Bankruptcy Law Attorney / Debtor Relief / Student Loans Serving Garrett County, Allegany County, MD., Fayette County, Somerset County, PA.

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What Common Things Lead to Bankruptcy?

Some of the common causes for filing bankruptcy are the loss of employment, unexpected illness of yourself or a loved one, divorce or break up of a long-term domestic relationship, or making unfavorable business, budgeting or investment decisions. Of course, there are many other reasons to land in debt. A healing approach is to accept the fresh start and take the required debtor's education course assisting you in making sound future financial decisions. 
Bankruptcy Attorney

How Can Bankruptcy Provide Relief? 

Some of the common benefits for bankruptcy are relief from debt payment, slowing down or stopping a foreclosure, arresting debt garnishments, slowing down or preventing automobile repossession, and sometimes providing for relief from taxes. While taxes are only relieved under certain circumstances and are most often unavoidable, a Chapter 13 bankruptcy may allow for long term payments of taxes, student loan payments, or other types of debt that cannot be discharged. If you have a regular source of income and wish to schedule mortgage arrears over a period to keep your home out of foreclosure, filing a Chapter 13 may be an option in addition to non-bankruptcy alternatives, such as loan mitigation through mediation or other negotiations.


While every effort is made to give accurate information on this page, each person's individual condition is unique. Thus, nothing here can be taken as an effort to give any person specific legal advice.


If you are seeking legal advice, then you need to contact this firm and make a personal appointment. When we meet, we will supply you with information required by the United States Bankruptcy Code to determine if bankruptcy is right for you.

Discover Your Options with a Trusted Legal Professional 

We can advise you as to specifics after you provide the information we request. While generally there is no charge for an initial short consultation, we can also agree upon the fees for any legal advice or analysis you may want to act upon and for filing any bankruptcy proceeding if you choose that option. If bankruptcy is not an option for you, we can examine other forms of debt relief. Everybody's case is different, and this firm cannot guarantee results in your case, but we can give you an honest evaluation as to the likelihood of your successful recovery of benefits.
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(301) 895-5240

Student Loan Forgiveness or Deferment

This firm can even help with student loans. While student loan debt is rarely discharged in bankruptcy, some other options may be available to you. For example, if you file a Chapter 7 bankruptcy and the loans are relatively small, while other debts are relatively large, by being relieved of your other unsecured or even secured debt, you may free up money to handle the student loans. A Chapter 13 may allow you to schedule student loan payments over a period. Also, there are many non-bankruptcy options available, such as applying for forbearance, sometimes requesting debt forgiveness, combining student loans, and pegging loan payments to income levels.  Since the pandemic revisions and forbearances have been implemented, and the criteria is changing.  You can consult with us for the updated information regarding student loans.  You can also refer to the "Current Events" section to view new opportunities, some only temporary, which may be helpful.  A consultation will be valuable to determine if any of the recent program changes may be applicable to you, as well as the standard benefits that have been available for quite some time. 

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(301) 895-5240

General Video

General information, approximately 10-minute video

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You should not feel shame if filing bankruptcy is an option for you. It is for honest debtors, who, through no intent of their own, have found themselves in an unfortunate situation. Throughout our culture, we find value in getting the fresh start bankruptcy provides. Many famous and successful people have benefited from a fresh start. Look them up on the Internet. The results may surprise you!


This firm strives to keep current. Since this video was produced, the debt eligibility for a Chapter 13  filing has expanded and is now set at a maximum of $526,700.00  for secured debt and $1,850,125.00 for unsecured debt. These limits are linked to economic fluctuations  and will change from time to time. This firm will keep you abreast of the periodic changes relating to bankruptcy eligibility, allowable property exemptions, costs, filing fees, and means-testing criteria.

Subject Matter Videos

What is bankruptcy?

What are the different types of bankruptcy?

How much does it cost to file for bankruptcy?

What documents are needed to file for bankruptcy?

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(301) 895-5240

Local Bankruptcy Attorney FAQ

  • How Much Does It Cost To Hire a Local Bankruptcy Attorney?

    Attorney fees for bankruptcy cases may vary based on case complexity and the chapter filed. Generally, there is no charge for an initial short consultation at our firm. Fees for legal advice, case analysis, and filing are discussed and agreed upon before proceeding, so you always know what to expect. Call us at (301) 895-5240 to discuss your situation.

  • What Is the Process of Filing for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 With a Bankruptcy Law Attorney?

    Filing for bankruptcy typically involves a consultation, document preparation, and court filing. With Chapter 7, most unsecured debts may be discharged relatively quickly. Chapter 13 involves a structured repayment plan spanning three to five years. A bankruptcy attorney guides you through each phase, from the means test to the automatic stay, helping you avoid costly errors. Learn more on our Chapter 7 bankruptcy page or our Chapter 13 bankruptcy page.

  • How Do I Choose the Best Bankruptcy Attorney for My Financial Situation?

    The right local bankruptcy attorney for you will depend on your debt type, income, and financial goals. Key factors to consider include:

    ▸ Experience handling both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 cases in Maryland.

    ▸ Membership in professional organizations such as the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys.

    ▸ A practice that offers personalized attention and honest case evaluations.

    ▸ Transparent fee arrangements discussed before legal work begins.

    ▸ Local knowledge of Maryland courts and bankruptcy procedures.


  • What Are the Primary Benefits of Working With a Bankruptcy Law Attorney Instead of Filing Alone?

    Working with an experienced bankruptcy attorney may significantly improve your outcomes. A bankruptcy law attorney can help you avoid procedural errors, negotiate with creditors, and protect eligible assets. Self-filed cases often face delays or dismissals due to missing documentation or missed deadlines. Professional representation helps ensure your petition is properly structured and submitted on time.

  • How Long Does the Debt Discharge Process Typically Take When Using a Local Bankruptcy Attorney?

    The timeline can vary depending on the chapter you file. Chapter 7 bankruptcy typically concludes within a few months of filing, while Chapter 13 requires completion of a three-to-five-year repayment plan before debts are discharged. Every case is different, and your local bankruptcy attorney can provide a realistic estimate based on your specific circumstances.