Common questions
These are the questions people ask most often, including the ones they feel awkward asking out loud. Answered plainly, without judgment.
In almost every case, no. Bankruptcy filings are part of the public court record, which is true for everyone, but there is no announcement and no notice sent to your family or your employer. Most people in your life never know unless you choose to tell them. We are glad to explain exactly how this works for your situation.
Often, yes. Ohio law protects a certain amount of equity in your home, your car, and your household belongings, and many people keep everything they own. If you are behind on a mortgage, Chapter 13 can help you catch up and stay. We review what you have early on, so you know what is protected before you decide anything.
No. This is one of the most common fears, and it is mostly a myth. A filing does appear on your credit report for a number of years, but credit recovers faster than people expect once the underlying debt is resolved. Many people are surprised how quickly they can rebuild. We will point you toward sensible steps for doing exactly that.
No. Bankruptcy exists precisely because honest people sometimes find themselves in a hole they cannot climb out of alone, usually because of medical bills, a job loss, a divorce, or a business that did not work out. Using a tool the law created for this exact moment is a responsible decision, not a failure. We see it that way, and after a conversation, most people start to as well.
Yes to both. The first conversation costs nothing, and there is no obligation to file. Everything you share is confidential. We ask only for enough information to help, and we never collect financial documents, account numbers, or a Social Security number through this website.
It depends on the type of case and the complexity, and we believe you should know the number before you commit to anything. If you decide to move forward after your consultation, we quote a clear, flat fee up front, so there are no surprises. There are also court filing fees, which we explain plainly.
That depends on your income, what you owe, and what you want to protect. Broadly, Chapter 7 clears most unsecured debt quickly, while Chapter 13 sets up a repayment plan that can help you keep a home or car you have fallen behind on. You do not need to know the answer before you call. Figuring that out together is the whole point of the consultation.
Yes. In fact, that is one of the best reasons to call. Part of our job is telling people honestly when bankruptcy is not the right tool and another path would serve them better. You will get a clear, unbiased read on your options, and the choice will always be yours.