Filing for Bankruptcy in Knoxville

Certified Bankruptcy Attorneys Serving East Tennessee

Many debtors are facing the overwhelming burden of debts that they never have enough money to pay off. Unpaid debts can lead to several consequences, such as home foreclosure, repossession, wage garnishment, creditor harassment, civil lawsuits, and more. One solution for individuals who cannot repay their debts and are in danger of suffering from any of these repercussions is filing for bankruptcy.

While there are several chapters under the Bankruptcy Code, the two most common types of bankruptcy are Chapters 7 and 13. At The Law Offices Of Mayer & Newton, our certified bankruptcy lawyers in Knoxville have filed over 50,000 cases in the Eastern District of Tennessee. We have the knowledge and experience to help you make an informed decision about whether bankruptcy is right for you and which chapter you should file for.

Understand, bankruptcy is not right for everyone, which is why it is crucial that you speak with our experienced legal team before filing for bankruptcy. In addition, the filing process is complex, and it is important to make sure that things are handled correctly. Many people are denied on their bankruptcy applications because they did not have a skilled legal advocate guiding them. Don't let this happen to you.

Call (865) 328-7993 now for a free consultation. Our experienced, well-trained staff of paralegals is ready to assist you and can make an appointment that’s convenient for you.

Chapter 7 vs. Chapter 13 Bankruptcy

It is important to understand the difference between two of the most common forms of bankruptcy, Chapter 7 and Chapter 13. Let’s begin with Chapter 7. This type of bankruptcy is often referred to as “straight bankruptcy” or “liquidation.” It primarily involves discharging or eliminating, your unsecured debts.

The benefits of Chapter 7 bankruptcy include:

• It provides the ability to wipe out unsecured debt, including credit card bills, utility bills, advances on paychecks, and personal signature loans
• It allows individuals to obtain debt relief relatively quickly, sometimes in as little as three months
• It allows the debtor to keep assets that qualify as “exempt”
• It does not involve monthly payments made to a trustee

Chapter 13, on the other hand, involves restructuring one’s debts. Filers can consolidate their debt into a single monthly payment over a three to five-year period. After successfully completing the repayment plan, all remaining debts will be discharged.

Some of the advantages of filing for Chapter 13 include:

• Repay your debts over a longer period
• Be required to pay less than owed
• Keep your assets as you repay your debts
• Stop creditor harassment
• Delay or avoid home foreclosure
• Prevent repossession of your property