Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Attorney in Folsom, CA
Eliminate Unsecured Debt and Start Fresh
When debt becomes overwhelming and you need immediate relief, Chapter 7 bankruptcy may provide the solution you're looking for. Often referred to as "liquidation bankruptcy" or "straight bankruptcy," Chapter 7 allows eligible individuals to discharge most types of unsecured debt and achieve a fresh financial start in as little as three to four months.
At the Law Office of Tiffany L. Andrews, P.C., our Folsom bankruptcy attorneys have the knowledge and experience to guide you through the Chapter 7 process with confidence and care. Our legal team will provide you with honest and realistic guidance, enabling you to make informed decisions about your financial future.
Wondering if Chapter 7 bankruptcy is right for you? Schedule a consultation with our firm by submitting a contact form or calling (916) 794-4576 today.
What Is Chapter 7 Bankruptcy?
Chapter 7 bankruptcy is designed to give honest debtors relief from overwhelming financial obligations by eliminating most unsecured debts such as credit card balances, medical bills, personal loans, and utility bills. Upon filing, an automatic stay immediately goes into effect, stopping most collection actions, creditor harassment, wage garnishments, and foreclosure proceedings. This immediate relief provides breathing room while your case progresses through the bankruptcy court.
In a Chapter 7 bankruptcy, a court-appointed trustee reviews your assets and determines whether any non-exempt property must be sold to repay creditors. However, California's generous exemption laws allow most filers to protect essential assets.
These may include:
- Home equity
- Vehicles
- Personal belongings
- Retirement accounts
- Other necessary property
Many Chapter 7 cases are "no-asset" cases, meaning the debtor keeps all their property while still receiving a discharge of qualifying debts.
Who Qualifies for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy?
To qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you must pass the means test, which compares your income to California's median income levels. If your income falls below the state median for your household size, you generally qualify. If your income exceeds the median, you may still qualify if your disposable income is insufficient to fund a Chapter 13 repayment plan after accounting for allowed expenses and deductions.
Additional requirements include receiving credit counseling from an approved agency within 180 days before filing, not having had a Chapter 7 discharge within the past eight years, and demonstrating that you're filing in good faith without intent to defraud creditors.
The Chapter 7 Process: What to Expect
Immediate Actions
Filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy involves several essential steps. First, we'll work with you to gather comprehensive financial information, including income documentation, tax returns, bank statements, and a complete list of assets and debts. We'll then prepare and file your bankruptcy petition, schedules, and required documents with the bankruptcy court.
30 to 40 Days Later
Approximately 30 to 40 days after filing, you'll attend a Meeting of Creditors, also called a 341 meeting. Despite the name, creditors rarely attend these brief proceedings. The bankruptcy trustee will ask you questions under oath about your financial situation and bankruptcy paperwork. We'll prepare you thoroughly for this meeting and accompany you to ensure the process goes smoothly.
60 to 90 Days Later
After completing a required debtor education course and absent any objections from creditors or the trustee, the court will issue your discharge order, typically within 60 to 90 days after the 341 meeting. This discharge permanently eliminates your obligation to repay qualifying debts, giving you the fresh start you need to rebuild your financial future.
How the Law Office of Tiffany L. Andrews, P.C. Can Help
Chapter 7 bankruptcy involves strict deadlines and detailed legal requirements. Errors in your petition or incomplete asset disclosures can lead to delays, loss of property, or even allegations of bankruptcy fraud. Our firm’s meticulous approach ensures your paperwork is accurate, complete, and strategically prepared to maximize debt relief while safeguarding your assets under California’s exemption laws.
At the Law Office of Tiffany L. Andrews, P.C., we understand that filing for bankruptcy is a significant decision that affects your entire family. That’s why we take the time to answer your questions, address your concerns, and explain every step in clear, straightforward terms. We’re more than document preparers—we’re dedicated advocates committed to securing the financial relief and peace of mind you deserve.
Contact us at (916) 794-4576 or through our online contact form to schedule a consultation with an experienced Chapter 7 bankruptcy attorney in Folsom.
