Detroit Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Attorneys
Struggling with Debt? Discover Your Path to Financial Freedom.
Bankruptcy is not only for people with little or no income. If your current debt outweighs your ability to pay, you can seek relief through Chapter 13 bankruptcy. This option allows individuals who are not qualified for Chapter 7 an opportunity to get their debts under control. It is not as sweeping as Chapter 7, but Chapter 13 bankruptcy has advantages and benefits such as being able to catch up on delinquent mortgage payments over a period of up to 60 months.
A Detroit Chapter 13 bankruptcy lawyer from the Law Offices of Marshall D. Schultz can advise you of your options and help you with the petition to file. Our firm is dedicated to representing clients who are determined to get out of debt, and with a track record that includes more than 10,000 consumer bankruptcies, we know how to get results.
Looking to file for bankruptcy in Michigan? Contact our Chapter 13 bankruptcy lawyer online or call (888) 822-6730. Your initial consultation is FREE of charge.
Understanding Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
Chapter 13, which is commonly referred to as "a wage-earner plan," is a way of restructuring a full or partial repayment of your debts according to your ability to repay. Your Chapter 13 Bankruptcy attorney in Detroit will evaluate your financial needs to find an amount which you can reasonably afford to pay, while still maintaining your rent or mortgage, groceries, utilities, clothing, car payment and maintenance, recreation, insurance, etc.
After deducting all of these normal expenses from your overall income, the amount remaining, which is more commonly referred to as the net disposable income, is committed to a monthly payment plan. Whether or not you end up repaying all of your debt, you will be released from further obligation at the end of your payment period.
Is Filing for Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Right for You?
In most cases filing for chapter 13 is worth it as there are many advantages. There are disadvantages as well, but will feel a burden let off your back with the elimination of harassing creditors. To see if this option is right for you, contact a local bankruptcy attorney for Chapter 13 to weigh all your options.
Key Benefits of Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
Many people who consider filing for bankruptcy worry about the impact it will have on their credit score. However, Chapter 13 bankruptcy can actually help you rebuild your credit over time. Here are some benefits of using Chapter 13 to improve your credit:
- Consolidate debts: By consolidating your debts into one manageable payment plan, you can reduce the number of accounts in collection and avoid missed payments that lower your credit score.
- Timely payments: Chapter 13 bankruptcy requires you to make timely payments on your repayment plan, which can show creditors that you are responsible with your finances.
- Debt reduction: Chapter 13 bankruptcy allows you to discharge certain debts, which can improve your credit utilization ratio and overall creditworthiness.
- Improved financial habits: Going through the bankruptcy process can teach you financial discipline and help you develop better spending habits, which can positively impact your credit score in the long run.
If you're considering Chapter 13 bankruptcy, our Southfield bankruptcy attorneys can help you understand your options and develop a plan to rebuild your credit. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Comparing Bankruptcy Chapter 7 and Chapter 13
Chapter 13 bankruptcy will require you to make continued payments on your debts, unlike Chapter 7 which leads to a rapid discharge of debts, but it is potentially more effective for the debtor. A Chapter 7 bankruptcy will not affect a mortgage or car loan, but under Chapter 13 the individual is often given the chance to restructure a delinquent car loan and to catch up on mortgage payments that are past due.
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Contact our Detroit Chapter 13 bankruptcy lawyer via online form or dial (888) 822-6730 for a free initial consultation.
What Our Past Clients Think
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How Chapter 13 Restructures Car Loans
Your auto loan will be treated in one of two ways depending upon the age of the loan. If the loan is 2.5 years or less, you can reduce the interest to 5.25% and stretch the payments over the life of the repayment plan. If your loan is older than 2.5 years, the loan can be reduced to the actual value of the car and you can pay that amount through the plan. For instance, if your loan balance is $20,000, but your car is worth $15,000, you would only need to pay the $15,000 (the value of the vehicle).
Filing Can Eliminate Second Mortgages
If your first mortgage is upside-down and you have a second mortgage, Chapter 13 may allow you to eliminate the second mortgage through "lien stripping". If the house is worth less than your first mortgage, the court could convert your second mortgage into unsecured debt. While you may have to pay some of your second mortgages through the plan, it will be treated the same as other unsecured debt such as a credit card.
Back Taxes and the Chapter 13 Repayment Plan
Another advantage to Chapter 13 is that if you have back taxes, this option allows you to pay them off over 3 to 5 years rather than paying them all off at once. For example, with a first mortgage, your plan will likely include your normal monthly payment along with the amount needed each month to pay off your past-due balance.
