Phoenix, Arizona Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Lawyers

Filing bankruptcy may be the solution for you. If you find yourself overwhelmed, stressed, or simply unable to breathe because of your debts, Lerner and Rowe Law Group’s Phoenix Chapter 7 bankruptcy lawyers can help you find the relief you are looking for.

Let our experienced Phoenix bankruptcy attorneys guide you through the proceedings and give you prudent counsel to and find out if Chapter 7 is right for you. We are here to answer your questions and lessen the stress of this potentially confusing process. Depending on your individual circumstances, you may even benefit from filing a $0 down Chapter 7 bankruptcy.

What Is Chapter 7 Bankruptcy?

A Chapter 7 bankruptcy, often referred to as a liquidating bankruptcy, is a legal proceeding that allows an individual to discharge unsecured debts and receive a fresh start. The fresh start is achieved by virtue of a discharge that basically means the individual has no further personal liability to repay their unsecured debts. Most unsecured debts are discharged in bankruptcy, but not all; non-dischargeable debts will be discussed below.

The discharge is a strong financial tool available to individuals, but as with all things good, some individuals may lose property during the bankruptcy proceeding; this is referred to as the liquidation process. The property that you get to keep versus the property that you lose depends on the exemptions that are available to you and the best business judgment of a bankruptcy trustee. Most, but not all, Arizonans may claim their exemptions according to Arizona law; however, some Arizonans may be required to use either federal bankruptcy exemptions or another state’s exemption laws. If you are one of those thousands of people burdened by your debts, do not hesitate to call our dedicated Phoenix, Arizona bankruptcy attorneys to schedule your free bankruptcy consultation.

Debts That Cannot Be Discharged in a Phoenix Chapter 7

While the majority of debt can be discharged in a Phoenix Chapter 7 bankruptcy, there are several debts that cannot be forgiven. These are classified as non-dischargeable debts and include:

• Student loans
• Income taxes (federal, state, and local), except in rare cases
• Alimony
• Child Support
• Secured liens
• Government loans, fines, and fees
• Restitution for criminal activity
• Fraud-related debt
• Damages caused by the debtor’s DUI

Arizona Chapter 7 Exemptions

The state of Arizona has several bankruptcy exemptions for debtors. Certain property, such as a home or automobile, is protected from creditors, but only up to a certain dollar amount. In some cases, the value is doubled if a couple files jointly. The Arizona bankruptcy exemptions include:

• Homestead: One  primary residence (house, condo, or mobile home) with up to $150,000 in equity 
• Vehicle: One motor vehicle with equity up to $6,000 (or $12,000 if the debtor is disabled) in equity
• Personal Property: Household furnishings valued up to $6,000 for an individual (and $12,000 for a couple)
• Pension or Retirement Funds

There are many more Arizona bankruptcy exemptions. They include property of small monetary value, but high personal or spiritual value, like bibles and other religious texts, sewing machines, bicycles, pets, firearms, tools of the trade, and more. At Lerner and Rowe Law Group, our Arizona chapter 7 bankruptcy lawyers can help you sort through the exemptions you’re eligible for, so that you can keep as much of your property as possible. 

Contact a Phoenix, Arizona Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Lawyer

Filing for bankruptcy can be a confusing and nerve-wracking ordeal. The Phoenix bankruptcy attorneys at Lerner and Rowe Law Group are ready to make the process as simple and stress-free as possible. Our Phoenix chapter 7 bankruptcy lawyers have extensive knowledge of Arizona bankruptcy laws, exemptions, and procedures. Furthermore, our bankruptcy team will diligently serve you, so that you can receive debt relief and work towards rebuilding your financial independence.

You can stop by the offices of Lerner and Rowe Law Group Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. For your convenience, we’re also available 24/7 by phone at 602-667-7777 or online through our LiveChat and form features. Don’t let excessive debt overwhelm you. Contact our Phoenix bankruptcy lawyers today for your free consultation!