Tyler Bankruptcy Lawyers Giving You A Chance For A Fresh Start

When your debt is no longer manageable and you want to start over, William H. Lively, Jr. WHL, PLLC, has the knowledge and experience to help you. There is a heavy negative stigma surrounding bankruptcy due to the misconceptions many people hold. However, bankruptcy provides a clean slate for individuals and businesses by discharging most types of debt.

Our firm has spent more than 25 years helping thousands of clients throughout Texas start afresh by filing bankruptcy. With over 8,000 cases under our belt, we are one of the highest-volume bankruptcy firms in Eastern Texas. We handle only Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy cases, so we have in-depth knowledge of local and state laws. We are also known for taking great care of our clients.

For a free consultation, please call us in Tyler at 903-920-0008 or complete our contact form. We are the premier bankruptcy law firm serving all of East Texas.

We can help you if you are currently facing:

• Overwhelming credit card debt
• Unmanageable medical debt
• Abundance of loans
• Foreclosure
• Repossession
• Wage garnishment
• Harassing phone calls from debt collectors
• Delinquent child support payments

Do You Really Need Bankruptcy Relief?

Many people aren’t quite sure if they have to keep enduring the stress of having heavy debt. Let us assure you that you do not have to keep carrying that burden. If you are feeling stressed about medical debt, credit card debt, divorce-related debt or debt of any kind, filing for bankruptcy may be a good option for you.

Filing for bankruptcy is a big decision, and there is no substitute for case-specific advice and guidance from an experienced bankruptcy attorney. We encourage you to contact us today to learn more about your options.

How Can Filing For Bankruptcy Help?

The bankruptcy process can help you eliminate overwhelming debt through court-approved discharge (if filing for Chapter 7), or it can restructure your debt into a very manageable repayment plan lasting three to five years (if filing for Chapter 13). These are options that typically are not available through any other means.

Additionally, filing for bankruptcy can help you relieve stress and stop creditor harassment, giving you much-needed peace of mind. Our team is here to put your mind and heart ease and guide you through the process.

What Are The Different Types Of Bankruptcy, And Which One Is Right For Me?

In Texas, as in the rest of the United States, the most common types of bankruptcy are Chapter 7 and Chapter 13.

In Chapter 7, also referred to as liquidation bankruptcy or a complete bankruptcy, debtors can discharge many of their debts and must liquidate their nonexempt assets to pay their creditors.

Chapter 13 allows debtors to establish a payment plan over the course of three to five years. This prevents them from having to liquidate their assets.

Our bankruptcy lawyer can help you determine which chapter you should file when you set up your free initial consultation.

At William H. Lively, Jr. WHL, PLLC, we can take a look at your situation and advise on the best type of bankruptcy for your specific circumstances. Attorney Bill Lively can help you explore all your available options for debt relief.

What Types Of Bankruptcy Cases Do You Handle?

We help our clients find lasting debt relief through Chapter 7 bankruptcy and Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Our clients are often individuals and couples facing insurmountable debt. We also represent small business owners who cannot manage to keep their business afloat — often due to factors outside of their control.

Can You Keep Your Home If You File For Bankruptcy In Texas?

Texas has generous homestead exemptions that may allow you to keep your home when filing for bankruptcy, but it depends on the value of your home and which type of bankruptcy you file. Chapter 13 bankruptcy also has provisions that can help individuals catch up on overdue mortgage payments over time. Contact us today to learn more about your specific options. You can also see our overview of how bankruptcy can prevent foreclosure.

What Are The Main Reasons For Needing To File For Bankruptcy?

There has traditionally been a lot of stigma surrounding debt and bankruptcy. But in many cases, debt problems are just larger versions of the struggles that all of us face. Medical debt is among the leading causes of bankruptcy, even among people with health insurance. People may also pursue bankruptcy due to the costs of a messy divorce, small business debt, credit card debt or a combination of these things.

What Debts Are Dischargeable In A Texas Bankruptcy?

Most unsecured debts, such as credit card debt and medical debt, can be discharged in bankruptcy. However, certain debts like student loans, child support, alimony, certain taxes, and criminal fines are typically not dischargeable. To start getting a clear idea of the debts that are dischargeable in your bankruptcy, talk to us in a free consultation.

Do You Need A Local East Texas Bankruptcy Attorney?

Sometimes, out-of-town bankruptcy attorneys seek favorable results in the local bankruptcy court and come up short. We believe that having a local bankruptcy attorney like Bill Lively is your best option because he knows the East Texas bankruptcy court and the legal landscape of the area.

What Type Of Bankruptcy Works Best For Small Business Owners?

The type of bankruptcy you file for will depend on your specific circumstances, the type of business entity you own, and the overall health of your business. Our overview of bankruptcy for Texas business owners provides more information. Generally, you may qualify for Chapter 7 liquidation bankruptcy, or you may be able to establish a repayment plan through Chapter 13 bankruptcy. We have guided business owners throughout East Texas through both processes. We are here to help you, too.

