Lansing Bankruptcy Lawyer
One of the Best Bankruptcy Attorneys in Lansing, MI
Nearest Office - Flint
1324 W Bristol Rd
Flint, MI 48507
Serving Lansing from our Flint office
Monday: 9 AM-5:15 PM
Tuesday: 9 AM-5:15 PM
Wednesday: 9 AM-5:15 PM
Thursday: 9 AM-5:15 PM
Friday: 9 AM-5:15 PM
Saturday: 9 AM-12 PM
Sunday: Closed
Appointments as late as 6:30 Mon-Th by phone only
Highly Recommended
Get a Free Consultation
Lansing Bankruptcy Attorney
With proper help, there is hope for financial recovery. Our experienced Lansing bankruptcy lawyers are here 24/7 to assist you through your professional or personal bankruptcy.
Bankruptcy can be your chance to get your business back on its feet or get rid of your overwhelming debt. Let us begin today. Call (810) 424-1614 and book a free bankruptcy consultation with us today.
What is Bankruptcy?
Bankruptcy is the federal legal process that eliminates or repays debt under the protection of a bankruptcy court. It allows you to file for bankruptcy as an individual or a business under laws governed by the U.S. Bankruptcy Code, along with other federal and state protections.
While the process itself is federal, states like Michigan dictate specific terms. In this case, the property exemption laws are dictated by the local laws (state regulations), which allow you to keep certain assets under bankruptcy protection.
The most commonly known chapters of bankruptcy are Chapter 7, 11, and 13. If you are looking to file for bankruptcy in the Lansing area, then our bankruptcy law firm is here to assist you in choosing the proper chapter.
In 2025, a total of 3,893 bankruptcies were filed in the Western District of Michigan Bankruptcy Court. Around 2,620 of these were Chapter 7, nine were Chapter 11, and 1,261 were Chapter 13 bankruptcy filings. [1]
What Our Bankruptcy Law Firm Will Do For You
The process of bankruptcy filing can be difficult. You do not only need counsel; you need help with the best course of action for you. While debt can weigh you down, bankruptcy may not always be the best debt relief option for you. In these cases, we can help you explore other avenues.
Here are the many ways we can help you:
Bankruptcy Filing: The bankruptcy process can be complex and difficult in many regards. Our law firm thoroughly guides you through each phase and advises you on the key steps to take to ensure the best possible outcome.
Eliminate Credit Card Debt: If you have overwhelming credit card debt, then you may have no need to file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy or any bankruptcy at all. We will guide you through the alternatives to save you time and effort.
Foreclosure Defense: If you need foreclosure defense, look no further. We are one of the top bankruptcy law firms capable of protecting your assets and helping you stop foreclosure.
Free Yourself of Medical Debt: If you have medical bills that have piled up, we will provide legal counsel regarding your options to get free of healthcare-related debt.
Stop Wage Garnishments: If you are facing wage garnishment from debt collection agencies, then we will protect you from such actions.
We can help you through difficult financial times and explore the best options for you. Your path to financial freedom begins with us, and we will help you at every step of the legal process. Take the first step today and speak to our bankruptcy lawyers. We will protect your debtor rights and help you with the process ahead.
What Are The Types of Bankruptcies in Lansing?
There are a total of six main types of bankruptcy chapter designations under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code. This includes Chapters 7, 9, 11, 12, 13, and 15. Most filers only have to deal with three of these chapters, which include 7, 11, and 13.
Here is what chapters 7, 11 & 13 bankruptcy chapters entail:
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
Chapter 7 bankruptcy is when you liquidate (sell) your assets by filing for bankruptcy to repay creditors. A court-appointed trustee liquidates your non-exempt assets and discharges unsecured debt. This includes credit card and medical bills. This is ideal for you if you need a fresh start as an individual. U.S. Code Chapter 7/U.S.C. §§ 701–727
Chapter 11 Bankruptcy
Chapter 11 bankruptcy is usually filed by businesses to continue working as “debtor-in-possession.” This chapter allows you to keep your business while restructuring financial obligations. This repayment plan usually lasts around 3-5 years. U.S.C. Chapter 11/U.S.C. §§ 1101–1174
Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
Chapter 13 bankruptcy is a viable way out of overwhelming debt if you have a stable and regular income. If you have disposable income, you can keep your property, and a court-mandated repayment plan can help you get rid of the debts under this bankruptcy. U.S. Code Chapter 13/U.S.C. §§ 1301–1330
The process of filing bankruptcy includes many considerations, including the type, the filing fee, and the legal process itself. Our experienced bankruptcy attorneys will guide you through each step.
