Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Lawyer in North Ridgeville, OH
Deciding to file for bankruptcy in North Ridgeville, OH, is a significant and challenging choice. With 25 years of experience, Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Lawyer Michael D. Doyle is well-versed in handling cases in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Ohio. His extensive background allows him to provide expert guidance on whether bankruptcy could be a beneficial solution for your financial challenges.
Financial difficulties can be incredibly stressful, with relentless collection calls and wage garnishments adding to the burden. Filing for bankruptcy can bring relief by stopping these collection efforts, lawsuits, and wage garnishments, allowing you to regain control over your finances.
Declaring Bankruptcy
There are two types of bankruptcy available to consumers seeking to declare bankruptcy: Chapter 7 Bankruptcy, and Chapter 13 Bankruptcy.
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
- Often called a straight bankruptcy. Most filers qualify for this option.
- Most debts are discharged in this option, meaning you are no longer personally responsible for the debt. Bankruptcy usually cannot discharge most taxes, student loans, and domestic support obligations.
- Many assets, including homes, vehicles, household goods, jewelry, and retirement savings can be maintained unless they have significant value above an “exemption” amount determined by law. However, if you still have an outstanding loan on your home, vehicle or other asset that you wish to keep, you must continue to make the payments.
- In order to file under Chapter 7, you must have inadequate income to pay for debts after paying your reasonable living expenses. Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Lawyer Michael D. Doyle, conveniently located near North Ridgeville, OH, can evaluate your situation and tell you if you qualify for this option.
Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
- Instead of being immediately discharged, your debts are restructured and paid back over three to five years under a payment plan that you can afford.
- Chapter 13 is an option for people with incomes too high or with assets too valuable to qualify for a Chapter 7 bankruptcy.
- Chapter 13 can often help you to avoid foreclosure.
- You can decide whether to keep your home and vehicle and continue to make payments or to surrender them to stop payments.
- If you have judgment liens or second mortgages, these can often be “stripped off” and converted to unsecured debt.
Direct and Personal Service
The office of Bankruptcy Attorney Michael D. Doyle serves as a debt relief agency, assisting individuals in filing for bankruptcy under the bankruptcy code.
When you contact the office of Michael D. Doyle, Attorney at Law, you won’t be greeted by an administrative assistant or junior associate and handed a video to watch only to be told you “don’t qualify” without ever speaking to a qualified attorney. Instead, you will meet directly with Bankruptcy Attorney Michael D. Doyle near North Ridgeville, OH, to discuss and evaluate your financial situation and determine if bankruptcy is the best option for you.
HE IS A SHARK IN A SUIT “Mr. Doyle represented me through a very difficult situation. The only thing that was comforting about the entire experience was, when you meet him in person you realize immediately he is a shark in a suit and he is on your side. His receptionist is an absolute sweetheart and can usually answer any question you have if Mr. Doyle is out of the office. It's been two years since I've needed him and I still carry his card in my wallet.” - Jonathan
Bankruptcy Eligibility Requirements
Understanding the eligibility requirements for bankruptcy is critical before you file. To qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you must pass the means test, which assesses your income compared to the median income in Ohio. If your income is below this threshold, you typically qualify. Additionally, you must have limited disposable income after paying reasonable living expenses.
For Chapter 13 bankruptcy, eligibility is based on your regular income and the total amount of unsecured and secured debts, which must fall within specific limits set by the bankruptcy code. Both types of bankruptcy require you to complete credit counseling from an approved agency before filing. Attorney Michael D. Doyle can help evaluate your financial situation to determine which bankruptcy option is right for you and ensure you meet all necessary requirements.
North Ridgeville Bankruptcy Attorney
Contact us today to schedule your free initial consultation. During your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to discuss your financial situation confidentially with Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Lawyer Michael D. Doyle. He will personally meet with you to explain your options and how the Bankruptcy Code can provide individuals who can no longer pay their bills with a fresh start while allowing them to keep much of their property.
With many years of experience in personal bankruptcy, Attorney Michael D. Doyle will support you through every step of the process, from preparing and filing your bankruptcy petition to meeting with creditors and achieving discharge. Should your case require a hearing, he will represent you directly. You won’t be passed off to another attorney who isn’t familiar with your situation.
We also offer flexible payment plans, so you don’t need to pay everything upfront; you can start your retainer with a minimum payment of $100.00.
Reach out to our office near North Ridgeville to book your free initial consultation with Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Lawyer Michael D. Doyle, and take the first step toward a debt-free life.