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Chapter 7 Attorney

Struggling with debt can make life feel overwhelming. But there is hope. 

Chapter 7 bankruptcy provides a path for individual debtors and businesses to find relief from their debt. 

Cherry Hill and Middlesex County, NJ, debtors trust bankruptcy attorney Adam C. Brown Esq. to handle the Chapter 7 process. 

What Exactly Is
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy?

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Chapter 7 is the quickest bankruptcy option. The entire process takes about six months. Chapter 7 can be utilized by individuals, partnerships, and corporations. It achieves debt relief by selling unnecessary possessions and consolidating available assets, then using them to pay off unsecured debts owed to creditors. 

When you file for Chapter 7, the court implements an automatic stay that protects you as a debtor. This automatic stay temporarily halts foreclosure proceedings, can stave off eviction, stop utilities from being disconnected, and prevent the garnishment of your wages. A trustee is put in charge of administering your assets to creditors. Once you have completed the entire Chapter 7 bankruptcy process, your dischargeable debts will be eliminated. 

Eliminating Unsecured Debt Avoids Financial Spiral

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Unsecured debts are not backed by collateral. This makes them riskier for creditors. In return, unsecured debts often have over twice the interest rate of a secured debt. Not addressing unsecured debts, instead of eliminating them with Chapter 7 bankruptcy, can only worsen financial concerns.

Using Chapter 7  Is Nothing to Be Ashamed Of

According to America's Debt Help Organization, from 2018 to 2022, over 1.8 million Chapter 7 bankruptcies were filed. This was nearly double the amount of the second most frequently used option of Chapter 13 bankruptcy. 

Mr. Brown Is Here For Middlesex County

Chapter 7 is limited to individuals who do not have the financial capability to pay back their creditors. He can help you calculate your current monthly income. If it is less than the New Jersey median for a household of your size, you qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. If not, you must prove that you do not have enough disposable income to pay off your creditors. This is done by completing a means test that involves highly specific and complex calculations.

Bankruptcy law can be very confusing. Mr. Brown is here to help clients throughout Middlesex County navigate the often complex process of proving you qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. We have two convenient locations in New Brunswick and Moorestown. Reach out for his help today and get started on the path toward a brighter, more secure future.

(973) 281-2388

Mr. Brown

Middlesex County Leaves 5-Star Reviews for Our Bankruptcy Lawyer

1

Jazmin Peralta

2023

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Adam was tremendous help. He ensured I understood what was going on, share my concerns and provided space to address concerns and explain best next steps. He was timely and communicated effectively. Truly thankful for all your help! Would definitely recommend.

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1

Fabio Fonseca

2023

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Mr. Brown was excellent, his experience, professionalism and patience was a key to getting through a tough situation. Kudos counsel!

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You Must Complete Credit Counseling

It is mandatory for all individual bankruptcy filers to complete pre-bankruptcy credit counseling. There are 48 different U.S. Trustee Program-approved credit counseling agencies in New Jersey. Mr. Brown can help you make sure the agency you choose will fulfill this all-important requirement. 

The Chapter 7 Process

Chapter 7 allows debtors to find freedom from stressful debt. 
Chapter 7 allows debtors to find freedom from stressful debt. 

Document Production

Attorney Brown will help you compile all necessary financial documents the court requires. This includes tax returns, paychecks, business documents, and bank statements. He then files your Chapter 7 bankruptcy. A lawyer is invaluable in this stage, since these documents must be verified by the trustee and because your case can be dismissed for missing paperwork. 

341(a) Meeting

Approximately three to six weeks from your filing date, you and Mr. Brown must attend a Meeting of Creditors, or 341(a) Meeting. Here, you must answer any questions the trustee may have about your finances.

Statement of Intention

Within the first month of filing, you must complete a statement of intention. This document outlines your plan to surrender or keep property securing your debts. Within 30 days of the Meeting of Creditors, you must have completed what you agreed to in your Statement of Intention.

Financial Management Training

On top of the aforementioned credit counseling course, Chapter 7 debtors must complete a financial management training course. This must be completed 60 days after the Meeting of Creditors. 

Discharge of Debts

At the end of the approximately six-month process, your applicable debts are discharged. You may also be able to enter a Reaffirmation Agreement that allows you to make payments on property you are at risk of losing. An attorney can sign your Reaffirmation Agreement, avoiding the need for a judge's approval. 

Some Debts Cannot Be Discharged
In a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy

female judge stands in front of a courtroom of people​ during bankruptcy proceedings

Unfortunately, not every type of debt can be eliminated with Chapter 7. Ineligible debts include:

  • Child support
  • Alimony payments
  • Student loans
  • Certain tax debt
  • Court fees
  • HOA Fees

In addition, aggressive creditors can petition the courts to make specific debts you owe not eligible to be discharged in your Chapter 7 plan. Many debtors are unable to fight against creditors on their own. Mr. Brown's bankruptcy law knowledge means he will do everything he can to protect clients from aggressive creditor behavior. 

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy  Is a Potential Alternative

A Chapter 13 bankruptcy may be pursued instead of Chapter 7. Chapter 13 is possible for individuals who have enough disposable income to pay off their debts over time.

Benefits of Chapter 13 Bankruptcy

The most common reason it is chosen over Chapter 7 is that Chapter 13 provides more robust protection against home foreclosure. Chapter 13 allows debtors to discharge more types of debt than Chapter 7. Chapter 13 also provides an avenue to catch up on delinquent payments that is not available in the more common Chapter 7. Another benefit of Chapter 13 is that it remains on your credit report for just 7 years as opposed to the 10 years of Chapter 7. 

Benefits of Chapter 7 Bankruptcy

On the other hand, Chapter 7 is much quicker. It can be completed in approximately six months, while a Chapter 13 repayment plan typically takes five years. Chapter 7 does not usually require you to appear in court. Chapter 7 can also be used by businesses – an option unavailable to Chapter 13 users. Mr. Brown will break down the pros and cons for you as he helps choose the best option for your future. 

More 5-Star Reviews From Middlesex County

1

Lateef Balogun

2023

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I’m telling y’all is one of the best lawyers in state.  He helped me out with my case without no stress.  Thank god I found him I swear to GOD he is good in what he does.

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1

Amber J.

2023

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After consulting with a few lawyers, Mr.Brown was, by far, my top pick, and I was glad to have him represent me. He was extremely professional, knowledgeable, realistic about my options, and a pleasure to work with. I was very happy with how he handled my case, listened to my wants and needs, and acted on my behalf.

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Law Offices of Adam C Brown Esq. PC

Law Offices of
Adam C Brown Esq. PC

Law Offices of Adam C Brown Esq. PC is a dynamic regional law firm practicing family and criminal law throughout the state of New Jersey. Our professional affiliations include:

  • New Jersey State Bar
  • Garden State Bar Association
  • Hudson County Bar Association
  • National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys

You can request a consultation online or by calling (973) 281-2388.

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