What Are The Benefits of Filing for Bankruptcy?
Each bankruptcy type gives you specific benefits, such as automatic stays, halting creditor actions, and providing a repayment plan. Whether by reorganization or liquidation, you get rid of your debt and start anew without the weight of any obligations.
Which Debt Types Are Eliminated After Filing for Bankruptcy in Lansing?
When you file for bankruptcy, a dischargeable type of debt is eliminated. From credit card balances to medical bills, you free yourself of specific unsecured debt by filing for liquidation or reorganization. In some cases, a court may order you to repay the debt in a settlement.
Here are the key debt types eliminated by each bankruptcy type:
| Chapter 7 | Chapter 11 | Chapter 13 |
| Credit card debt | Business debts | Credit card debt |
| Deficiency balances | Credit card debt | Medical debt |
| Medical bills | Personal loans | Deficiency balances |
| Personal loans (from banks or credit unions) | Unsecured business debts, including utility bills | Personal loans |
| Payday loans | – | Payday loans |
We understand how important it is to get a fresh start after filing for bankruptcy. We work on a comprehensive strategy designed to handle the process and help you get to easier financial times. Let our Lansing bankruptcy law firm assist you in the process.
Which Assets Are Protected Under Bankruptcy Laws in Lansing?
People or companies can protect certain belongings in every type of bankruptcy. Businesses are usually allowed by the bankruptcy code to hold onto the equipment and tools they need to keep the wheel turning. As an individual, you might be able to keep important and exempt property, like your house or your car.
Here are the protected assets in each bankruptcy chapter:
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
- Clothing and other personal belongings
- Household goods and furnishings
- Motor vehicles (up to a certain value)
- Primary residence (Homestead or exempt property)*
- Retirement accounts (ERISA-qualified)
Chapter 11 Bankruptcy
- Business equipment
- Cash collateral (with court approval)
- Intellectual property
- Inventory
- Real estate holdings
Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
- Bank accounts (up to exemption limits)
- Jewelry (up to a certain value)
- Personal property
- Public benefits (Social Security, etc.)
- Tools of the trade
We know how important your personal and business assets are to you. Our priority is protecting your exempt assets when filing for bankruptcy.
Our experienced bankruptcy lawyers will fight hard to keep your important assets secured.
* Any non-exempt mortgage payments will not be discharged in most bankruptcy filings.
Are There Bankruptcy Alternatives for Debt Settlement in Lansing?
Yes, there are multiple alternatives for debt settlement other than bankruptcy. While bankruptcy is a long-term legal solution, mediation and direct resolutions with creditors can help you find a suitable alternative.
The following are the most common types of bankruptcy alternatives:
- Debt consolidation, which combines multiple debts into one singular loan.
- Debt counseling allows you to get professional guidance regarding budgeting.
- Debt management programs (DMPs) allow structured repayment plans through credit counselling.
- Debt negotiation allows you to directly negotiate with creditors to lower interest rates.
- Debt relief programs that reduce total debt or provide relief through other measures.
- Debt settlement, also known as paying a lump sum to settle debts, is usually less than what is owed.
- Loan modification to change the loan terms with lenders.
Opting for an alternative to bankruptcy can save you a lot of time and trouble. If there are other viable options, rest assured that we will suggest them to you. Let our bankruptcy attorneys analyze your financial situation and help you with the steps ahead.
How Do I File for Bankruptcy in Lansing?
The filing process for each bankruptcy type is similar yet different in some regard. Each step is a thorough process, from means test to filing. Frego & Associates will provide the legal assistance that you need to ensure it is done correctly.
Here is how each bankruptcy process is filed:
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy (Liquidation)
- Pass the means test
- File a petition with all required documents
- Benefit from the automatic stay
- Attend the meeting of creditors
- Receive your debt discharge
Chapter 11 Bankruptcy (Reorganization)
- File the bankruptcy petition
- Operate the business as a debtor-in-possession
- Negotiate with the creditors committee
- Obtain court confirmation of the plan
- Implement the reorganization plan
Chapter 13 Bankruptcy (Repayment Plan)
- Complete mandatory credit counseling
- File a petition for the repayment plan
- Benefit from the automatic stay
- Attend the court confirmation hearing
- Complete the repayment plan
- Receive the debt discharge
The steps in each bankruptcy type can be challenging. Get legal consultation from our Lansing bankruptcy lawyers and allow us to manage the process for you.