Call (888) 822-6730to set up a free consultation with a Chapter 13 bankruptcy attorneys in Detroit at Law Offices of Marshall D. Schultz. We're backed by 50+ years of experience combined.
What Are The Requirements For Chapter 13?
There are several requirements for filing Chapter 13 bankruptcy. First, it is important to know that businesses cannot ever file for Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Stockbrokers and commodity brokers are also ineligible, even for personal debts.
Individuals with demonstratable means to repay their debts can file, as long as their unsecured debts fall under a maximum. This maximum changes periodically, so you should consult with an attorney if you have concerns about your unsecured debts before filing for Chapter 13.
Additionally, if you have filed a previous bankruptcy, you may need to wait a period of time before filing again. You need to wait two years after filing for Chapter 13 and four years after filing for Chapter 7 before a second bankruptcy filing with Chapter 13.
How are Chapters 7 and 13 Different?
Chapter 13 is more complex than a Chapter 7. While Chapter 7 is reserved for individuals with a low income, Chapter 13 is known as the "wage earners" bankruptcy. With a Chapter 13, the debtor pays off a portion or all of their debts over 3 to 5 years, whereas with a Chapter 7, qualifying unsecured debts are "wiped out." This means that certain non-dischargeable debts, like alimony and child support, can be paid off over the 3 to 5-year payment plan period.
In addition, different debts can be discharged in Chapter 13 vs Chapter 7 after the completion of the payment plan. These debts are variable according to state law, so it is best to consult with an attorney on your potential dischargeable debts with Chapter 13.
Have questions? Reach out to Chapter 13 lawyers in Detroit with decades of shared experience.
Call (888) 822-6730 for a free initial consultation.
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50+ Years of Combined Bankruptcy Law ExperienceOur attorneys are experienced and knowledgeable in the field of bankruptcy law. Trust a seasoned bankruptcy attorney to handle your case.
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Assisted 12,000+ Consumers with Their DebtDebt affects everyone, rich or poor. We have helped thousands of clients through difficult financial times and we plan on helping thousands more.
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Free Initial ConsultationsThere's no need to pay for a simple conversation! We provide immediate, 100% complimentary consultations to those who are interested in filing with us.
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Convenient Office Locations in Southfield & DetroitWe have locations in both Southfield and Detroit for those who want to minimize their commute to visit their nearest office.
Is Chapter 13 the Same as Debt Consolidation?
The primary difference between debt consolidation and Chapter 13 is that in a Chapter 13, creditors are required by the court to follow the terms laid out in the debt settlement agreement and repayment plan. In standard debt consolidation, a creditor has no obligation to agree to the terms being proposed. Debt consolidation agreements can and will also include continually accruing interest, whereas no further interest will accrue during a Chapter 13 repayment plan.
Will I Lose My Assets and Property When I File?
Chapter 13 is the most feasible bankruptcy option for any individual wanting to retain possession of his or her assets and property. In Chapter 13 you do not discharge all of your qualifying debt; you simply restructure it so that it can be paid over a 3- to 5-year period. You will have a far greater chance of retaining your assets, avoiding foreclosure and maintaining your current lifestyle if you file for Chapter 13 rather than Chapter 7.
What Does an Automatic Stay Do in Chapter 13?
Once you file for bankruptcy, the "automatic stay" immediately goes into effect. The automatic stay stops all collection activity dead in its tracks. This means that creditors aren't allowed to call you, send you letters, continue a foreclosure action, or file any lawsuits.
What Happens After Chapter 13 Is Paid Off?
The Chapter 13 Trustee will conduct a thorough case completion audit by reviewing the payment history and whether any additional plan terms have been complied with (for example, the payment to the plan of of yearly bonuses or tax refunds). After the Trustee audit is complete the case will be forwarded to the Court for Discharge.
Once the Court enters a “Discharge Order”, you are no longer legally obligated to pay the listed Creditors with certain exceptions.
Call Our Chapter 13 Lawyers in Detroit at (888) 822-6730
Our Chapter 13 bankruptcy attorneys will teach you what you need to know and do everything we can to help you take full advantage of your rights so that you can begin life after bankruptcy in a position of financial stability. Do not hesitate to reach out and begin your journey to a fresh start today!
Contact the Law Offices of Marshall D. Schultz at so that we can work with you toward a brighter future! We have offices in both Southfield and Detroit.
