New Bankruptcy Laws

Seattle, Washington, Chapter 7 & Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Attorney

At the law firm of Leen & O'Sullivan, PLLC, in Seattle, Washington, our attorneys are well versed in the new federal bankruptcy laws that became effective October 17th, 2005.  Although these new laws make it more complicated to completely eliminate your debt under Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy, bankruptcy is still an option.

Contact us today to discuss how these new laws affect your bankruptcy case.  Call (206) 325-6022 or email Leen & O'Sullivan to arrange a free initial consultation with an experienced attorney.

Chapter 7 bankruptcy has not been eliminated, and filing bankruptcy is still as available as it always was.  Most of the changes that took effect under the new bankruptcy laws are technical and procedural in nature.

It is important to hire an attorney who is knowledgeable in these new requirements.   Filing bankruptcy is not just a matter of filling out forms.  This is a technical legal process.  We have the experience necessary to effectively represent your interests and ensure that your property will not be taken away and your case is not dismissed.

New bankruptcy laws require a bankruptcy means test to evaluate eligibility based on the annual income of the applicant, specifically looking at the last six months of income.  The new laws also require applicants to complete credit counseling with an approved agency before a case can be filed.  After a bankruptcy has been filed, and before it can be discharged, individuals then must complete a financial management course with an approved agency to help them get back on their feet and avoid further financial problems in the future.  Our attorneys can guide you through this process, and explain how to navigate the new bankruptcy laws.

Under the new bankruptcy laws, if your income is low enough, we can also petition the court for a waiver of the $300 filing fee.

Beware of non-attorney bankruptcy services offering extremely low-cost filings.  The cost you might save by hiring a paralegal, who lacks the knowledge and experience necessary to effectively handle these complex matters and is not allowed to give you legal advice, is not worth the risk of losing your house.

At Leen & O'Sullivan, your case will be handled by an attorney every step of the way. Contact us today to discuss your Chapter 7 bankruptcy or Chapter 13 bankruptcy filing with a dedicated, knowledgeable, and highly regarded Seattle bankruptcy lawyer.