San Diego Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Attorney
Get a Fresh Start in Life
Chapter 7 is the most common type of bankruptcy filed in the United States and can often be completed in about 3 to 4 months with the help of a skilled legal professional. Individuals who have lost a job or gone through unexpected financial difficulties can find relief from overwhelming debt when they file for a Chapter 7 bankruptcy. If you are struggling to pay off your debts, you must keep in mind that you are not alone. Hundreds of thousands of people who are in your position have found the debt relief that they need through Chapter 7 bankruptcy each and every year, and we are here to help you.
A 5-minute phone call with us is typically all that is needed for you to get informed about whether bankruptcy is a smart decision. Call now. You’ll be glad you did.
While we have a lot of useful information about bankruptcy on our site, and you are certainly welcome to browse around, we have found that the easiest way to find out if bankruptcy is right for you is to make a quick phone call to us. You will speak with an experienced bankruptcy attorney who will be able to quickly determine if bankruptcy makes sense for you. Every situation is unique and only an experienced bankruptcy attorney can provide the information you need to make an informed decision.
The Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Process
In order to begin the Chapter 7 bankruptcy process, you must complete a bankruptcy petition and several bankruptcy schedules that outline your financial situation. These schedules must disclose financial records that show all your current income, assets, debts, and other liabilities. Immediately upon filing your case with the court, the court will issue an automatic "stay" which stops all of your creditors or collection agencies from contacting you any further. The creditors are prohibited from even attempting to collect a debt once your case has been filed. Often times, this is a huge relief for debtors because they have been under intense pressure and harassment from their creditors. Creditor harassment can come in many forms, and you may have creditors calling your phone at all hours of the day or visiting your workplace. We understand the intense pressure and constant stress that comes with falling behind on your bills, and we are here to help you today. Ending the collection calls and creditor harassment is just the first of many reliefs that Chapter 7 bankruptcy protection will bring you.
FAQs
Who Is Eligible for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy in San Diego?
To qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in San Diego, CA, you must pass the means test, which evaluates your income, expenses, and ability to repay debts. Generally, individuals who have primarily consumer debts and limited income may be eligible for Chapter 7 bankruptcy.
What Debts Can Be Discharged in Chapter 7 Bankruptcy?
Many types of unsecured debts can be discharged in Chapter 7 bankruptcy, including credit card debts, medical bills, personal loans, and certain tax debts. However, certain debts like student loans, child support, and specific tax obligations are generally not eligible for discharge.
Will I Lose All My Property in Chapter 7 Bankruptcy?
In Chapter 7 bankruptcy, non-exempt assets are liquidated to repay creditors; however, California law offers exemptions to safeguard certain properties. Our experienced San Diego bankruptcy attorneys will help you understand the exemptions available to you and guide you through the process of protecting your assets.
How Long Does the Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Process Take?
A Chapter 7 bankruptcy filing typically takes between 3 and 6 months to complete. A bankruptcy court's efficiency and the complexity of your case may affect the timeline.
Will Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Stop Creditor Harassment and Wage Garnishments?
Yes, one immediate advantage of filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy is the automatic stay, which stops all collection efforts, including creditor harassment, wage garnishments, legal actions, and foreclosure proceedings.
Can I File for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy More Than Once?
You can file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy more than once, but there are time limits between filings. To file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy again after receiving a Chapter 7 discharge in a previous case, you must wait 8 years after filing for bankruptcy in the previous case.
How Will Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Affect My Credit Score?
Despite the fact that Chapter 7 bankruptcy remains on your credit report for 10 years, many individuals find that their credit score increases shortly after a discharge, as they are able to rebuild their credit without overwhelming debt.
To find out how Chapter 7 bankruptcy could help you, call and speak with a knowledgeable San Diego bankruptcy lawyer at San Diego Legal Pros.