Helping individuals and businesses navigate debt relief, bankruptcy filings, and financial restructuring
Debt & Bankruptcy Law Services
At Monroe Legal Counsel, I understand that financial difficulties can happen to anyone. Economic downturns, medical emergencies, job loss, divorce, or business challenges can lead to overwhelming debt despite your best efforts. As an experienced bankruptcy attorney, I provide compassionate, judgment-free guidance to help you regain control of your financial future.
Comprehensive Debt Relief Solutions
My bankruptcy and debt relief practice focuses on helping both individuals and businesses explore all available options. I take the time to understand your unique financial situation and goals before recommending the most appropriate path forward.
Personal Bankruptcy Services
For individuals and families struggling with debt, I provide detailed guidance on:
- Chapter 7 Bankruptcy: Also known as “liquidation bankruptcy,” Chapter 7 can eliminate most unsecured debts, including credit cards, medical bills, and personal loans, typically within 3-4 months. I’ll help you understand if you qualify, which assets you can protect through exemptions, and guide you through the entire process.
- Chapter 13 Bankruptcy: This “reorganization bankruptcy” allows you to create a 3-5 year repayment plan while protecting your assets. It’s particularly helpful for those facing foreclosure, car repossession, or who don’t qualify for Chapter 7. I’ll help develop a manageable payment plan based on your income and expenses.
- Means Test Analysis: I’ll analyze your financial situation to determine your eligibility for different bankruptcy chapters and help you choose the most beneficial option.
- Exemption Planning: I’ll work to help you protect as many assets as possible through strategic use of South Carolina and federal exemptions.
- Automatic Stay Protection: Filing bankruptcy immediately stops most collection actions, including foreclosures, repossessions, wage garnishments, and harassing creditor calls.
Business Bankruptcy & Restructuring
For business owners facing financial challenges, I offer strategic guidance on:
- Chapter 11 Bankruptcy: This allows businesses to reorganize debts while continuing operations. I help develop reorganization plans, negotiate with creditors, and navigate the complex Chapter 11 process.
- Small Business Bankruptcy (Subchapter V): This streamlined process offers small businesses a more efficient and less expensive path to reorganization.
- Chapter 7 Business Liquidation: When reorganization isn’t feasible, I guide business owners through the orderly liquidation process while minimizing personal liability.
- Out-of-Court Workouts: In some cases, negotiating directly with creditors outside of bankruptcy may be the best option. I represent businesses in these negotiations to restructure debt without formal bankruptcy proceedings.
Additional Debt Relief Services
Bankruptcy isn’t the only solution to financial challenges. I also assist clients with:
- Debt Settlement: Negotiating with creditors to reduce overall debt balances and create manageable payment arrangements.
- Mortgage Loan Modifications: Working with lenders to modify mortgage terms to prevent foreclosure.
- Debt Collection Defense: Representing clients facing lawsuits from creditors or dealing with aggressive collection tactics.
- Student Loan Assistance: Exploring options for managing student loan debt, including income-driven repayment plans, deferment, forbearance, and in limited cases, discharge options.
- Tax Debt Resolution: Addressing IRS tax issues through offers in compromise, installment agreements, or bankruptcy when applicable.
My Approach to Bankruptcy & Debt Cases
Financial distress is often accompanied by stress, anxiety, and sometimes shame. My approach focuses on providing both legal expertise and emotional support during this challenging time:
- Compassionate Guidance: I create a judgment-free environment where you can openly discuss your financial concerns.
- Education: I ensure you understand all available options, the pros and cons of each, and what to expect throughout the process.
- Personalized Solutions: I recognize that every financial situation is unique and develop strategies tailored to your specific circumstances and goals.
- Thorough Preparation: Careful preparation of all required documentation and filings is essential for a successful bankruptcy case. I’ll guide you through each step to ensure compliance and maximize your benefits.
- Long term Financial Health: Beyond immediate debt relief, I focus on helping you establish a foundation for future financial stability.
Bankruptcy is not a sign of failure but a legal tool designed to provide a fresh start. Many successful individuals and businesses have used bankruptcy to overcome temporary financial setbacks and go on to thrive.
If you’re struggling with overwhelming debt, don’t face it alone. Contact my office today to schedule a confidential consultation to discuss your situation and explore your options for financial recovery.
