Chapter 13

Cuyahoga County Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Lawyer

Committed to Helping Clients Start Over

Many individuals who file for Chapter 13 bankruptcy are doing so to avoid foreclosure. In fact, the Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Law was created to help debtors who have fallen behind on their mortgage payments. At Van Ness Law, we are here to help you navigate the complex Chapter 13 bankruptcy process. We can help you avoid foreclosure by developing a repayment plan that will pay your creditors over three to five years.

With our help, you can stop foreclosure, avoid repossession, stop creditor harassment, and put an end to wage garnishment.

To find out if Chapter 13 bankruptcy is right for you, contact our firm today. We serve clients throughout Lake, Geauga, Ashtabula, Lorain, Portage, and Summit Counties.

How Does Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Work?

Chapter 13 is also known as "reorganization" bankruptcy. When you file for Chapter 13, you will still be required to pay your debts, but you will do so over a period of time.

This type of bankruptcy is ideal for those who have a steady income and can afford to pay back a portion of their debt.

There are several types of debts that are not dischargeable in Chapter 13 bankruptcy, such as:

  • Child support
  • Alimony
  • Student loans
  • Debts that arose from fraud

When you file for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, the court will issue an order that prohibits creditors from attempting to collect on these debts. If the court approves your repayment plan, the debts will be discharged after three to five years.

Benefits of Filing for Chapter 13 Bankruptcy

Filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy can be a challenging decision to make, but it can also provide significant benefits for those struggling with debt. Here are some of the advantages of filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy:

  • Keep Your Assets: Unlike Chapter 7 bankruptcy, Chapter 13 allows you to keep your assets while still addressing your debt. You will have to repay your creditors through a repayment plan, but you can keep your home, car, and other assets.
  • Stop Foreclosure: If you are at risk of losing your home due to foreclosure, filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy can help you stop the process and work out a repayment plan to catch up on missed payments.
  • Reduce Debt: Through the repayment plan, you can potentially reduce your debt by paying a portion of what you owe over a period of three to five years.
  • Debt Consolidation: Chapter 13 bankruptcy consolidates your debts into one monthly payment, making it easier to manage your finances and stay on track with payments.
  • Protection from Creditors: Filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy puts an automatic stay on collection activities, stopping creditor harassment and giving you some breathing room to get your finances in order.

If you are considering Chapter 13 bankruptcy, our Mayfield Heights bankruptcy lawyers can help you understand the process and determine if it is the right choice for your situation. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

How We Can Help You

At Van Ness Law, we can help you determine if Chapter 13 bankruptcy is right for you. If it is, we can help you complete your bankruptcy forms and file them with the court. We can also help you develop a repayment plan that will pay your creditors over three to five years.

Schedule your free initial consultation by calling our Cuyahoga County Chapter 13 bankruptcy lawyer at (440) 650-1787 or filling out our online contact form today.

the Difference Between Chapter 7 & Chapter 13

Chapter 7 is known as "liquidation" bankruptcy. When you file for Chapter 7, your assets will be sold to pay your creditors. There are several exemptions to protect your property, however.

Chapter 7 is ideal for those who have little to no assets. If you have a lot of assets, Chapter 13 is likely the best option for you.

To schedule a free initial consultation with our attorney, contact Van Ness Law online or call (440) 650-1787.

Client Reviews

Read What They Say About Us
  • "Mr. Van Ness made this process smooth and worry free."
    He really made me feel relief...Can't thank him enough.
    - Juanita B.
  • "I was nervous about filing bankruptcy until I sat down with Charles."
    To say that I left his office with excitement and confidence about my future would be an understatement. My experience was excellent. Charles is a true professional.
    - Antonio J.
  • "Mr. Van Ness is an excellent lawyer and very responsive and respectful."
    He immediately puts you at ease and answer any questions you have. I was very nervous thru the whole process but as he said no question is silly.
    - Pat G.
  • "Mr. Charles Van Ness is a great man to whomever is in need of his service"
    Mr. Charles Van Ness is a great man to whomever is in need of his service I would strongly recommend him to you… even though I did not accomplish anything from the estate he did work hard to try and do so I appreciate the effort and blessings to his
    - Anna W.
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    Such a sigh of relief to be on the other side of our situation now with all the help they provided.
    - Keith C.
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    He was professional, well spoken, efficient, and affordable.
    - Kelley B.
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    He works quickly to get the job done.
    - Debbie K.
  • "Mr. Ness work very hard for me and he helped me out and I really appreciate it."
    One of my friends gave me Mr. Ness phone number and when I called him he was so friendly and he was so understanding he calmed me down.