When most people think of bankruptcy, they are usually thinking of a Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Chapter 7 allows you to eliminate unsecured debt such as:
· Credit cards
· Medical bills
· Unsecured loans
· Personal loans
· Older tax debt may be dischargeable
· Debts from a vehicle repossession
· Home equity lines of credit (HELOC), if your home was foreclosed or surrendered
Reginald Hindley, Attorney at Law, has been helping clients file for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy for over 25 years. When clients contact our firm for assistance, we work closely with them to explain their options and help them through the bankruptcy process. Our staff is friendly and informative and available to assist you on the phone, via email, or in person. You will receive prompt, personal service and we strive to help our clients feel less stressed about their financial situation. Many law offices do not have the support staff to answer the phone and emails quickly, but we have staff available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. to assist you.
We represent clients throughout the North Bay with offices in Santa Rosa and San Francisco. Contact the firm online or call 707-575-3700 or 707-542-4200 to schedule your free initial consultation. You can also reach us at 415-202-0800.
Benefits of Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
Chapter 7 bankruptcy is a good option for debtors who need a fresh start financially. Chapter 7 will stop wage garnishments, bank levies, and lawsuits filed by creditors. Many assets, such as bank accounts, vehicles, equity in your home, and jewelry are protected under Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Once your Chapter 7 bankruptcy is completed you can begin rebuilding your credit. If you do nothing, your credit rating will continue showing late payments and balances owed.
Filing for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
Filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy is often the quickest way out of debt and the quickest way to rebuild credit. Once we have met with you and discussed your options, we will prepare the paperwork for filing, complete the Means Test and determine the best time to file.
You will need to be prepared to provide the following documents in order for us to prepare your case:
· A copy of your most recent filed tax return
· If you are working, copies of your paystubs for the last 6 months
· Copy of your valid picture ID (driver’s license)
· Copy of your SS card or other form of SS number verification
· Also, you will be required to take a credit counseling course (online or by telephone) before your case is filed and a Financial Management course after your case is filed. Our office provides clients with the information to complete these courses at the appropriate times.
Once your Chapter 7 bankruptcy is filed, the court immediately issues an order called an “automatic stay.” At that time, your creditors are prevented from taking any further steps to collect the debt. This bankruptcy order is often the relief most people need just to start putting their finances back in order.
Approximately 30 days after filing your case, you are required to attend a creditor meeting with your attorney. There is no judge present, but a trustee is assigned to your case and verifies the information in your bankruptcy petition. At the end of your case, you will receive an Order of Discharge issued by a Federal Bankruptcy Court. This court order prevents creditors from taking any further action to enforce collections against you. Learn more about the protection Chapter 7 bankruptcy offers. Contact Reginald Hindley, Attorney at Law, online or call 707-575-3700 to schedule your free initial consultation.