Bankruptcy Law
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy in Spokane, Yakima, Tri-Cities, Pullman and the rest of Eastern and Central Washington.
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“Thanks again for all your help. 🙂 I really appreciate it. Thanks so much.”
From Avvo
John Spalding is a highly competent and diligent bankruptcy attorney. He handled our case with the utmost professionalism and care. He got us every exemption we were entitled to and explained the process every step of the way. His fee was extremely fair and we are very pleased with our outcome.
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What is Chapter 7 Bankruptcy and What Does It Do?
Chapter 7 bankruptcy is a legal process designed to give individuals a fresh financial start by wiping out most unsecured debts, like credit cards and medical bills. Known as “liquidation bankruptcy,” it involves selling non-exempt assets to pay creditors, though many filers keep essentials due to exemptions. A Spokane bankruptcy attorney can explain how this applies to you.
So, what does it do? Filing triggers an automatic stay, halting lawsuits, wage garnishment, and creditor harassment immediately. This relief helps you regain control. Beyond personal benefits, Chapter 7 keeps economic activity flowing—freed from impossible debts, you can spend at Spokane’s local businesses again. It’s not about giving up; it’s about moving forward. For tailored insight, consult a Spokane bankruptcy attorney to see if Chapter 7 fits your situation and explore your options.
The Process of Filing for Bankruptcy
The Chapter 7 bankruptcy process offers a clear path to a fresh start, guided by a Spokane bankruptcy attorney. It begins with a consult to assess your situation, followed by intake to gather your financial details. Next, you’ll complete required pre-filing courses on credit management. A credit check ensures accuracy, then your petition is reviewed for completeness. Filing with the court triggers an automatic stay, halting creditor actions. After filing, you take a post-course on financial literacy. The 341 meeting follows, where creditors may ask questions, though they rarely attend. Additional hearings may occur if issues arise. Then, a 60-day wait allows objections (usually none). Finally, the discharge eliminates eligible debts, and your case closes. This is your fresh start! For fearless guidance, contact Spalding, a Spokane bankruptcy attorney, to navigate the process smoothly and reclaim your financial freedom.
How is Spalding different from other bankruptcy lawyers in Spokane, Yakima and elsewhere?
There are some great bankruptcy lawyers in Spokane, Washington, not to mention Yakima, Pullman, the tri-cities and elsewhere. Bankruptcy attorneys in Spokane, for instance, are a very friendly and cordial group. We each bring something different to the table. In my case, I came of age during the internet boom and am used to doing everything official through online tools like Zoom and email. This is important because the entire bankruptcy process in Eastern Washington is done online via Zoom, e-filing, and (for the most part with lawyers, trustees, some creditors and the court) electronic notifications. So, if you prefer a modern approach, and don’t mind not having to drive around looking for parking, we’re probably a very good fit.
I also handle all client interactions, from the consult to the close. My clients get my mobile number (509-906-2221) and my email address. My clients are always welcome to contact me when the need arises. Some firms, invariably from outside Washington, run what are known as bankruptcy mills. These types of outfits cut cost by cutting corners. Their attorneys are hard to reach, and might only “touch” your file at the petition review and then again at the meeting of creditors. This can be a recipe for trouble if they don’t get documents to trustees, fail to timely respond to objections, don’t fully analyze your specific set of facts, or otherwise screw your case up. This is a bit of a problem if you’re already stressed, or if you ever have legal questions. I mean, as nice as it is to occasionally reach their office staff, the problem is that their staff of paralegals cannot actually answer legal questions in an advisory role. This is not great value.
If you want an okay lawyer, a mill might work for you, but if you want a great Spokane bankruptcy lawyer who operates throughout the district, then you need John Spalding. Imagine being able to pick up the phone and get a lawyer on the other end.
Filing bankruptcy in Eastern Washington.
Chapter 7 bankruptcy offers a streamlined way to eliminate unsecured debts, and the process is now fully accessible online. As Spokane bankruptcy lawyer and a Yakima bankruptcy lawyer, Spalding can guide individuals through every step. It all happens via Zoom consultations and e-filing, making it convenient and efficient to file for bankruptcy petition across the Eastern District of Washington. Spalding services this entire region, adapting to modern tools for efficiency. The process starts with a free consultation, where financial challenges are assessed. From there, intake collects key details, followed by mandatory credit courses. Filing electronically triggers an automatic stay, pausing creditor actions. A virtual 341 meeting with trustees follows, often without creditor attendance. After a 60-day waiting period, eligible debts are discharged, closing the case. This remote system ensures accessibility, whether you’re in Spokane, Yakima, or beyond, with a Spokane bankruptcy lawyer or Yakima bankruptcy lawyer providing informed support throughout.
Areas of Eastern Washington Served by Spalding Law Firm PLLC:
Spokane County, Yakima, Pullman, Kennewick, Ellensburg; Adams County, Asotin County, Benton County (including Richland), Chelan County, Columbia County, Douglas County, Ferry County, Franklin County, Garfield County, Grant County, Kittitas County, Klickitat County, Lincoln County, Okanogan County, Pend Oreille County, Stevens County, and Walla Walla County.