A Fresh Start That Stops the Harassment
Chapter 7 bankruptcy gives you real relief when debt is too much to handle. It stops creditor calls, pauses lawsuits, and allows you to eliminate medical bills, credit cards, payday loans, repossessions, and more.
Once your case is filed, the court puts an automatic stop to collections while a trustee reviews your situation. Most Chapter 7 cases are completed in about three months, and many people keep their car, home, and essential belongings. If you're buried in debt with no way out, this may be your clearest path forward.
Talk to Atty. Dave Falvey
What You Keep, and Who Qualifies
Chapter 7 doesn't mean you lose everything. You can usually protect your car, furniture, essential clothing, tools of the trade, and part of your home's equity through exemptions. The wildcard exemption lets you apply protection where it matters most. You may qualify if your income is low, you have few valuable assets, or you're unable to repay your debts.
If you're unsure, our office helps clients pass the "means test" and build a plan around protecting what matters. You get one shot every 8 years so here is where you can make it count.
Talk to Atty. Dave Falvey
What to Expect After Filing
Once your petition is filed, your bankruptcy officially begins. The court issues a stay, which legally blocks creditors from contacting you. You'll attend a short "341 meeting" with a trustee who reviews your case.
If creditors are owed money, they will have 90 days to file a proof of claim. From there, the trustee distributes available funds (if any), and you receive a discharge. Your case may involve zero asset liquidation, depending on what you own. The goal: erase debt, protect what you can, and move on with your life.
Talk to Atty. Dave Falvey
What Chapter 7 Won't Do, and Why That Matters
While Chapter 7 eliminates most unsecured debt, it won't wipe out everything. You can't discharge child support, alimony, or debts related to fraud, injury claims from DUI accidents, or recent tax debts.
If you hide assets or submit false statements, your discharge can be denied entirely. This process is designed to give honest filers a fresh start but not a free pass. That's why full disclosure is essential. We walk you through exactly what's protected, what's not, and how to avoid any missteps during the process.
Talk to Atty. Dave Falvey
860-449-1510