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Dixon & Johnston Law Office
Dixon & Johnston Law Office

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Bankruptcy Lawyers in Belleville, IL

There are many reasons that people can find themselves in financial trouble — the loss of a job, divorce and death of a spouse are prime examples. Whatever your reasons are, we understand that sometimes good people get into debt trouble and find themselves in over their heads. We also know about the stress that comes with financial difficulties and worrying that you might not be eligible for bankruptcy or that you might lose everything. At Dixon & Johnston Law Office, our lawyers are here to put your mind at ease.

Coronavirus and Bankruptcy

The coronavirus pandemic has destroyed the finances of many individuals and families. Unexpected layoffs have led to delinquent car payments and mortgages. We can help. The bankruptcy courts are still operating. The bankruptcy law can be used to protect your assets, stop foreclosures and prevent repossessions. Hearings are being conducted by phone. We continue to file cases and can meet with you in-person, by phone and email to get your case ready for filing and obtain the protection of the Bankruptcy Court. Just give us a call or contact us online to have your questions answered and get started.

Belleville Chapter 7 and 13 Bankruptcy Attorney

Our bankruptcy attorneys focus specifically on this area of law and can help give practical advice on topics such as:

  • Chapter 7: Talk to our talented bankruptcy attorneys to find out if you qualify for a Chapter 7 bankruptcy to discharge all or most of your unsecured debt.
  • Chapter 13: Sometimes a Chapter 13 is a better option for our clients. Discover if this alternative of a reorganization and debt repayment plan is right for you.
  • Foreclosures: Facing the prospect of a foreclosure is an overwhelming experience for anyone. Learn about your options and how you can keep your house through bankruptcy.
  • Repossessions: If you have fallen behind on car payments and are worried about it being repossessed, contact our firm to discuss how declaring bankruptcy might allow you to keep it.
  • Wage garnishment: If you are faced with the prospect of a creditor obtaining an order to garnish your wages, set up an appointment with our lawyers to discuss how filing for bankruptcy can stop the garnishment.
  • Payday loans: Many people have unintentionally fallen into the viscous cycle of taking out a monthly payday loan. Once you get caught in this cycle it can be difficult to escape. Talk to our firm about how you can include your payday loans in your bankruptcy.
  • The means test: You must take the means test to determine if you qualify for Chapter 7. Contact our firm to have one of our attorneys explain how the results are determined, and if Chapter 13 will be the suitable option for you.
  • Debt that cannot be discharged: When discharging debt, unfortunately, there are some financial obligations that you cannot be released from such as student loans, child support, spousal support, fraudulent debts and some condominium association dues.

Differences between Chapter 13 and Chapter 7

The differences between bankruptcy Chapter 7 vs. Chapter 13 can be tricky and difficult to pinpoint. That’s why it’s important for you to find a lawyer who can properly represent you in your time of need. The main distinction is income level, with Chapter 7 bankruptcy being simpler as it usually applies if you have a smaller income than someone who would apply for Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Over 70% of bankruptcy cases seen are Chapter 7, with the rest being Chapter 13. Apart from this, differences in both kinds of bankruptcy can also apply to:

  • Debts owed due to past crimes
  • Debts owed for child support
  • Debts owed for alimony
  • Debts owed for student loans
  • Mortgages
  • Car loans
  • Prior bankruptcy
  • Non-support debts owed in divorce, property settlement or agreement
  • Co-debt on personal loans
  • Nonexempt valuable property

When Filing For Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Makes Sense

Many people make the assumption that filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy is better than filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, because the latter may require you to pay back some of your debt. Chapter 7 isn’t the same in that it wipes out most debts; however, don’t let this deter you from making the right decision when it comes to which chapter to file under. Here are some cases when it’s best to file for Chapter 13 bankruptcy:

  • You have obligations or payments that can’t be discharged in Chapter 7
  • There is a co-debtor on at least one of your personal debts
  • You actually want to pay off your debts
  • You are behind on payments for your car loan or mortgage
  • You want to keep a nonexempt property

Belleville Bankruptcy and St. Clair County Debt Relief Attorney · Free Initial Consultation

From our offices in Belleville, Illinois, Dixon & Johnston Law Office represents clients in communities throughout Southern Illinois and the Metro East region of Illinois. Contact us at 618-233-1103 to schedule a free initial consultation with one of our accomplished attorneys today.

We are a debt relief agency. We help people file for bankruptcy relief under the Bankruptcy Code.