Understanding The Difference Between Discharge And Dismissal In Texas Bankruptcy Cases

When facing financial hardships, filing for bankruptcy can be a pivotal decision. At the bankruptcy law firm of William H. Lively, Jr. WHL, PLLC, we understand the complexities involved in bankruptcy proceedings and aim to provide our clients with clear, comprehensive legal guidance. One common area of confusion in bankruptcy involves understanding the difference between a discharge and a dismissal. Both outcomes have distinct implications for the debtor, and it’s important to recognize these differences as you navigate your bankruptcy case. To discuss your specific options with a Tyler bankruptcy attorney, please call us today at 903-920-0008 or complete our contact form.

What Is A Bankruptcy Discharge?

A bankruptcy discharge is what many debtors aim for when they file for bankruptcy. A discharge is a court order that releases the debtor from liability for certain types of debts. This means that once a debt is discharged, the debtor is no longer legally required to pay it, and creditors are prohibited from taking any action to collect the debt, including communication with the debtor.

Discharges can occur in both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy cases, although the specifics of the discharge will vary depending on the chapter under which you file. In Chapter 7, most unsecured debts can be discharged quickly, typically within a few months of filing. In Chapter 13, the discharge typically occurs after the debtor completes a court-approved repayment plan, which can last between three to five years. However, if you can prove hardship, it may be possible to get your Chapter 13 debt discharged prior to completing your repayment plan.

What Is A Bankruptcy Dismissal?

A dismissal in a bankruptcy case is quite different from a discharge. A dismissal occurs when the case is closed without any debts being discharged. This can happen for various reasons, such as improper paperwork, failure to comply with court requirements, failure to attend the mandatory credit counseling, or a successful motion to dismiss by creditors or the bankruptcy trustee.

A dismissal can be either voluntary or involuntary. A voluntary dismissal happens when the debtor decides to withdraw their bankruptcy filing. An involuntary dismissal is when the court ends the bankruptcy due to non-compliance or other issues, as mentioned above.

In most cases, if your bankruptcy case is dismissed for any reason, there is a waiting period before you can file for bankruptcy again.

Key Differences And Implications

The key difference between a discharge and a dismissal is the finality of the debt obligation. A discharge means your debts are wiped out permanently, whereas a dismissal means you are back to square one, still owing your debts.

Moreover, a dismissal can have other legal implications. For example, it might prevent you from filing another bankruptcy for a certain period, which can vary depending on the chapter you initially filed under. Additionally, the original terms of your debts, including interest rates and penalties, generally resume if your bankruptcy case is dismissed.

How A Bankruptcy Attorney Can Help

At the law office of William H. Lively, Jr. WHL, PLLC, we are committed to guiding you through the complexities of bankruptcy, ensuring that you understand the implications of each step, including the critical differences between a discharge and a dismissal. Navigating these distinctions effectively can significantly impact your financial recovery and future stability.

If you are considering bankruptcy or have questions about the process, including whether a discharge or dismissal might apply to your case, our experienced team in Tyler, Texas, is here to help. We provide personalized legal advice tailored to your unique situation, helping you make informed decisions that lead to a brighter financial future.

Do Not Go Further Into Debt Paying Legal Fees

We make it a priority to provide affordable legal services so that you do not have to take on another financial burden. Our rates are reasonably priced, and we can offer payment plans when needed. In addition, we offer free initial consultations — no risk, no obligation.

Let’s Bust The Misconceptions About Bankruptcy

You have probably heard many misconceptions about bankruptcy: Bankruptcy is shameful. Bankruptcy is admitting defeat. Bankruptcy cannot save your situation. If you have considered bankruptcy but never taken that first step, these myths may be the reason holding you back. You should not let these falsehoods put you off from filing Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy in Texas.

Here, we will discuss the truth behind four common bankruptcy myths:

Bankruptcy Is Shameful

No one should feel ashamed about filing bankruptcy. Bankruptcy is actually a chance for a fresh start. It allows people who have an unmanageable debt to wipe their slates clean by discharging debts from personal loans, credit cards, and medical bills. Many people have filed before, and many will in the future.

Bankruptcy Will Destroy Credit

Following a bankruptcy, your credit score will probably drop, but only temporarily. Over time, you can rebuild it and once again have strong credit. The purpose of bankruptcy is to help you move toward a better financial future, not permanently ruin it.

Bankruptcy Is For Irresponsible People

The stigma surrounding bankruptcy is deeply entrenched. Many people mistakenly believe that anyone who files bankruptcy must be financially irresponsible.

It is true that a portion of people who go bankrupt made irresponsible decisions, but people file for numerous reasons. Some people have overwhelming medical debt from unexpected injuries or unavoidable conditions. Some lose their jobs and cannot keep up with payments. Others experience an unexpected life event that causes them to go into debt.

The truth is that debt affects all kinds of people.

Bankruptcy Is For Other People, Not Me

Every year, hundreds of thousands of people in the United States file for bankruptcy. The important thing to know is that bankruptcy has helped people who were in the same position as you — and it may be able to help you, too.

Discuss Whether Bankruptcy Is Right For You During A Free Consultation

You are not alone. William H. Lively, Jr. WHL, PLLC, can discuss bankruptcy with you and guide you through the filing process. To schedule your free consultation with an attorney, call our Tyler office at 903-920-0008 or fill out our contact form.

We are a debt relief agency. We help people file for bankruptcy relief under the Bankruptcy Code.