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Maricopa County Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Lawyer

Talk to a Maricopa County bankruptcy attorney at Hilltop Law firm to find out more about chapter 13 bankruptcy. Call (602) 466-9631 today.

Lawyer Explains the Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Process in Maricopa County

Maricopa County has many fun things to do, like strolling around Desert Botanical Garden, checking out a Cardinals game at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, or visiting OdySea Aquarium in Scottsdale. But when financial concerns loom over you, rarely will these attractions be deemed enjoyable.

That's why many people in Maricopa County have found that filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy is the right solution for overwhelming debt. If you've been struggling to pay your bills, contact Cy Hainey at Hilltop Law Firm.

Cy is a bankruptcy attorney who's been helping people in Maricopa County for over 10 years. We'll sit down together and find the right plan for you. We will also be happy to meet with you in our office or via a FREE Zoom conference using your cell phone, tablet, or computer.

Call (602) 466-9631 to speak with our Maricopa County bankruptcy lawyer and learn more today.

What's the Difference Between Chapter 13 and Chapter 7 Bankruptcy?

Chapter 13 bankruptcy, often called a wage earner's plan, allows people with a steady income to reorganize their debt. Chapter 13 focuses on creating a repayment plan that takes three to five years to complete. Your bankruptcy lawyer will help you decide whether Chapter 13 or Chapter 7 bankruptcy is the best option for you.

There are important differences between Chapter 13 and Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Unlike Chapter 13 bankruptcy, Chapter 7 doesn't require repayment, which allows you to discharge certain types of debts altogether. Under Chapter 7 bankruptcy, the debtor will be required to liquidate a portion of their assets to repay creditors. The Chapter 7 bankruptcy process is typically quicker than Chapter 13, often concluding within a few months.

How Does Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Work In Maricopa County?

The Chapter 13 bankruptcy process involves several key steps. First, you need to gather all your financial information, including debts, income, and expenses. This will help you and your attorney create a repayment plan. Next, you'll file a bankruptcy petition with the court.

As soon as your application is filed, an automatic stay goes into effect, halting all collection actions, including phone calls, letters, lawsuits, wage garnishments, and foreclosure proceedings. A stay also halts the accrual of additional interest on your outstanding debts. This provides substantial relief, preventing your debt from growing out of control while you work on repaying it.

The court will appoint a trustee to oversee your case. You'll attend a meeting of creditors, where the trustee and creditors can ask questions about your finances and plan. After this, the court will hold a confirmation hearing to approve your repayment plan. Once your plan is confirmed, you'll start making regular payments to the trustee.

Saving Your Maricopa County Home from Foreclosure

Chapter 13 bankruptcy is a powerful tool for homeowners facing foreclosure. By restructuring your mortgage arrears into the Chapter 13 plan, you can spread out past-due payments over three to five years. This restructuring can make your mortgage more affordable and sustainable, helping you to keep up with payments and avoid foreclosure. If you have a second mortgage, Chapter 13 may allow you to eliminate it.

What Types of Debt Are Dischargeable?

Chapter 13 bankruptcy is designed to help you catch up on past due balances for secured debts, such as your mortgage or car loan. The repayment plan is tailored to your income, ensuring that monthly payments are manageable and aligned with your financial capabilities. This structured approach provides a clear timeline for achieving financial stability. By catching up on past-due balances, you can protect your home and other valuable assets.

Chapter 13 bankruptcy allows for the discharge of certain unsecured debts, providing substantial debt. Dischargeable debts can be eliminated or significantly reduced through your repayment plan. Common examples include:

  • Credit card bills
  • Medical bills
  • Utility bills
  • Personal loans
  • Payday loans
  • Some types of tax debt

While Chapter 13 bankruptcy provides relief for many types of debt, some obligations are non-dischargeable and must be repaid in full. Examples of Non-dischargeable debts include:

  • Child support
  • Alimony
  • Student loans
  • Many types of tax debts
  • Fines or penalties owed to government agencies
  • Debts from personal injury claims resulting from DUI incidents

Speak With a Dedicated Maricopa County Bankruptcy Attorney Today

When it comes to your financial health, it's time for a fresh start. We know how to negotiate with creditors to secure the best possible terms so you can move forward with your life. Cy Hainey will represent you in court and stand with you throughout the bankruptcy process.

Contact Hilltop Law Firm to schedule your FREE consultation today at (602) 466-9631. Our Chapter 13 bankruptcy lawyer in Maricopa County is attentive and ready to help.

“Settled my debt quickly and for less than I could have imagined! I would definitely recommend”
- Chelsea