Looking for a bankruptcy lawyer in Salt Lake City, Utah? When debt feels overwhelming, understanding your options is a good place to start. This website offers general bankruptcy information to help you prepare questions for a local attorney and take the next step toward making an informed decision.
Phone: (385) 341-5341
Looking to speak with a bankruptcy lawyer? Please call or text. Leave your name, callback number, and a brief message about your situation. Please avoid including sensitive financial information.
Understanding Your Bankruptcy Options
Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 are two bankruptcy options for individuals. Chapter 7 may eliminate qualifying debts, but property that is not protected by applicable exemptions may be sold to repay creditors. Chapter 13 allows eligible individuals with regular income to repay all or part of their debts through a court-approved plan, usually over three to five years. A bankruptcy attorney can review your income, debts, and property, explain the requirements, and discuss bankruptcy and alternatives based on your circumstances.
Background sources for your reference: U.S. Courts: Chapter 7 and U.S. Courts: Chapter 13.
Can Bankruptcy Stop Collection Calls?
Filing for bankruptcy generally creates an automatic stay, a legal protection that pauses many collection efforts, including calls demanding payment, collection lawsuits, and wage garnishments. There are exceptions, and the protection may be limited if you have filed bankruptcy before. Calling a lawyer does not start the automatic stay. A bankruptcy lawyer can explain whether filing could help with the collection activity you are facing and what deadlines may affect your options.
Can I Keep My Home or Car?
Filing for bankruptcy does not automatically mean losing your home or car. What you can keep depends on the bankruptcy chapter, your equity in the property, applicable exemptions, and the status of any mortgage or vehicle loan. Chapter 7 may protect exempt property, while Chapter 13 may allow eligible individuals to catch up on certain overdue payments through a repayment plan. Mortgage and vehicle loan obligations still matter. A bankruptcy lawyer can review your circumstances and explain the options for protecting your property.
Preparing for a Consultation
Before meeting with a bankruptcy lawyer, ask what documents to bring. Helpful information may include recent pay stubs or other income records, tax returns, bank statements, a list of debts, and an estimate of monthly living expenses. Gather information about your home, vehicles, and other property, including any loans against them. Bring collection letters or court papers, and note any upcoming deadlines. Write down your main concerns and what you hope to accomplish so you can make the most of the conversation.
Questions to Ask a Bankruptcy Lawyer
- What bankruptcy options or alternatives should I consider?
- Which of my debts could be discharged, and which would remain?
- How could filing affect my home, vehicle, and other property?
- What are your attorney fees and the other costs, and what do they include?
- What documents will you need, and what should I expect during the process?
Contact
Phone: (385) 341-5341
Looking to speak with a bankruptcy lawyer? Please call or text. Leave your name, callback number, and a brief message about your situation. Please avoid including sensitive financial information.