Bankruptcy
I represent debtors in Chapter 7 bankruptcy cases. Chapter 7 is a liquidating bankruptcy, in which the debtor's debts are discharged. Secured creditors' liens on collateral are generally unaffected by a Chapter 7 filing. Other claims, such as certain back taxes and the like, can also survive Chapter 7, meaning that the debtor still owes those debts after the Chapter 7 case is completed. Some assets are exempt, either under federal law or state law.
The law concerning who is eligible to file Chapter 7, and what effect such a filing will have, has changed considerably over the past several years. Perhaps the most dramatic change is that of determining whether the debtor qualifies for Chapter 7. That question depends on many factors, most importantly the debtor's income. If the debtor's income exceeds a certain amount, qualification for Chapter 7 depends on the results of a "means test". The means test consists of an evaluation of the debtor's income and expenses to determine whether, and the extent to which, the debtor qualifies for Chapter 7.
I try to manage my fee structure to be competitive with other bankruptcy lawyers in the area.
Please feel free to give me a call for a free consultation, or send me an e-mail through this site.
Dennis J. Shea
903 State Street, Suite 208
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Telephone: 805-284-9703
Fax: 866-786-0933