New York Bankruptcy Lawyers
If you no longer have the ability to pay your debts, you should speak with an attorney about bankruptcy or bankruptcy alternatives. You should never feel ashamed to seek help – bankruptcy laws exist to give every American a second chance and a fresh start. At the law firm of O'Connor First, we provide experienced and compassionate legal services on behalf of consumers and businesses facing difficult financial challenges.
We are dedicated to helping clients find lasting solutions to difficult life challenges. In our bankruptcy and debt relief practice, we can assist you with overcoming your unmanageable debt.
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Our Bankruptcy And Debt Relief Services
Our New York bankruptcy attorneys provide a wide range of bankruptcy and debt relief options to help clients in the Albany region. We can guide you through challenges involving:
- Chapter 7 bankruptcy
- Chapter 13 bankruptcy and debt reorganization
- Debt relief and bankruptcy alternatives
- Home foreclosure avoidance
- Credit card debt
- Medical bills and debt
- Creditor harassment (such as harassing phone calls)
- Repossession of cars and trucks
Our Board-Certified Attorney Can Help You Eliminate Debt
Our bankruptcy and debt relief practice is headed by attorney Michael J. O’Connor. Mr. O’Connor has offered bankruptcy and debt relief services for more than 35 years. He is also board-certified in consumer and commercial bankruptcy by the American Board of Certification.
Mr. O’Connor has helped thousands of clients overcome the burdens of insurmountable debt. Anybody can fall behind in their payments – something as common as a job loss or medical emergency can leave you helplessly behind in paying your bills. We believe that everybody deserves a fresh start, which is why we encourage you to schedule a free consultation to discuss your debt relief options with Mr. O’Connor today.
How An Experienced Attorney Can Help You Navigate Bankruptcy
An experienced bankruptcy attorney is crucial in guiding you through the complex bankruptcy process. They can assess your financial situation and determine the most suitable bankruptcy option, whether Chapter 7 or Chapter 13. As your bankruptcy lawyer, we can help accurately complete any paperwork and submit it on time, to minimize chances of getting your application denied. We will also represent you in any court sessions or creditor negotiations to further defend your best interests. Our guidance can also help you understand all of the details of bankruptcy, including your rights and obligations, to provide you with peace of mind throughout the process. Our goal as your bankruptcy attorney is to help you earn the financial outcome you deserve.
What Are The Benefits Of Filing For Bankruptcy?
Filing for bankruptcy offers several significant benefits that can provide relief and a path to financial recovery. There are several benefits to filing for bankruptcy, including the automatic stay, which stops most collection efforts like phone calls, lawsuits and wage garnishments. An automatic stay can help alleviate the pressure of debt and creditors while you seek to discharge your unsecured debts, including credit card balances and medical bills. Bankruptcy can also stop foreclosures and repossessions, letting you keep vital assets.
What Is The Process To File For Bankruptcy?
Filing for bankruptcy is a structured legal journey that begins with a thorough review of your financial standing. While the core process follows federal law, local jurisdictions in Albany and Burlington may have specific filing requirements or different bankruptcy trustees. The general process includes:
- Pre-filing credit counseling: You must complete a briefing from an approved agency within six months before filing.
- Gathering documentation: This involves collecting tax returns, pay stubs, and a full list of your assets and debts.
- Filing the petition: We submit your formal petition to the court, which triggers an “automatic stay” to halt creditor actions.
- The meeting of creditors: You will attend a 341 meeting where a trustee asks questions about your financial affairs.
- Financial management course: Before receiving a discharge, you must complete a second education course.
Our firm handles filings in both states and understands these jurisdictional differences. We manage all documentation, court filings and creditor communications on your behalf. This approach saves you time and reduces the risk of errors that could delay or jeopardize your case.
What Are The Different Forms Of Bankruptcy?
Choosing the right path depends on your income, assets and long-term goals. We focus on identifying the solution that offers you the most effective fresh start. That may include:
- Chapter 7 bankruptcy, often called liquidation bankruptcy, discharges most unsecured debts within months. This option suits individuals with limited income who cannot maintain a repayment plan. A court-appointed trustee may liquidate non-exempt assets to pay creditors, though many filers keep most or all of their property through available exemptions.
- Chapter 13 bankruptcy involves creating a repayment plan lasting three to five years. This option benefits individuals with regular income who want to keep valuable assets like homes or vehicles while catching up on missed payments. It is particularly useful for stopping foreclosures and spreading out debt payments over time.
Navigating these laws alone can lead to errors that risk your assets or result in a dismissed case. Our firm evaluates your income, assets, debts and financial goals to recommend the most appropriate bankruptcy option. We prepare all necessary documentation and represent you throughout, from initial filing through final discharge.
Contact Michael J. O’Connor
If you need to speak with attorney Michael J. O’Connor, or if you have questions about how to choose a bankruptcy lawyer, contact us online or call our Albany and Burlington offices at 877-886-4029.
We are a federally designated debt relief agency proudly helping people file debt reorganization plans and bankruptcy for over 35 years.