Personalized Bankruptcy Services In Michigan

Wage garnishments, overwhelming credit card bills, mounting medical debt and falling behind on your car or house payments can happen to anyone. If you’re considering bankruptcy as a solution to your economic struggles, knowledgeable guidance and support can be crucial to your future financial well-being.

At Bieber & Lubinski, PLLC, in Center Line, Michigan, our skilled bankruptcy attorneys offer personalized assistance to individuals and families in Michigan. Our debt relief lawyer has over 20 years of combined experience and will work closely with you to provide practical solutions tailored to your needs.

We offer consistent, one-on-one attention throughout the entire process rather than being shuffled between different lawyers at larger firms.

What Is Bankruptcy, And How Can It Help Me?

Bankruptcy provides legal protection from creditors and offers a fresh start for people overwhelmed by debt they cannot repay. As soon as you file your bankruptcy petition, an automatic stay goes into effect, which immediately stops creditors from calling, garnishing wages or pursuing collection actions against you.

The two most common types of consumer bankruptcy are Chapter 7, also known as “liquidation bankruptcy,” and Chapter 13, called “wage earner bankruptcy.” Each is designed to address different financial situations. Here are some key differences:

Chapter 7:

• Eliminates most unsecured debts like credit cards and medical bills
• Typically completed within three to six months
• Requires passing a means test based on income
• May involve surrendering nonexempt assets
• Best for those with limited income and few assets

Chapter 13:

• Creates a three-to-five-year repayment plan for debts
• Allows you to keep your home and car while catching up on payments
• Reduces or eliminates certain debts after plan completion
• Available to those with regular income
• Provides protection from foreclosure and repossession

Both options can stop harassment from creditors and provide the breathing room you need to rebuild your financial life.

The Bankruptcy Process In Michigan

Filing for bankruptcy in Michigan involves several required steps that we guide you through from start to finish. Understanding this process helps reduce anxiety and ensures you meet all legal requirements.

The bankruptcy process includes:

• Initial consultation: We evaluate your financial situation to determine the type of bankruptcy that best fits your needs.
• Credit counseling: You must complete mandatory credit counseling from an approved agency within 180 days before filing.
• Petition filing: We prepare and file your bankruptcy petition along with detailed financial documents with the federal court.
• Meeting of creditors: You attend a brief meeting where the bankruptcy trustee asks questions about your finances under oath.
• Debtor education: You complete a required financial management course before receiving your discharge.
• Discharge: The court eliminates qualifying debts, giving you a fresh financial start.

We handle the paperwork and represent you throughout this process to make it as smooth as possible.

Bankruptcy FAQ

Here are answers to some common questions we hear from clients considering bankruptcy in Michigan.

Should I keep making payments on my debts?

Once you decide to file for bankruptcy, you should generally stop making payments on unsecured debts like credit cards and medical bills. However, continue paying secured debts, such as your mortgage and car loan, if you want to keep those assets. We’ll advise you on the best approach for your specific situation during our consultation.

How will bankruptcy affect my credit?

Bankruptcy will initially lower your credit score, but many clients see improvement within 12 to 18 months after discharge. However, each case is different. Chapter 7 remains on your credit report for 10 years, while Chapter 13 stays for seven years. However, you can begin rebuilding credit immediately after filing, and many people qualify for new credit cards and loans sooner than expected.

Can I keep any of my property if I file for bankruptcy?

Michigan law provides exemptions that protect essential assets, including your primary residence, vehicle, household goods, retirement accounts and work tools. Many people filing Chapter 7 can protect their vital assets through available exemptions, while Chapter 13 filers typically retain all their property by following their repayment plan. We’ll review your assets and explain what you can expect.

Contact an Experienced Michigan Bankruptcy Attorney Today

If you’re struggling with debt and considering bankruptcy, don’t wait to get the help you need. Contact Bieber & Lubinski, PLLC, by calling 586-754-1450 or completing our online form to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you achieve a fresh financial start.

We are a debt relief agency. We help people file for bankruptcy relief under the Bankruptcy Code.