What Should You Expect After Filing for Bankruptcy in Lansing?
After filing for bankruptcy, the plan is reviewed by the court. In Chapter 11 and 13 bankruptcy cases, the court will appoint a trustee and a creditor. Once they approve the plan, your process will officially commence, and an automatic stay will be granted.
Here is what you should expect in each bankruptcy chapter:
Chapter 7: After the liquidation bankruptcy is approved, an automatic stay will be ordered by the court. This stay will halt any debt collection efforts. The court-appointed trustees will then sell your assets (liquidate) to repay the creditors. This will discharge any debt by satisfying the creditors.
Chapter 11: Depending on the repayment plan, this may take a couple of months before a final judgment is given. The immediate automatic stay will halt any creditor actions. Once a 3-5-year or 5-7-year plan is approved, your repayment/reorganization bankruptcy will be finalized.
Chapter 13: This will require you to pay the trustee every month once the court approves the plan. Automatic stay will protect you from any creditor actions while halting collection efforts.
Get A FREE Consultation From a Lansing Bankruptcy Lawyer
Financial troubles and difficulties can impact your life in many ways. Bankruptcy may be a viable option for these issues for you. You are not alone in this, and we are with you every step of the way. Our local Lansing bankruptcy attorneys will help you through the process.
Here is how Frego & Associates will assist you:
- Assess your financial situation with a detailed review
- Brief you on the best bankruptcy option for you
- Clarify the merits and demerits of each option
- Draft and file bankruptcy petitions on your behalf
- Engage with the court and creditors as needed
- Guide you through the legal process step by step
- Help negotiate a fair repayment plan where possible
- Keep you updated with clear, regular progress reports
This may be a difficult decision for you, but you will not be alone through it. With Frego & Associates, getting a fresh start is just a click away. Let us begin today and help you through the process.
We also offer online appointments for your ease. Contact us for a free bankruptcy consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Start by gathering your financial documents, including tax returns, pay stubs, and debt statements. Consult with an experienced bankruptcy lawyer to evaluate your situation and the options that you have. Discuss which of the chapters of bankruptcy would suit your situation. Ask all the questions you have and address all your concerns before moving forward.
The 314 hearing is usually a 5-to-15-minute meeting where a trustee will verify your identity and ask questions under oath. Nowadays, this meeting is usually done virtually to save time and resources. They will also invite creditors during this meeting to ask questions, but they may not be available or needed in smaller cases. Your attorney can be present during this procedure.
The automatic stay will provide immediate legal protection and halt all of the collection activities instantly. This includes any phone calls, wage garnishments, lawsuits, or repossession efforts by the creditors. Foreclosure proceedings are also halted by the automatic stay, which gives you the breathing spell that you need to reorganize your finances.
Federal and state laws protect your assets from foreclosure or repossession. This means a law firm can help you through the exemptions and protect the assets that are exempt from any recollection or repossession efforts of the creditors. They can also assist you through the difficult phases and simplify technical/legal jargon to make the legal process easy to understand.
The Chapter 7 bankruptcy process typically takes around three to six months (counting from filing day to final discharge). Chapter 13 is a longer commitment, as it requires a thorough process. After getting a court-approved payment plan, it can last around 3-5 years for the reorganization and repayment plans to conclude. Some medium or larger businesses that file for Chapter 11 may even need 5-7 years to complete the plan.
Source:
[1] 2025 Case Statistics US Bankruptcy Court Western District of Michigan. (2025). US Bankruptcy Court Western District of Michigan. https://ecf.miwb.uscourts.gov/ecfstatsdash-new.html
Received Accolades:
206-2010, 2012, 2014-2021
American Bankruptcy Institute
Certified as a Bankruptcy Specialist by ABC
National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys
Better Business Bureau
Nearest Office - Flint
1324 W Bristol Rd
Flint, MI 48507
Serving Lansing from our Flint office
Monday: 9 AM-5:15 PM
Tuesday: 9 AM-5:15 PM
Wednesday: 9 AM-5:15 PM
Thursday: 9 AM-5:15 PM
Friday: 9 AM-5:15 PM
Saturday: 9 AM-12 PM
Sunday: Closed
Appointments as late as 6:30 Mon-Th by phone only