We have locations available by appointment in the following areas. Please call us to speak to an attorney and set up an initial meeting.
The idea of filing for bankruptcy might be difficult to consider at first. However, these protections can provide you with a fresh financial start and a clear path toward a debt-free life. If you are struggling, our compassionate bankruptcy attorneys are here to help.
When you meet with our firm, we advise you on the different options available to you. This means evaluating your eligibility for each type of bankruptcy and guiding you through the entire process. Reach out to a Grand Rapids bankruptcy lawyer from our firm today to learn more. You can also fill out our online debt calculator for a quote and to explore your options immediately.
There are two major bankruptcy options for individuals. Depending on your financial situation, you might qualify for Chapter 13 or Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Our Grand Rapids bankruptcy attorneys can help you assess your options and review eligibility requirements.
Often called “liquidation bankruptcy,” Chapter 7 allows you to eliminate most unsecured debts, such as credit cards, medical bills, and personal loans. In exchange, some of your non-exempt property may be sold to repay creditors. To qualify, you must pass a “means test,” which compares your household income to the state median. If you qualify, Chapter 7 could provide a relatively quick fresh start.
Chapter 13, sometimes referred to as a “wage earner’s plan,” allows you to keep your property while restructuring your debts into a repayment plan lasting three to five years. Instead of eliminating debt right away, you pay back a portion of what you owe over time, based on your income and ability to pay. This option is often useful for people with steady income who want to catch up on missed mortgage payments, car loans, or tax debts while protecting their assets.
There are many ways that the protections of the bankruptcy code can benefit you. In many cases, you will begin to experience these benefits the moment your Grand Rapids bankruptcy attorney files your petition. Some benefits include:
One of the major benefits of filing for bankruptcy is the automatic stay. The automatic stay immediately halts all collection activity as soon as your case is active, and it remains in place until your bankruptcy discharges or the court orders it to end. The stay prevents creditors from making any contact with you in an effort to settle your debt. It also bars them from filing lawsuits or sending collection letters.
Filing for bankruptcy will also halt any ongoing legal cases against you. If your creditors have filed a lawsuit to collect a debt, that case will be on hold indefinitely. Once you get your discharge, the lawsuit must be dismissed. This also means you are shielded from having your vehicles repossessed or wages garnished.
For most people, one of the top priorities when filing for bankruptcy is the discharge of unsecured debt. Obligations related to medical bills and credit cards are generally erased entirely at the end of this process.
You will generally be able to keep most of your possessions without fear of having to liquidate them. Depending on your financial situation, you may even be able to work out a payment plan to stay in your home or keep your vehicle.
Overall, bankruptcy is about getting a fresh financial start. You leave this process mostly or entirely debt-free, and any secure debts should be current at the time of discharge. The peace of mind that comes with knowing you are now free from overwhelming debt is invaluable.
Filing for bankruptcy could greatly benefit you and your family. If you are ready to take this step, our team is here to help. A Grand Rapids bankruptcy lawyer from our firm can guide you through the process. Our team understands you are facing financial difficulty and allows you to file for no money down. Fill out our online debt calculator to get the process started.
We have locations available by appointment in the following areas. Please call us to speak to an attorney and set up an initial meeting.
We are a debt relief agency helping people file bankruptcy under the United States Bankruptcy Code.
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