Savannah Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Attorneys

Our Chapter 13 Lawyers in Savannah Can Help Protect Your Assets

If you are unable to keep up with your current debts, have valuable assets you wish to keep, or do not qualify for a Chapter 7 filing, Chapter 13 bankruptcy may be right for you. Chapter 13 is a reorganization bankruptcy that allows you to repay some or all of your debts over a period of time. You will be required to make monthly payments to a bankruptcy trustee until the plan is completed.

At Barbara B. Braziel Attorney at Law, we have over 40 years of experience in helping Georgians successfully file for Chapter 13. Whether you are an individual, a small business, or a farmer, we can help you understand your rights and options. We are committed to providing the highest level of representation to our clients. We understand that filing for bankruptcy can be a very stressful time for you and your family, and we are here to help you every step of the way.

Request a free case evaluation with a Savannah Chapter 13 bankruptcy lawyer today. You can reach a team member at (833) 522-1069 or through our contact page.

Understanding the Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Process in Georgia

Chapter 13 bankruptcy in Georgia is a court-supervised debt repayment plan that allows you to reorganize your finances, repay a portion of your debts over a period of three to five years, and potentially save your home from foreclosure or vehicle from repossession. 

It allows you to save your home and/or vehicle by allowing you to catch up on mortgage or vehicle loan arrearages through the repayment plan, while also stopping any ongoing foreclosure or possession proceedings as soon as the bankruptcy petition is filed. This is due to the automatic stay provision in bankruptcy law that prohibits your creditors from making any further collection attempts while you are under the protection of the court. 

Chapter 13 bankruptcy is often referred to as a "wage earner's bankruptcy" because it is designed to help those who have a regular income source. To qualify, you must have steady earnings, such as from a job, self-employment, a business, retirement income, or Social Security. Your earnings must give you enough disposable income to make your monthly affordable payment to the court which will disburse the funds to your creditors over the life of your repayment plan. 

Pros & Cons of Filing for Chapter 13

There are advantages and disadvantages to every form of debt relief, including Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Understanding these can help you make better decisions about your next steps. While every situation is different, the following are the general pros and cons associated with Chapter 13 bankruptcy.

Chapter 13 provides the following benefits:

• Stops wage garnishments, stops lawsuits filed by creditors, stops harassing creditor phone calls, and stops automobile repossession.
• Can stop foreclosure and allow a homeowner to catch up on mortgage arrears.
• In some cases, allows a homeowner to “lien strip” or eliminate a second mortgage.
• Creates an opportunity to catch up on missed car payments.
• Creates an opportunity to catch up on other missed payments, such as back taxes or child support payments.
• After the bankruptcy, any remaining credit card debt, medical bills, other unsecured debts, and some tax debts, are discharged.

Drawbacks of Chapter 13:

• Requires monthly payments to the bankruptcy trustee. We understand that unforeseeable things happen. If a plan payment cannot be made, processes are available to address it.
• You cannot take out a loan while in Chapter 13 bankruptcy without prior permission from the bankruptcy court.
• Student loan debts are not generally discharged.
• You may still owe some debts after bankruptcy, such as tax debts, depending on your specific circumstances.

As seasoned Chapter 13 lawyers in Savannah, our team is committed to helping you make the decision that is truly in your best interests, taking into account every advantage and disadvantage typically related to Chapter 13 bankruptcy filings. You can count on our transparency throughout the process.

Who Is Eligible for Chapter 13?

As mentioned above Chapter 13 requires you to have enough disposable income to repay your debts over the course of the repayment plan approved by the bankruptcy court. 

Other eligibility requirements:

• Your secured and unsecured debt cannot exceed a certain amount as of your filing date. Debt limits are subject to change so it’s essential to work with an attorney. 
• You are required to complete a credit counseling course from an approved agency within 180 days before filing for bankruptcy. You will need to submit a certificate of completion when filing your bankruptcy petition.
• If you had a previous bankruptcy case dismissed within the last 180 days due to your failure to appear in court or comply with court orders, you would not be eligible to file Chapter 13.
• You need to be up-to-date on your federal and state tax filings. Before filing for Chapter 13, you must provide proof that you have filed tax returns.

Debt Management & Repayment Plans

Chapter 13 bankruptcy offers individuals the opportunity to create a manageable debt repayment plan while still protecting their assets. Our experienced Savannah Chapter 13 bankruptcy attorneys can help you negotiate with creditors, create a repayment plan that fits your budget, and guide you through the process of restructuring your debts, protecting your rights along the way.

Benefits of Chapter 13 bankruptcy and debt management plans include:

• Protection of assets such as your home or car
• Ability to catch up on missed mortgage or car payments
• Stop foreclosure or repossession proceedings
• Consolidation of debts into one affordable monthly payment
• Opportunity to improve your credit score over time

Don't let overwhelming debt control your life. Involve our Chapter 13 bankruptcy lawyers in Savannah and explore your options for debt relief and financial stability. Even if Chapter 13 is not the right option for you, we can advise you on alternatives so you can make informed decisions.

How Our Chapter 13 Lawyers in Savannah, GA Can Assist You

If you're drowning in debt and considering Chapter 13 bankruptcy, a knowledgeable attorney can be your lifeline. This can make all the difference during challenging, uncertain times.

A knowledgeable Chapter 13 bankruptcy lawyer can help by:

• Evaluating your finances, ensuring Chapter 13 is a viable option for you.
• Creating a custom plan for you to repay debts, focusing on essentials and unsecured debts.
• Handling complex bankruptcy paperwork, and adhering to timelines and court requirements.
• Negotiating with creditors to improve terms and potentially reduce debts.
• Representing you in court proceedings, safeguarding your rights.
• Enforcing the automatic stay, shielding you from creditor harassment.
• Providing ongoing support throughout the repayment period.

A Chapter 13 bankruptcy lawyer is your guide through the process, from initial assessment to post-bankruptcy stability. Their experience ensures a smoother journey to financial recovery.

Contact Our Savannah Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Attorneys Today

Chapter 13 bankruptcy can be a great option for individuals and couples who are unable to pay back all their debt. This form of bankruptcy allows you to pay back your debts over a period of time in a manageable manner. At Barbara B. Braziel, we have over 40 years of experience in helping our clients successfully file for Chapter 13 bankruptcy. We understand how stressful this process can be, and we are here to help give you the professional assistance needed to ease the burden. 

To learn how Chapter 13 may benefit you, call (833) 522-1069 or contact us online.