What Chapter 7 does
Chapter 7 is sometimes called a fresh start. Once your debts are discharged, creditors cannot collect them from you again. For most people that means credit cards, medical bills and personal loans are gone.
How a Chapter 7 case works with Jeff
- A free consultation by phone, video or in person, where Jeff tells you whether Chapter 7 fits and what it costs.
- You upload your documents electronically. Your petition is usually ready in a few days, and in an emergency it can be ready in hours.
- One in-person meeting to review and sign, and your case is filed.
Not sure Chapter 7 is right?
If your income is above the means test limit, or you are behind on a house or car you want to keep, Chapter 13 may be the better tool. Jeff will tell you straight which one fits.
Key points
Discharges most unsecured debt
Credit cards, medical bills, personal loans and many old judgments can be wiped out. Some debts, like most student loans, child support and recent taxes, generally survive.
Stops collection right away
The automatic stay starts the day your case is filed. Creditor calls, garnishments and most lawsuits have to stop.
Often done in three to six months
Chapter 7 is the faster chapter. Most cases close within a few months of filing.
Eligibility and property protection
Eligibility for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in San Diego is determined by the bankruptcy means test, which compares household income to California median income levels. California exemption laws often allow individuals to retain essential property, including household goods, retirement accounts and, in many cases, a vehicle or home.
Each client's situation is reviewed individually to determine whether bankruptcy is appropriate and which chapter best meets their needs. Chapter 7 is commonly used by individuals who need relief from unsecured debt and do not have sufficient income to repay creditors. Qualifying debt can include credit cards, medical bills, personal loans, payday loans and certain judgments.
What happens to collections?
Filing for bankruptcy activates an automatic stay, which stops most collection activity. This includes creditor phone calls, lawsuits, wage garnishments, bank levies, repossessions and foreclosure actions. Bankruptcy provides a way to address debt in an orderly manner under the law.
Personal attention from consultation to discharge
At The Schreiber Law Firm, every case receives personal attention from the initial consultation to final discharge. Jeff offers clear explanations, careful case evaluation and representation through the bankruptcy process. Because the firm operates with low overhead, reasonable fees and flexible payment options are available.
You can schedule a consultation by telephone or in person at either the El Cajon or La Jolla office. After you send the relevant documents electronically, you review and sign your petition in person before the firm files it with the court.