Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Lawyer in Avon Lake, OH
Deciding to file for bankruptcy in Elyria, OH can be challenging. For the past 25 years, Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Attorney Michael D. Doyle has been practicing before the United States District Court, Northern District of Ohio, where bankruptcy cases are adjudicated. His extensive experience as a Bankruptcy Attorney equips him with the knowledge to advise you on whether bankruptcy is a viable solution for your financial difficulties.
Financial distress is overwhelming. Collection calls and wage garnishments can be both humiliating and financially ruinous. Filing for bankruptcy puts an end to collection calls, lawsuits, wage garnishments, and other debt collection efforts.
Avon Lake Bankruptcy Attorney
There are two main types of bankruptcy available to consumers: Chapter 7 Bankruptcy and Chapter 13 Bankruptcy.
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
- Often referred to as straight bankruptcy, most individuals qualify for this option.
- Most debts are discharged, meaning you are no longer personally liable for them. Bankruptcy generally cannot discharge most taxes, student loans, and domestic support obligations.
- Many assets, such as homes, vehicles, household goods, jewelry, and retirement savings, can be retained unless their value exceeds the legal exemption amount. However, if you have a loan on your home, vehicle, or other asset you wish to keep, you must continue making the payments.
- To file under Chapter 7, your income must be insufficient to cover your debts after paying for reasonable living expenses. Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Lawyer Michael D. Doyle, located conveniently near Avon Lake, OH, can assess your situation to determine if you qualify for this option.
Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
- Your debts are restructured and paid back over three to five years under a manageable payment plan.
- Chapter 13 is suitable for individuals with higher incomes or valuable assets that disqualify them from Chapter 7 bankruptcy.
- Chapter 13 can help prevent foreclosure.
- You have the option to retain your home and vehicle by continuing payments or surrender them to stop payments.
- Judgment liens or second mortgages can often be converted to unsecured debt and eliminated.
I Would Highly Recommend Him “Very professional and will answer any questions that you may have even if you think they might not be important.” - Thomas
Direct and Personal Service in Avon Lake, OH
The office of Bankruptcy Attorney Michael D. Doyle is a debt relief agency assisting people with filing for bankruptcy under the bankruptcy code.
Unlike some bankruptcy law firms, when you call the office of Michael D. Doyle, Attorney at Law, you will not meet with an administrative assistant or low level associate attorney and be given a videotape to watch only to be told that “you don’t qualify” without ever meeting an experienced bankruptcy attorney. You will meet with Bankruptcy Attorney Michael D. Doyle personally located near Avon Lake, OH, to discuss and assess your financial situation to determine whether bankruptcy is the right option for you.
Free Initial Bankruptcy Consultation
Call today for your free initial consultation. During this meeting, you can confidentially discuss your situation with Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Lawyer Michael D. Doyle, who will personally advise you of your options. Attorney Doyle will explain how the Bankruptcy Code enables individuals who can no longer pay their bills to have a fresh start while retaining much of their property.
Attorney Michael D. Doyle has extensive experience in personal bankruptcy. He will support you throughout the process, from preparing and filing the Bankruptcy petition to the creditors' meeting and discharge. If your case requires a hearing, he will represent you personally. Your case will not be handed over to another attorney unfamiliar with your personal situation.
Payment plans are available for fees, and full payment is not required to start your case. You can begin with a minimum retainer payment of $100.00.
Call the office, located near Avon Park, and ask for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Lawyer Michael D. Doyle today for your free initial consultation to discuss your case and explore how you can achieve a debt-free life.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bankruptcy in Avon Lake, OH
- What are the benefits of hiring a Chapter 7 bankruptcy lawyer in Avon Lake?
- Hiring a Chapter 7 bankruptcy lawyer in Avon Lake, like Michael D. Doyle, ensures that you receive expert guidance through the bankruptcy process. An experienced lawyer can help you understand your options, protect your assets, and stop collection calls, wage garnishments, and lawsuits. Attorney Doyle’s extensive experience in bankruptcy law provides the knowledge and skills needed to achieve the best possible outcome for your financial situation.
- How do I know if I qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Avon Lake?
- To qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Avon Lake, your income must be insufficient to cover your debts after paying for reasonable living expenses. Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Lawyer Michael D. Doyle can assess your financial situation to determine if you meet the eligibility requirements. During your free initial consultation, he will review your income, expenses, and debts to see if you qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy.
- What assets can I keep if I file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Avon Lake?
- In a Chapter 7 bankruptcy, many assets such as your home, vehicle, household goods, jewelry, and retirement savings can be retained if their value does not exceed the legal exemption amount. If you have loans on any of these assets, you must continue making payments to keep them. Attorney Michael D. Doyle will help you understand what you can keep and what might be subject to liquidation.
- What debts are discharged in a Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Avon Lake?
- Most debts can be discharged in a Chapter 7 bankruptcy, meaning you are no longer personally liable for them. However, certain debts like most taxes, student loans, and domestic support obligations typically cannot be discharged. Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Lawyer Michael D. Doyle will help you understand which of your debts can be discharged and which cannot.
- How does filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Ohio affect my credit?
- Filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Ohio will negatively impact your credit score and remain on your credit report for up to 10 years. However, it can also provide a fresh start by eliminating overwhelming debt and stopping collection actions. Over time, you can rebuild your credit by managing your finances responsibly. Attorney Michael D. Doyle can provide guidance on steps to take post-bankruptcy to improve your credit score.
- What is the difference between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy?
- Chapter 7 bankruptcy, often referred to as straight bankruptcy, involves the discharge of most debts and is suitable for individuals with insufficient income to cover their debts. Chapter 13 bankruptcy involves restructuring debts and paying them back over three to five years under a manageable payment plan. Chapter 13 is suitable for individuals with higher incomes or valuable assets that disqualify them from Chapter 7. Attorney Michael D. Doyle can help you determine which type of bankruptcy is right for you based on your financial situation.
- What should I expect during my initial consultation with a Chapter 7 bankruptcy lawyer in Avon Lake?
- During your initial consultation with Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Lawyer Michael D. Doyle in Avon Lake, you will discuss your financial situation in detail. Attorney Doyle will review your income, expenses, assets, and debts to determine if Chapter 7 bankruptcy is the right option for you. He will explain the bankruptcy process, answer any questions you have, and outline the next steps. This consultation is confidential and aimed at helping you make informed decisions about your financial future.
- How long does the Chapter 7 bankruptcy process take in Avon Lake?
- While this varies, the Chapter 7 bankruptcy process in Avon Lake typically takes about 4 to 6 months from the time you file your petition until your debts are discharged. This timeline can vary depending on the complexity of your case and the court’s schedule. Attorney Michael D. Doyle will guide you through each step of the process, from filing your petition to attending the creditors' meeting and obtaining your discharge.
- Can I file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Avon Lake if I am currently employed?
- Yes, you can file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Avon Lake if you are currently employed. Your eligibility will depend on your income and whether it is insufficient to cover your debts after paying for reasonable living expenses. During your consultation, Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Lawyer Michael D. Doyle will evaluate your financial situation to determine if you qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy despite being employed.