Bankruptcy

Picking the Right Debt Resolution Plan for You

Bankruptcy & Related Areas of Expertise

bankruptcy form with a black pen laying across it
  • Exemption Planning

  • Chapter 7 Liquidation

  • Chapter 13 Repayment

  • Debt Negotiation & Settlement

We understand that filing for bankruptcy can be a stressful and overwhelming situation, which is why we strive to make the process as simple and straightforward as possible by providing individualized advice tailored to your specific needs. We’ll take responsibility for all aspects of your case—from gathering documentation, and submitting paperwork on time, to helping you manage communications with creditors.

Whether you are an individual in need of debt relief or a business facing financial hardship, our experienced attorneys will work hard to ensure that your interests are fully protected during this challenging time. We have won numerous cases involving chapter 7 and chapter 13 filings, so rest assured that when it comes to fighting bankruptcy proceedings, we know exactly what we are doing.

Top-rated Scottsdale Bankruptcy Law Firm

Our Scottsdale-based bankruptcy law practice will help you end the harassment of debt collectors and make the right decisions when it comes to bankruptcy or debt negotiation. Below are some of the options you have when it comes to relieving your debt burden.

Types of Bankruptcy Options

Exemption Planning

For some law firms, the filing of a bankruptcy is the first step in their representation of a client. For us, the bankruptcy filing is a small and calculated part to a greater debt resolution plan. State law specifically identifies assets which are beyond the reach of creditors and it is not uncommon for us to find that clients have not maximized the value of their assets in these protected categories. Prior to entering into any debt resolution plan, our attorneys analyze our clients’ assets and advise which assets are protected, which are not, and which could be moved to maximize their protected status. For some clients, this step could involve only minor changes while for others, the changes could be extensive resulting in significant asset preservation as part of the client’s debt resolution plan. In certain circumstances, proper exemption planning may be all that is required to adequately protect a client’s interests from their creditors.

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy

Chapter 7 is the form of bankruptcy that is most commonly filed in the United States. Individuals or businesses may file for Chapter 7 if the debts they owe to their creditors become unmanageable. Filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy allows you to keep some property that is considered exempt from the liquidation of assets, such as a real estate mortgage. A Chapter 7 bankruptcy will remain on your credit report for 10 years after filing. The negative effect of this blemish on your credit report may be preferable, however, to the effect not paying your current bills is having, as filing for Chapter 7 will remove the unpaid debts from your credit report. Contacting a Chapter 7 lawyer at Thomas Law should be the first step in getting your life back on track.

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy

Chapter 13 allows you to retain your assets provided your debtors accept your plan to pay them within 3 to 5 years. This will allow you to stop foreclosures, eliminate your debts after a period of time, and end collection efforts by third-party collection agencies. To file for Chapter 13, you do need to have the financial ability to follow the payment plan you have outlined. Chapter 13 filing does remain on your credit report for 10 years, but allows for the discharging of a wider array of debts than allowed under Chapter 7. Our firm employs some of the best Chapter 13 bankruptcy attorneys in Scottsdale and can aid in any type of bankruptcy filing, including Chapter 13. 

Debt Negotiation Services

Debt Negotiation is an alternative to filing for bankruptcy. In this scenario, you and your creditors will agree on a reduced amount that can be paid to settle your debt. Debt negotiation can help you to avoid the credit stigma associated with filing for bankruptcy. While approaching your creditors to settle a debt can be daunting, a lawyer can act as your representative and do all the negotiating for you.

A high debt burden can be a stress on your mental health as well as your financial status. Let us help you move toward financial freedom!

Bankruptcy Law Firm in Scottsdale, AZ

Are you looking for a bankruptcy lawyer in Scottsdale to help you with your Chapter 7 or 13 filing? Look no further! Our bankruptcy lawyer at Thomas Law, PLLC focuses in the area of debt relief and has the knowledge and experience to get you the best outcome for your situation. If you or someone you know needs assistance with filing for bankruptcy protection, please contact us today! Our office is conveniently located in Scottsdale, Arizona, and offers flexible appointment times that work around your schedule. We look forward to working with you!

Frequently Asked Questions About Bankruptcy

How does bankruptcy work in Scottsdale?

Filing for bankruptcy in Arizona isn't any different than filing in another state as the bankruptcy process falls under federal law, not Arizona state law. It works by unwinding the contracts between you and your creditors, providing you a fresh start.

What is exempt from bankruptcy in Scottsdale?

Your income must be less than Arizona's median income for your family size or you must pass the Means Test, which is a test based on your income and expenses. Alternatively, a person may qualify for Chapter 7 based on the types of debt they have.

How do you qualify for bankruptcy in Scottsdale?

Chapter 13 allows you to retain your assets provided your debtors accept your plan to pay them within 3 to 5 years. This will allow you to stop foreclosures, eliminate your debts after a period of time, and end collection efforts by third-party collection agencies. To file for Chapter 13, you do need to have the financial ability to follow the payment plan you have outlined. Chapter 13 filing does remain on your credit report for 10 years, but allows for the discharging of a wider array of debts than allowed under Chapter 7. Our firm employs some of the best Chapter 13 bankruptcy attorneys in Scottsdale and can aid in any type of bankruptcy filing, including Chapter 13.

What is the lookback period for bankruptcy in Scottsdale?

There is a two-year look back for these transactions in bankruptcy court, but may be far longer in your state (for instance, Arizona has a four year look back period)

Schedule Your Bankruptcy Consultation

Bankruptcy consultations are free. Construction and other general civil
litigation matters are subject to a consultation fee of $150 for a one hour consult.