Warren, Michigan Bankruptcy Lawyer
One of the Best Bankruptcy Attorneys in Warren, MI
Office Location
30800 Van Dyke Ave
Warren, MI 48093
Monday – Friday : 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Saturdays : 9:30am – 11:30 by phone only
In office appointments as late as 6:30 on Wednesday. We offer over phone late night appointments Mon-Thur
Highly Recommended
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Are You Drowning in Debt and Feeling Overwhelmed? It's Time to Seek Help from A Bankruptcy Lawyer in Warren, Michigan.
Imagine the weight lifted off your shoulders as you regain control of your financial future. With our experienced bankruptcy lawyers in Warren, Michigan, you can have peace of mind knowing that your case is in capable hands.
Don’t wait any longer. Take charge of your financial situation and contact our Warren, Michigan, bankruptcy lawyers today for a consultation. Let us help you start afresh and build a path towards financial stability.
What is Bankruptcy?
Bankruptcy is a legal process that offers you and/or your business a chance to overcome financial difficulties and achieve a fresh start. It is governed by federal law and allows you to either eliminate your debts or develop a repayment plan to satisfy your creditors.
Bankruptcy law in Warren County adheres to the federal bankruptcy code, which provides a legal framework if you are seeking relief from overwhelming debt.
The process involves filing a bankruptcy petition in the appropriate federal court, where experienced bankruptcy judges oversee the case. These judges have extensive knowledge of bankruptcy law and are well-versed in guiding debtors to financial recovery.
Bankruptcy Process and Petition Requirements in Warren, Michigan
When filing for bankruptcy in Warren County, you must adhere to the steps outlined by the federal courts and the relevant bankruptcy laws. To begin the process, you need to gather and organize essential documents, such as:
- Asset and liability records
- Income statements
- Recent financial statements
- Tax returns
The next step involves completing the bankruptcy petition, which requires detailed information about your financial situation, including:
- Assets
- Debts
- Expenses
- Income
Be accurate and honest when providing this information. Any inconsistencies or omissions may lead to complications during your bankruptcy proceedings.
Once you have prepared the necessary documents and completed the petition, you must file them with the appropriate bankruptcy court in Warren County. After filing, an automatic stay goes into effect, halting any ongoing collection efforts by creditors.
The bankruptcy process in Warren County involves attending a meeting of creditors, where you will testify under oath about your financial situation.
A bankruptcy judge will review your case and determine the appropriate bankruptcy plan based on your circumstances.
Types of Bankruptcy Filings in Michigan
When considering bankruptcy as a solution to financial difficulties, in Warren County, you’ll have the option of filing for either liquidation bankruptcy or reorganization bankruptcy. These two types of bankruptcy filings have different goals and processes.
Liquidation bankruptcy, also known as Chapter 7 bankruptcy, involves the sale of your assets to pay off your debts. The main goal of liquidation bankruptcy is to provide a fresh start for you by completely eliminating unsecured debts. [1]
This process is overseen by a bankruptcy trustee who manages the sale of the assets and distributes the proceeds to creditors.
According to state and federal regulations, you can keep certain exempt assets, such as your primary residence or personal belongings.
On the other hand, reorganization bankruptcy, or Chapter 13 bankruptcy, aims to provide a structured repayment plan for you.
Unlike liquidation bankruptcy, the goal of reorganization bankruptcy is to allow you to retain your assets and repay your debts over a period of three to five years. [2]
This type of bankruptcy is suitable for individuals with a regular income who can afford to make monthly payments towards their debts. A bankruptcy trustee oversees the repayment plan and ensures that you adhere to it.
Both liquidation and reorganization bankruptcies have their benefits and drawbacks. Liquidation bankruptcy offers a quicker debt relief process, typically lasting a few months, but it may require sacrificing non-exempt assets.
Credit Score Impact from Filing for Bankruptcy
When you file for bankruptcy, it is noted on your credit report and remains there for several years.
This can make it challenging to obtain credit or loans in the future. Filing for bankruptcy may result in a decrease in credit score. This decrease can occur because bankruptcy is seen as a significant negative event in a person’s financial history.
Debt Relief Options Beyond Just Credit Cards or Loans
When facing overwhelming debt, people often turn to credit cards or loans to try and find relief. There are several other debt-relief options that you may consider, depending on the specific circumstances. Here are a few alternatives to credit cards or loans:
- Bankruptcy: When other options are not viable, bankruptcy offers a legal solution to eliminate or restructure debt. It provides you immediate relief and protection from creditors, but it should be considered as a last resort due to its long-term impact on credit.
- Debt Consolidation: This option combines multiple debts into a single loan, usually at a lower interest rate. It simplifies repayment by merging debts into one monthly payment.
- Debt Management Plans (DMP): Offered through credit counseling agencies, DMPs involve creating a budget and working with creditors to establish a repayment plan. The agency negotiates lower interest rates and monthly payments on behalf of the debtor.
- Debt Settlement: This involves negotiating with creditors to reduce the total amount owed. Typically, a lump-sum payment is made to settle the debt for less than what is owed.
Each debt relief option has its own advantages and considerations. It is important that you assess individual financial situations and consult with a qualified professional, such as an experienced bankruptcy attorney, to determine the best course of action.
Contact Our Experienced Bankruptcy Attorneys in Warren, Michigan Today
If you are looking for experienced bankruptcy attorneys in Warren, Michigan, look no further than the legal team at Frego Law. Our knowledgeable and experienced attorneys are here to help you understand the bankruptcy process and explore all of your debt relief options.
We will work with you to find the best solution for your unique situation and guide you through every step of the process. We offer complimentary consultations, so contact us today to learn more about how our bankruptcy attorneys can help you.
Sources:
[1] Chapter 7 – Bankruptcy Basics. (n.d.). United States Courts. https://www.uscourts.gov/services-forms/bankruptcy/bankruptcy-basics/chapter-7-bankruptcy-basics
[2] Chapter 13 Bankruptcy – Voluntary Reorganization of Debt for Individuals | Internal Revenue Service. (n.d.). Chapter 13 Bankruptcy – Voluntary Reorganization of Debt for Individuals | Internal Revenue Service https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/chapter-13-bankruptcy-voluntary-reorganization-of-debt-for-individuals
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
Office Location
30800 Van Dyke Ave
Warren, MI 48093
Monday – Friday : 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Saturdays : 9:30am – 11:30 by phone only
In office appointments as late as 6:30 on Wednesday. We offer over phone late night appointments Mon-Thur