facebook

Frequently Asked Questions About Bankruptcy

At Ambrogio, Pletter & Associates, LLC, we help clients seek debt relief through bankruptcy. We also advise clients on loan modifications, refinancing, short sales and other options.

Call 203-502-7436 to schedule a free consultation. We serve clients in Stratford, Bridgeport and other surrounding Connecticut towns.

What is Chapter 7 bankruptcy?.

  • Chapter 7 bankruptcy liquidates an individual’s unsecured debt. Eligibility for Chapter 7 is determined by a means test that is based on a comparison between the debtor’s income and the average income of households of a similar size in the state of Connecticut.

What is Chapter 13 bankruptcy?.

  • Chapter 13 bankruptcy involves restructuring debt and developing a plan for repayment. This plan usually spans three to five years and involves paying mortgage arrears and a portion of other debts. Chapter 13 is also known as “wage earner’s bankruptcy,” as debtors are usually workers with steady income.

How long does bankruptcy take?.

  • While each case is different, a typical Chapter 7 bankruptcy lasts four months from the time of filing until the discharge of debt. Only one meeting is involved, the “meeting of creditors,” and debtors are required to attend. Creditors may attend to challenge the terms of the bankruptcy. Our attorneys accompany clients to the meeting of creditors.

What is involved in the bankruptcy process?.

  • In order to file bankruptcy, our firm collects information from clients (such as pay stubs, tax returns, bills, etc.), prepares a budget and prepares paperwork which is reviewed and signed by you. Under the new bankruptcy laws, credit counseling is required. This involves two sessions which are usually completed over the phone and take approximately one hour each.

Can I keep my car?.

  • As long as you are current with your payments, you can “reaffirm” your car loan. This involves re-obligating yourself to your car loan company.

Can I keep my house?.

  • If you are current on your mortgage and are able to continue making your monthly mortgage payment, you should be able to keep your home.

Can I discharge my second mortgage/home equity loan?.

  • There are circumstances in Chapter 13 bankruptcy in which a homeowner can remove a second mortgage or home equity loan from his or her property and discharge it. Contact us to discuss the specifics of your case.

How much does bankruptcy cost?.

  • Chapter 7 bankruptcy — Filing fee: $335. Attorney fees: Between $1,000 and $2,500 in most consumer bankruptcy cases.
  • Chapter 13 bankruptcy — Filing fee: $310. Attorney fees: Between $1,500 and $3,000 in most cases.

“Without a doubt, Tim is one of the best attorneys in his field. He is organized, thorough, and very clear. I always knew exactly what he needed and what I had to do. The process of bankruptcy can be very overwhelming, but he was able to break it down in manageable pieces. He is well-respected by his peers and clients. It was clear to me that he was highly regarded by the courts, as well. I strongly recommend Tim Pletter as he has made the whole experience a positive one. Despite his detail-orientation and business-like image, he has a very nice way about him which can really help during such an emotional time. ~ SLV”.

Contact Us To Learn More About Bankruptcy FAQs

For specific answers to your bankruptcy-related questions, contact our Stratford or Bridgeport, Connecticut, lawyer at 203-502-7436 or contact us online. We offer a free initial consultation.