-
“Dedicated and Professional”
Ms.Andrews represented My husband and I for a very emotional child custody case in early 2010. She was professional, prepared and most importantly fought for our side to be heard by all parties involved.- Previous Client
We are thankful for all the hard work that she put into our case that lead to a positive ending for our case. We would recommend Ms. Andrews for any legal issues that you may have in family court. -
“Kindness and Generosity”
I can not thank me Andrews and her team enough for the kindness and generosity they showed me throughout one of the most difficult things I’ve had to deal with in my life. My head was spinning after months of googling and weighing my options while searching for a lawyer to handle my case. I imagine like most in the working class you may be afraid that you will make the mistake and hire the wrong lawyer. Wasting all your funds and end up no better off than you were. This was not the case with Tiffany and her team. I made the stupid mistake of going to the first part of my divorce custody case of going at it alone my case was very clear and I trusted the justice system to do what was right. This was not the scenario I faced. The opposition lawyer was able to manipulate everything and knew loopholes that the average person wouldn’t even believe was something that could happen in a court room. I can not stress enough it does not matter what is right and what is wrong you need a lawyer to protect yourself. As far as I’m concerned Tiffany and her team are mericle workers. I went into this thinking “oh great I’m going to be manipulated out of more and more money and I’m going to end up where I started anyway” following Tiffany’s advice I ended up being able to protect myself. From the moment I retained ms Andrews she was there for me literally day and night. I had many questions and issues throughout my case and though I don’t suggest anyone bothering her after business hours there were a few times I felt I needed to contact her and received a response very shortly after. These responses were often reassuring that she had things under control. This is a huge factor for me. Also she was very knowledgeable and always represented herself and myself in good light. I did not want to be vicious and aggressive and she managed to be assertive without being over the top. She was very respectful and I never had the feeling hat things were over my head. She always took the time to explained things to me in a way that I could understand and make well informed decisions. I would and will recommend me Andrews and her team to anyone looking for the best.- Brian -
“Peace of Mind”
Tiffany is perfect! She made herself available to me right away! She is a great listener!! I would recommend her to anyone going through custody battles and divorce.- LaCrisha -
“I am very lucky to have Tiffany Andrews as my attorney!”
Tiffany Andrews is highly professional and knowledgable attorney. I am very pleased with the results.- kvitkoolga -
“Great Attorney!”
Thus far I am impressed with Tiffany L. Andrews. I found Tiffany on this very site while on a time crunch. Great reviews gave me hope. The start of my case occurred on a Wednesday night, Thursday night I was informed I needed legal counsel. I searched the web for hours until I came across Tiffany. The morning of Friday I called the office to schedule a phone consultation and informed them I needed a lawyer ASAP. Monday morning Tiffany showed up in court to represent me and I felt a sense of ease. I appreciate that Tiffany is very accessible. If I have a question she responds within a timely manner. She is very knowledgeable and goes the extra mile to protect your privacy and rights. I hope the rest of my child dependency case is smooth sailing from here on out. Thank You, Tiffany, for your help. Greatly appreciated!- Previous Client -
“Tiffany cares about her clients and fights for their rights.”
Tiffany worked on my foster/adoption case - that was long, difficult, and drawn out. She researches every angle, is intuitive, intelligent and fights for her clients' to get the best possible outcome. Also, she genuinely cares about her clients best interests and provides guidance and counsel throughout the process.- Lora -
“Very Helpful and Knowledgeable”
Tiffany gave me practical advice concerning a child welfare case in Solana County, CA. She understands California dependency law and was available to answer my question on short notice. I highly recommend her.- Christopher -
“Child Custody Case”
- AlanTiffany was asked to represent me in court as my primary attorney was called to attend another court case.
Tiffany acted in a very professional manner, was very supportive, Tiffany made sure that she has a good understanding of my case prior to attending court. Whilst we waited for the court to open Tiffany was very attentive to me, asking me if I had any questions, trying to relax me even though this is a highly confrontational custody case. During the wait time, Tiffany noticed that the other attorney was acting inappropriately and immediately challenged his position, to which he apologized.
Once in court Tiffany took the lead putting forward our case, she did this in a well-structured way. Each point had solid reasoning and when the apposing council tried to interrupt Tiffany politely asked him to wait until she had completed his argument. Tiffany mentioned to the judge the incident in the waiting area and the Judge was very clear that this behavior was unacceptable. The judge listed intently to Tiffany points and contentions, the facts were very clear and he was able to make the required decisions based on her submission without further clarification on my custody request.
Despite the fact Tiffany was covering for another attorney, I could not have asked for better support. She is an outstanding attorney, very knowledgeable on custody cases and the rules relating to custody. I would have not had a second thought engaging Tiffany as my primary attorney or making a recommendation to anybody who needs an excellent divorce/custody lawyer.
Thank you for your support - you were outstanding
