When debt becomes overwhelming, bankruptcy may offer a lawful and effective way to regain control of your financial future. Whether you are facing foreclosure, wage garnishment, mounting credit card debt, or constant calls from creditors, bankruptcy can provide immediate relief and a clear path forward.
Attorney Thomas H. Rossback represents individuals seeking bankruptcy protection in Grays Harbor County and surrounding areas, offering guidance through each step of the process with clarity and professionalism.
Bankruptcy consultations are available.
Understanding Bankruptcy
Bankruptcy is a federal legal process designed to give individuals relief from unmanageable debt while protecting certain assets. Filing bankruptcy triggers an automatic stay, which immediately stops most collection actions, including lawsuits, garnishments, and foreclosure proceedings.
Two of the most common forms of consumer bankruptcy are Chapter 7 and Chapter 13. Each serves a different purpose depending on your financial situation, income, assets, and goals.
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
Chapter 7 bankruptcy—often referred to as “straight bankruptcy”—is a liquidation-based process that allows individuals to discharge most unsecured debts.
In a Chapter 7 case:
- A court-appointed trustee reviews the debtor’s assets
- Property protected by legal exemptions cannot be sold
- In many cases, no assets are liquidated
- Debtors attend one court hearing called a 341 meeting
- A discharge is typically granted about 60 days later
For many individuals, Chapter 7 cases last approximately 90 days from filing to discharge.
What Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Can Do for You
- Stop wage and bank account garnishments
- Stop creditor lawsuits
- Stop collection calls and harassment
- Eliminate most unsecured debts
- Provide a financial fresh start
In many cases, the assets of an average household are fully protected by exemptions.
Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
Chapter 13 bankruptcy is a reorganization bankruptcy available to individuals with regular income. Instead of liquidating assets, debt is repaid through a court-approved payment plan lasting three to five years.
Chapter 13 may be appropriate if you:
- Are behind on mortgage payments and want to avoid foreclosure
- Need time to catch up on secured debts
- Have non-exempt assets you want to keep
- Want to stop vehicle repossession
- Need to reinstate a suspended driver’s license
Payments are typically made directly to a Chapter 13 trustee, who then distributes funds to creditors. Once the plan is successfully completed, remaining eligible debts are discharged.
What Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Can Do for You
- Stop foreclosure and repossession
- Stop lawsuits and garnishments
- Allow you to retain valuable assets
- Reorganize debt into manageable payments
- Provide long-term financial stability
Bankruptcy Guidance You Can Trust
Bankruptcy is not a failure—it is a legal tool designed to help people move forward. Choosing the right chapter and filing correctly can have a lasting impact on your financial recovery.
If you are unsure whether bankruptcy is right for you, or which option fits your situation, legal guidance can help you make an informed decision.
