Individuals
People with credit card, medical, or personal loan debt who are dealing with collection calls, lawsuits, or wage garnishment.
Consumer Bankruptcy
Consumer Bankruptcy
Filing for bankruptcy can be a difficult decision, but it can also be the first step toward a fresh start. Our attorneys help individuals and families file Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy and regain control of their finances.
Overview
Chapter 7 or Chapter 13: choosing the right path
Chapter 7 is designed to provide immediate relief from creditor calls, lawsuits, and wage garnishments (except for child support). Most debts that you do not reaffirm are discharged, usually about 90 days after your case is filed.
Chapter 13 lets individuals with regular income create a court-approved payment plan based on monthly payments they can afford. It can help you keep your house and car, catch up on past-due mortgage or car payments, and stop foreclosures and repossessions.
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Constant creditor calls and collection letters
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A lawsuit or wage garnishment
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Falling behind on a mortgage or car payment
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Credit card, medical, or personal loan debt you can no longer pay
Our Approach
What to expect when you work with us
Our first step is to listen. We discuss your situation, answer your questions, and explain your legal rights and options so you can decide on the best course of action.
Once you decide to move forward, we guide you through the process step by step, make sure all the required forms are completed accurately, and keep you informed as your case moves forward.
Who We Help
Who we represent
Families
Households that are behind on a mortgage or car payment and want to keep their home and vehicles.
Our Services
Areas of consumer bankruptcy practice
Not sure which service fits your situation? Contact us and we will help you sort it out.
Request A ConsultationChapter 7 and Chapter 13 filings
We routinely handle both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 cases, from the first consultation through discharge.
Foreclosure
Filing can stop a foreclosure, and Chapter 13 lets you catch up on past-due mortgage payments over time.
Mortgage servicing disputes
Disputes with a mortgage servicer over payments, fees, or the handling of your loan.
Guaranty defense
Defense when a lender seeks to hold you personally responsible for a loan you guaranteed.
Asset protection
Protecting your home, vehicles, and other property using the exemptions available under North Carolina law.
Bankruptcy litigation and adversary proceedings
Representation in lawsuits filed within a bankruptcy case, such as disputes over whether a debt can be discharged.
Biggs Law Firm
Meet your attorney
Former Chapter 13 Trustee, Eastern District of North Carolina.
Joseph A. “Jody” Bledsoe IIIAttorney
View Full BioConsumer BankruptcyYour First Consultation
Preparing for Your Consultation
What to bring
Bring any creditor letters, collection notices, or court papers, a list of your debts, recent pay stubs, and information about your home and vehicles. If you do not have everything, that is okay. We will let you know what else we need.
Call 919-375-8040 to scheduleFAQ
Frequently asked questions
These answers are general information, not legal advice. Every situation is different, so talk with an attorney about yours.
What is the difference between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13?
Chapter 7 eliminates most unsecured debts, usually within a few months, but the trustee can sell non-exempt property to pay creditors. Chapter 13 lets people with regular income keep their property and repay some or all of their debts through a court-approved plan, typically over three to five years.
Will filing bankruptcy stop creditor calls and lawsuits?
Yes. When your case is filed, an automatic stay generally requires creditors to stop collection calls, lawsuits, and most wage garnishments. Garnishments for child support are an exception.
Are there debts bankruptcy cannot eliminate?
Yes. Certain debts, such as child support, alimony, and many tax debts, generally cannot be discharged. We will review your debts with you and explain which ones bankruptcy can address.
Behind on bills, facing creditor calls, or worried about a lawsuit?
Schedule a consultation with one of our attorneys.