Bankruptcy Lawyer in Woodhaven, NY

Stop Creditors and Eliminate Debt Fast

Get immediate protection from collections while keeping your home and rebuilding your financial future.

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Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 Attorney

Your Fresh Start Begins Here

You’re not just filing paperwork – you’re reclaiming control of your life. When creditors stop calling, wage garnishments end, and foreclosure threats disappear, you can finally breathe again.

Chapter 7 bankruptcy eliminates most unsecured debts in just a few months. Credit cards, medical bills, and personal loans vanish completely. Chapter 13 lets you keep your home while reorganizing payments you can actually afford.

The automatic stay kicks in the moment we file, stopping all collection activities immediately. No more hiding from the phone or dreading the mail. You’ll have legal protection while we work toward your debt-free future.

Experienced Woodhaven Bankruptcy Law Firm

We Know Queens Financial Challenges

The Frank Law Firm P.C. has helped countless Woodhaven families navigate financial crises and emerge debt-free. We understand the unique pressures facing Queens residents – from high property taxes to stagnant wages.

Every case receives personal attention because your situation isn’t just another file number. We have built relationships with local bankruptcy trustees and know exactly how Queens courts operate.

You’re working with attorneys who’ve seen every type of debt problem and know which solutions actually work for working families in this community.

How to File for Bankruptcy

Simple Process, Powerful Protection

Your free consultation covers everything – income, debts, assets, and goals. We’ll determine whether Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 gives you the best outcome and explain exactly what to expect.

Once you decide to move forward, we gather your financial documents and prepare your petition. The moment we file with the bankruptcy court, the automatic stay protects you from all creditor actions.

You’ll attend one meeting with the bankruptcy trustee, usually lasting just a few minutes. We handle all court filings and communications with creditors. Most Chapter 7 cases complete in 3-4 months, while Chapter 13 plans typically run 3-5 years with manageable monthly payments.

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Comprehensive Debt Relief Services

Complete Bankruptcy and Foreclosure Defense

Your bankruptcy case includes full preparation of all required documents, representation at the 341 meeting of creditors, and ongoing communication with trustees and creditors. We also provide foreclosure defense to protect your home while exploring all available options.

Many Woodhaven clients face specific challenges like high mortgage payments relative to income or multiple properties. We structure Chapter 13 plans that account for Queens’ unique real estate market and cost of living factors.

Pre-filing credit counseling and post-filing financial management courses are included in your representation. You’ll also receive guidance on rebuilding credit after discharge and protecting your fresh start from future financial problems.

How quickly can bankruptcy stop creditor calls and wage garnishments?

The automatic stay takes effect immediately when we file your bankruptcy petition with the court. This means creditor calls, wage garnishments, bank account freezes, and foreclosure proceedings must stop that same day. Creditors who continue collection efforts after receiving notice of your bankruptcy filing can face sanctions from the bankruptcy court. We notify your employer right away if wages are being garnished so they stop deducting money from your paycheck. Most clients experience relief within 24-48 hours of filing.

Can I keep my house if I file for bankruptcy in Woodhaven?

Yes, many clients keep their homes through bankruptcy. In Chapter 13, you can catch up on missed mortgage payments through a 3-5 year repayment plan while staying current on ongoing payments. Chapter 7 allows you to keep your home if you’re current on payments and the equity doesn’t exceed New York’s homestead exemption. Even if you’re behind on payments, we can often negotiate with lenders or use foreclosure defense strategies to protect your property. Each situation is different, which is why we analyze your specific circumstances during the free consultation.

What debts can be eliminated through Chapter 7 bankruptcy?

Chapter 7 eliminates most unsecured debts including credit cards, medical bills, personal loans, deficiency balances from repossessed vehicles, and old utility bills. Business debts from failed ventures and most court judgments also qualify for discharge. However, certain debts survive bankruptcy including recent taxes, student loans, child support, alimony, and debts incurred through fraud. Secured debts like mortgages and car loans continue, but you can choose to surrender the property and eliminate any remaining balance owed.

How much does it cost to file bankruptcy with your firm?

Attorney fees vary based on case complexity, but we offer transparent pricing and payment plans to make representation affordable. Chapter 7 cases typically cost less than Chapter 13 since they’re shorter and require fewer court filings. The bankruptcy court also charges filing fees – currently $338 for Chapter 7 and $313 for Chapter 13. We discuss all costs upfront during your free consultation and can often arrange payment plans that work with your budget. Many clients find that stopping just one wage garnishment pays for the entire bankruptcy case.

Will bankruptcy ruin my credit score permanently?

Bankruptcy appears on credit reports for 7-10 years, but most clients see credit score improvements within 12-24 months after discharge. This happens because you eliminate debt-to-income ratios that were dragging down your score. Many clients qualify for secured credit cards immediately after discharge and car loans within a year. Mortgage qualification typically takes 2-4 years depending on the loan program. The key is following post-bankruptcy credit rebuilding strategies we provide to establish positive payment history and keep balances low.

Do I qualify for Chapter 7 or do I have to file Chapter 13?

Qualification depends on the means test, which compares your income to New York’s median income levels and calculates disposable income after allowed expenses. If your income is below the median or you have little disposable income after necessary expenses, you likely qualify for Chapter 7. Higher-income filers may need Chapter 13, but this isn’t necessarily bad since it allows you to keep non-exempt assets and catch up on house payments. We run these calculations during your consultation to determine which chapter gives you the best outcome for your specific situation.

Local Resources

Woodhaven, NY is located in Queens County in New York State