keep their homes, vehicles, wages, retirement accounts, life insurance, jewelry and household goods (within certain limitations). Request your free bankruptcy pre-qualification consultation.

Can bankruptcy end the harassing creditor calls?

Yes. Filing for bankruptcy puts an immediate freeze on debt collection activities such as wage garnishment and harassing phone calls. Just as soon as we file your case, creditors are immediately prohibited from any form of communication with you.

Will someone come search through my house?

I would say that in over 98 percent of my cases, no one comes to my clients’ homes. If you are honest and thorough in listing your assets and other information requested by me and the bankruptcy court, you should be just fine. It is important that you hire a lawyer who will ask you the right questions and take the time to gather the appropriate information. Many law firms simply give their clients paperwork to fill out, without really delving deeper–and trouble tends to follow. I take the burden off of your shoulders and personally prepare each and every bankruptcy petition and schedules. Rest assured that when I file your bankruptcy petition and schedules, I know that the information is true and correct. We have a 100 percent success (discharge) rate with our bankruptcy filings.

Can filing for bankruptcy save my home from foreclosure?

Yes, Chapter 13 bankruptcy can be used as an effective method of foreclosure defense. If filed prior to the date of sale, a Chapter 13 bankruptcy will freeze the foreclosure and allow you to structure a repayment plan, enabling you to pay your current mortgage payments going forward and the back mortgage payments in installments over a period of three to five years. There are mortgage modification options within a Chapter 13 bankruptcy, as well. Your home is so much more than just a house. It is the heartbeat of your family and we are committed to saving it!

Will filing for bankruptcy permanently destroy my credit?

Absolutely not! In fact, by following my advice, my clients are able to see their credit scores improve dramatically within a year of filing. Our goal is to get your credit score in the 700s within a year!  

How much does it cost to file for bankruptcy?

Understanding that financial distress can be overwhelming, our approach is always rooted in respect for your circumstances and a commitment to transparency. I work hard to keep our fees as low and reasonable as possible.

The average Chapter 7 (personal) bankruptcy fee ranges between $2,200 and $2,600, plus the filing fee of $338. We offer payment plans, however, the legal fee and filing fee for a Chapter 7 case must be paid in full, prior to filing the case.

The average Chapter 13 (personal) bankruptcy fee ranges between $3,000-$5,000, plus the filing fee of $313 and other costs. The legal fee for Chapter 13 cases is set by the Bankruptcy Court and varies district to district. We require at least $3,500 to be paid up front for a Chapter 13 case, with the remainder paid after the case is filed. We accept a limited number of Chapter 13 cases in order to give our clients personalized attention.

Throughout the process, our team is available to answer your questions and ensure you feel informed every step of the way. If you are considering bankruptcy, we encourage you to reach out for a confidential pre-qualification consultation, where we can discuss your unique situation and outline the most suitable options for your needs. Our goal is to help you regain financial stability and peace of mind with legal guidance tailored just for you.

But I feel guilty about filing! What should I do?

Don’t beat yourself up over filing for bankruptcy. Many of the men and women who come to me are hardworking individuals who express that they feel ashamed and embarrassed about the prospect of filing for bankruptcy. No one should feel this way! Everyone goes through financial hard times—particularly with interest rates as high as 29.99 percent and a world health crisis! Don’t let misconceptions about bankruptcy stop you from obtaining the second chance you deserve. I am here to discharge your debt, help you rebuild your finances and achieve renewed stability, security, and independence!