Chapter 7

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Lawyer in Cuyahoga County

Helping Clients Seek a Fresh Start

If you are struggling to keep up with the rising cost of living, it may be time to consider filing for bankruptcy. Many people think of bankruptcy as a last resort, but it is actually a legal tool that can be used to help you gain control of your finances and put your life back on track.

At Van Ness Law, we are committed to helping people just like you get their lives back. Our firm has helped countless people file for bankruptcy relief. We are committed to helping our clients get the relief they deserve — and we are ready to help you, too.

Our Cuyahoga County Chapter 7 bankruptcy lawyer can help you determine whether filing for bankruptcy is right for you. We can also help you navigate the complex bankruptcy court system and ensure that your rights are protected.

If you are facing mounting debt, creditor harassment, or foreclosure, we can help you find a solution. Van Ness Law can provide the legal guidance you need to get your life back on track.

What Is Chapter 7 Bankruptcy?

Chapter 7 bankruptcy is also known as straight or liquidation bankruptcy. Under this type of bankruptcy, individuals can eliminate unsecured debt, such as credit card debt, medical bills, and personal loans.

Under Chapter 7 bankruptcy, a court-appointed trustee gathers the debtor's non-exempt assets and sells them at a public auction. The proceeds from the sale are then used to pay back creditors. Any remaining unsecured debt is discharged after the case is closed.

In Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you can typically keep your house, car, and personal possessions. You can also typically keep earnings, benefits, and property that are protected by Ohio's bankruptcy exemption laws.

The process of filing for bankruptcy can be complex. You need an experienced Cuyahoga County Chapter 7 bankruptcy attorney who can guide you through the process and make sure your rights are protected. Van Ness Law can help! Call (440) 650-1787 today.

What Are the Advantages of Chapter 7 Bankruptcy?

Filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy can have many benefits. For example, it can help you eliminate unsecured debt, including credit card debt and medical bills. It can also help you eliminate foreclosure and repossession actions.

Chapter 7 bankruptcy can also help you:

  • Stop creditor harassment and phone calls from debt collectors
  • Eliminate the need to make monthly payments toward unsecured debt
  • Stop automatic payments to creditors
  • Eliminate the threat of repossession of your car
  • Eliminate the threat of foreclosure and eviction
  • Stop lawsuits and other legal actions from creditors
  • Stop wage garnishment
  • Stop the seizure of your tax refund
  • Stop the seizure of your bank account
  • Debt discharge: Chapter 7 bankruptcy allows for the discharge of unsecured debts, such as credit card debt, medical bills, and personal loans, giving you a clean slate to start rebuilding your financial future.
  • Quick process: Chapter 7 bankruptcy typically takes around 3-6 months to complete, providing a relatively swift resolution to your financial difficulties.
  • Retain exempt property: In many cases, individuals filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy can retain certain exempt property, such as a primary residence and necessary personal belongings

Our attorneys can help you determine whether Chapter 7 bankruptcy is right for you. We can also help you determine which Ohio bankruptcy exemptions you can use to protect your assets.

Call (440) 650-1787 or contact Van Ness Law online here to schedule a free initial consultation.

Client Reviews

Read What They Say About Us
  • “I was nervous about filing bankruptcy until I sat down with Charles.”
    “To say that I left his office with excitement and confidence about my future would be an understatement. My experience was excellent. Charles is a true professional.”
    - Antonio J.
  • “Mr. Van Ness is an excellent lawyer and very responsive and respectful.”
    “He immediately puts you at ease and answer any questions you have. I was very nervous thru the whole process but as he said no question is silly.”
    - Pat G.
  • “Mr. Van Ness is a very thorough, professional lawyer.”
    “He works quickly to get the job done.”
    - Debbie K.
  • “Mr. Van Ness and his staff were thorough, patient and helpful.”
    “They made certain we were comfortable with each step before proceeding.”
    - Leonard R.
  • “One of the BEST LAWYERS!!!”
    “He plays no Games get right down to business & if he says he's on it.”
    - Airrion D,
  • “Mr. Charles Van Ness is a great man to whomever is in need of his service”
    Mr. Charles Van Ness is a great man to whomever is in need of his service I would strongly recommend him to you… even though I did not accomplish anything from the estate he did work hard to try and do so I appreciate the effort and blessings to his
    - Anna W.
  • “I would definitely recommend Van Ness Law for your bankruptcy needs.”
    “I was also treated with respect and never felt ashamed or embarrassed because of the bankruptcy.”
    - Degra S.
  • “Love him. Very fast. Very nice. Answered all of my questions.”
    “Glad I found him. Great guy! Thank you for your help and for being so thorough.”
    - Former Client

How Do I Qualify for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy?

In order to qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you must pass a means test. This test determines whether you have enough disposable income to pay back some of your debt. If you do not pass the means test, you may be able to qualify for Chapter 13 bankruptcy.

If you pass the means test, you can then file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. The court will appoint a trustee to oversee your bankruptcy case. The trustee's job is to sell your property and distribute the proceeds to your creditors.

After your case is over, you will no longer be responsible for any unsecured debt. This means you will no longer be responsible for credit card debt, medical bills, personal loans, and so on.

How Can a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Attorney Help?

A Chapter 7 bankruptcy attorney provides invaluable aid to individuals experiencing financial distress. They guide clients through the intricacies of the bankruptcy process, providing legal advice and representation to safeguard their interests. Through their expertise and knowledge of bankruptcy laws and regulations, they offer strategic solutions that can lead to financial recovery.

Bankruptcy attorneys provide a range of services such as:

  • Legal Advisory: They provide sound legal advice about the best course of action based on the client's financial situation. They help clients understand the implications of filing for bankruptcy and other alternatives available.
  • Guidance Through Legal Processes: They guide clients through the entire bankruptcy process, from filing the petition, navigating court procedures, to the eventual discharge of debts.
  • Asset Protection: They help clients understand and apply bankruptcy exemptions to protect as much property as possible during the bankruptcy process.
  • Negotiation with Creditors: They handle negotiations with creditors to potentially reduce the amount of debt or to establish a manageable payment plan.
  • Representation in Court: They represent the client’s interests in bankruptcy court, ensuring all legal obligations are met and rights are protected.
  • Post-bankruptcy Counseling: They offer counseling services for life after bankruptcy, helping clients establish strong financial habits to prevent future financial distress.

 

The process of filing for bankruptcy can be complex. You need an experienced Cuyahoga County Chapter 7 bankruptcy attorney who can guide you through the process and make sure your rights are protected. Van Ness Law can help! Call (440) 650-1787 today.