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Bankruptcy Attorney in Savannah, Georgia

Bankruptcy is a legal process that helps individuals or businesses who are unable to pay their debts seek relief. It's a way for you to say, "I need help managing my financial obligations."

At Pytte Law, I firmly believe that everyone deserves a second chance, and sometimes, filing for bankruptcy is the best way to get that. 

Do You Need an Attorney's Help Through Bankruptcy?

Seeking the guidance of an attorney during the bankruptcy process is crucial, as they offer expertise in navigating the legal intricacies to ensure your rights are protected and the filing is conducted properly. A bankruptcy attorney can: 

  • Evaluate your financial situation to determine which type of bankruptcy (Chapter 7, 11, or 13) is most suitable for your specific case. 

  • Safeguard assets by helping to maximize the exemptions you're entitled to under the law. 

  • Handle paperwork and documentation, meticulously preparing and reviewing all filings to avoid errors that could jeopardize your case. 

  • Represent you at meetings and court hearings, advocating on your behalf and handling negotiations with creditors. 

  • Provide legal advice on the consequences of bankruptcy, including its impact on your credit score and future financial opportunities. 

By having a seasoned attorney at your side, you gain not just legal representation, but also peace of mind, knowing you have an expert fighting for your fresh start. 

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Different Types of Bankruptcy 

The United States Bankruptcy Code offers several chapters of bankruptcy, each designed for different situations. Understanding these options is pivotal for determining the best path forward. 

Chapter 7: Liquidation

Chapter 7 bankruptcy, often known as liquidation or straight bankruptcy, is the most common route. It involves the sale of non-exempt assets by a bankruptcy trustee to pay off creditors. It's ideal for individuals with limited income who cannot repay a portion of their debts. To qualify, you must pass the "means test," which determines if your income is low enough to file under Chapter 7

Chapter 11: Reorganization 

Chapter 11 bankruptcy is primarily for businesses, allowing them to continue operating while reorganizing their debts. It's also available to individuals with debts or assets exceeding Chapter 13 limits. This option lets the debtor propose a plan to keep the business alive and pay creditors over time. The complexities of Chapter 11 require a thorough understanding of business finance and legal strategy. 

Chapter 13: Wage Earner's Plan 

Chapter 13 bankruptcy is for individuals with a steady income who can pay back part of their debts through a repayment plan. It allows debtors to keep their property and avoid foreclosure on their home by spreading out debt payments over three to five years. Qualification for Chapter 13 includes having sufficient income and debt within certain limits. 

In contrast to Chapter 7, which may require selling assets, Chapter 13 focuses on debt adjustment. Whereas Chapter 11 can be more flexible and tailored for businesses, it is also more complex and expensive to pursue. It's important to consult with a bankruptcy attorney to assess your financial situation and determine which chapter you may qualify for, and which will offer you the most benefit in the long term. 

Pros and Cons of Filing for Bankruptcy 

Filing for bankruptcy has both advantages and disadvantages. On the positive side, it can provide immediate relief from debt collection efforts, give you a fresh financial start, and even improve your credit over time.  

However, it's not without its downsides. Bankruptcy can impact your credit score, make it harder to get loans in the future, and may require you to relinquish some of your assets. 

The Bankruptcy Process 

The journey through bankruptcy begins with credit counseling from an approved agency within 180 days before filing.

Once this step is complete, the next stage is to file a petition with the bankruptcy court. Your petition is a collection of documents that outline your financial status, including assets, liabilities, income, expenses, and a detailed list of creditors. Accompanying schedules and statements provide a comprehensive look at your financial life, and this filing officially starts your case and the automatic stay, which halts most collection actions against you. 

After the petition, the court appoints a trustee to administer your case. The trustee’s role is to review the paperwork, sell non-exempt assets (if applicable in a Chapter 7 case), and distribute the proceeds to your creditors.

Meanwhile, a 341 meeting, or meeting of creditors, is scheduled, usually about a month after filing. Here, you must answer questions, under oath, from the trustee and any creditors about your finances and the submitted documents. Following this meeting, creditors have a set window to challenge the discharge of debts. For Chapter 13 and 11 filers, proposing a repayment plan is a critical step, which requires court confirmation.  

After completing all required steps, including debt education courses, the court will ultimately issue a discharge that releases you from personal liability for certain debts, thereby giving you that new financial beginning. 

Why Choose Our Law Firm?

My approach is friendly and conversational, and I aim to provide non-intimidating, helpful advice. I genuinely care about your financial well-being, and one of the things I love most about my job is hearing clients say they feel relieved and hopeful after our consultations. Getting a bankruptcy attorney's support is not just about resolving debts—it's about giving you a fresh start and the opportunity to rebuild your financial life. 

So why choose Pytte Law? Because I don't just work on cases—I build relationships. And I'm ready to help you to deal with this situation. Let's take this first step together. 

Bankruptcy Attorney in Savannah, Georgia 

If you're facing bankruptcy, get in touch with me today. I'll provide the information you need in a friendly and conversational manner, helping you understand your options and make informed decisions. Bankruptcy isn't the end—it's a chance for a fresh start. It's about regaining control over your financial life and moving forward with confidence.