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The number of law firms available in the Herndon, Virginia, area can seem overwhelming, and someone already dealing with the anxiety of bankruptcy might be afraid of making a wrong step.

Your first question might be: where do I start? Let’s look at what is most important to know when seeking a bankruptcy law firm in Herndon, Virginia.

When people feel they have no other solution to their overwhelming debt problems, they make the critical decision to file for bankruptcy.

For many, this is the first step towards a debt-free future. And the next step is just as important—choosing the right bankruptcy law firm.

Consider these helpful tips when seeking a bankruptcy law firm in Herndon.

  • Don’t put this off any longer. You need to find an advocate to help you through what is a complicated and consequential legal process. Having a quality bankruptcy law firm behind you will give you the confidence you need to take on this challenge and save you money in the long run.
  • Find a firm that specializes in bankruptcy. Some law firms will happily take on your case, even if they do not have experience in this complex practice area. Make sure your firm has specialized bankruptcy training before you go any further.
  • Choose a firm with experience in Virginia. The Virginia State Bar Association has a great deal of information and resources for finding bankruptcy attorneys in the Commonwealth. 
  • Speak to friends and family who have gone through bankruptcy. These are often your first and best sources of information.

Once you have chosen one or more firms that might suit you, schedule your consultation. Most lawyers will offer this for free.

At this meeting, you can ask questions about your case; it is your opportunity to do the following:

  • Ask for a fee agreement.
  • Ask to speak with a bankruptcy lawyer.
  • Ask if Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy is better for you.

Bankruptcy Relief Types: Chapter 7 and Chapter 13

Two types of federal bankruptcy plans fit almost all people seeking bankruptcy relief—Chapter 7 and Chapter 13. Read on to learn more about both types to decide which suits you best.

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy

  • Sometimes known as liquidation bankruptcy.
  • Its goal is to wipe all debts clean for a fresh start.
  • Ends harassment from creditors and stops any pending debt collection.
  • All creditors will work through your trustee, who will be in charge of determining whether any non-exempt assets are available for distribution to creditors.

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy

  • Sometimes known as a wage earner’s plan.
  • This bankruptcy restructures debts rather than wipes them clean.
  • Allows the debtor to reduce the amount owed to a reasonable amount.
  • The debtor pays back outstanding debts over three to five years.

However, knowing that certain debts cannot be forgiven through bankruptcy is essential regardless of your chosen path. Those debts are:

  • Alimony
  • Child support
  • Student loans
  • Fraudulent debts
  • Some taxes

Contact Us Today

At WhitbeckBennett, we have been helping people and families in Herndon, Virginia, for generations, and we have experience filing both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy.

Our team of qualified financial lawyers is standing by to provide the confidential services you need at competitive rates. Don’t be discouraged by the intimidating bankruptcy process—call 800-516-3964 or contact us here to set up your initial consultation with WhitbeckBennett today.


Robert Moreton

By Robert Moreton

Partner

Robert D. Moreton is a Partner at WhitbeckBennett focused primarily on family law and bankruptcy. Before joining the firm, Robert co-founded a small law firm in 2012, where he gained invaluable litigation experience representing clients throughout Northern Virginia. In more than a decade of practice, Robert gained particular familiarity with the complex interplay of divorce and bankruptcy and possesses unique experience practicing in bankruptcy and state court.