01
Updated August 2026
Chapter 7 or Chapter 13: Understanding the Different Paths
A plain-language comparison of two common consumer bankruptcy chapters and the questions that shape the choice.
Read this guidePractice Area 05
Bankruptcy
Bankruptcy is a federal legal process, and the right chapter depends on income, property, debt, prior filings, and long-term goals. Our office helps clients understand the differences, gather the required information, and approach the process with a clear plan.
How We Help
Start with the right questions.
When debt becomes unmanageable, we help individuals evaluate whether Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 may offer a workable path forward. Chapter 7 generally focuses on the discharge of eligible debts, while Chapter 13 allows qualifying individuals with regular income to propose a repayment plan and pay debts over time.
- 01Which chapter may fit my income and goals?
- 02What property may be protected?
- 03How are secured and unsecured debts treated?
- 04What information should I gather before filing?
Bankruptcy Legal Guides
Learn the basics before the conversation.
These articles provide general information and a starting point for questions to discuss with an attorney about your circumstances.
02
Updated August 2026
Can Bankruptcy Help with Medical Bills?
How medical debt is commonly treated in consumer bankruptcy and why the rest of the financial picture still matters.
Read this guideDiscuss your next step