Services
Four ways we help people get out of debt
Every case starts with two questions: what do you owe, and what do you want to keep? The answers point to one of these paths.
01
Chapter 7 bankruptcy
Chapter 7 erases most unsecured debt. A court-appointed trustee reviews what you own, and Ohio's exemptions protect most of what ordinary households have: a car, household goods, retirement accounts, and equity in a home up to a limit.
More about Chapter 7A good fit if
Your income is under the Ohio median for your household size, or you pass the means test
Most of what you owe is credit cards, medical bills, or personal loans
You aren't behind on a house you want to keep
02
Chapter 13 bankruptcy
Chapter 13 sets up a court-supervised payment plan that lasts three to five years. You make one monthly payment to the trustee, who pays your creditors. When the plan ends, qualifying unsecured debt that's left is discharged.
More about Chapter 13A good fit if
You're behind on a mortgage or car loan and want to keep it
Your income is too high for Chapter 7
You owe recent taxes you need time to pay
03
Foreclosure relief
If your lender has filed a foreclosure in Stark County or anywhere in Northeast Ohio, filing bankruptcy stops the case and any scheduled sheriff's sale. In Chapter 13 you repay the missed payments over the life of the plan while keeping up with your regular mortgage payment.
How we stop a foreclosureA good fit if
You've received a foreclosure complaint or a sale date
You have steady income going forward
You want to stay in the home
04
Debt relief
Sometimes bankruptcy is the wrong tool. If your only income is Social Security or a pension that creditors can't garnish, filing may not be worth it, and we'll tell you so. We also deal with the problems that bring people to us: garnishments, repossessed cars, and collection lawsuits.
Lawsuits and garnishmentsA good fit if
A creditor or debt buyer has sued you
Your wages are being garnished
You're not sure bankruptcy is right for you
Getting started
Before you call
How much will it cost?
You'll know before you decide anything. We can give you an estimate over the phone and an exact fee once we've looked at your situation. In Chapter 13, much of the fee can often be paid through the plan.
Do I have to file bankruptcy?
No. If bankruptcy won't help you, we'll say so at the first meeting and talk through other options.
How quickly can you help?
Call as soon as court papers, a garnishment notice or a sale date arrive. Some protections depend on filing before a deadline.
What should I bring to the consultation?
Recent bills and collection letters, your two most recent pay stubs, your latest tax return and any court papers. See what else to expect on the free consultation page.
Not sure which one fits?
That's what the free consultation is for. We'll look at your numbers and give you a straight answer.