Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Attorney
Bankruptcy is a journey. There are many different roads you can take, different turns you can make — each decision leading you in a different direction. Needless to say, it can get a bit confusing.
Chapter 7 is the most common type of individual bankruptcy, but that doesn't mean it is easy to navigate. To ensure that you are taking the right turns, it helps to have an experienced bankruptcy lawyer in your corner.
At A. Bradley McClain, Attorney at Law, I have over 10 years of experience guiding clients through bankruptcy — from filing to debt discharge.
When you come into my Akron office for your free initial consultation, we will discuss the aspects of your case, your debt history and the options before you. I will then work with you to fill out the necessary paperwork to file for a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy.
Filing For Chapter 7 Bankruptcy in Ohio
Before you are allowed to file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Ohio, you are required to complete a means test. Based on your income, with respect to the size of your family, the means test compares you to the mean income of the state.
If you are above the mean, you will not be able to file for Chapter 7. If you are below, the path is cleared for you to apply for debt relief under its guidelines.
Getting Rid of Bad Debt for a Fresh Start
Chapter 7 is a liquidation bankruptcy. Credit card balances, medical bills and more are discharged in one fell swoop. When you file for Chapter 7, an automatic stay goes into effect halting the garnishment of wages, home foreclosure and harassing collection calls.
Non-dischargeable Debts commonly include:
- Student loans
- Child support and spousal maintenance
- Past taxes
- Governmental fines and penalties
In most Chapter 7 cases, you will be able to keep your house and car, though they are not exempt. There is, however, certain property that is absolutely protected from liquidation under Chapter 7. It includes:
- Retirement plans
- 401 K
- IRA
- Social Security
- Veteran's Benefits
Schedule a free initial consultation by calling me at 330-752-1963 or contact A. Bradley McClain, Attorney at Law online. I am available on evenings and weekends by appointment and offer home visits.
A. Bradley McClain, Attorney at Law
209 South Main Street, Suite 800, 8th Floor
Akron, OH 44308
Phone: 330-752-1963
Toll Free: 866-721-8829
Fax: 330-376-4828
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