Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Attorney Services

HELPING YOU FILE FOR CHAPTER 7 BANKRUPTCY

IN BEAUMONT, TX & THE SURROUNDING AREAS

At Maida Law Firm, P.C., we understand that financial hardship can affect every aspect of your life. Mounting debt, constant creditor calls, and the fear of losing your home or car can leave you feeling stressed and uncertain about your future. Since 1924, our firm has been dedicated to helping individuals and families throughout the Eastern District of Texas find a fresh financial start by filing for bankruptcy.

Chapter 7 bankruptcy is often known as a "liquidation" bankruptcy. While it does involve the potential sale of non-exempt assets to pay creditors, many people are pleasantly surprised to learn that they can protect most—or even all—of their property through exemptions under federal or Texas law. At Maida Law Firm, P.C., we will walk you through every step of the process, helping you determine what assets you can keep and making sure you fully understand your rights and options.

Our bankruptcy attorneys are here to guide you through complex topics, including:

Identifying available property exemptions
Understanding the current value of your property
Navigating the Chapter 7 means test
Avoiding foreclosure and repossession
Addressing creditor harassment
Managing secured and unsecured debts

Our ultimate goal is to put you on a path to financial stability. We will work diligently to create a bankruptcy strategy that helps you retain important assets like your home, car, retirement accounts, and personal belongings whenever possible.

With nearly a century of trusted service across three generations, Maida Law Firm, P.C. has been proud to serve clients in Beaumont, Dayton, Houston, Jasper, Liberty, Lufkin, Nacogdoches, Orange, Port Arthur, and Woodville, and throughout the Eastern District of Texas. If you're feeling overwhelmed by debt, contact us today to schedule your initial consultation. It would be our pleasure to assist you.

WHAT IS CHAPTER 7 BANKRUPTCY?

Chapter 7 bankruptcy is designed to eliminate unsecured debts like credit card balances, medical bills, payday loans, and personal loans. In a typical Chapter 7 case, the debtor’s non-exempt assets (if any) are liquidated to pay creditors. However, most Chapter 7 filings are considered "no-asset cases," meaning the debtor is able to keep all of their property thanks to exemptions.

To qualify for Chapter 7, you must pass a means test, which compares your income to the median income for a household of your size in Texas. If your income falls below the median, you typically qualify automatically. If your income is above the median, further calculations regarding your allowable expenses will determine eligibility.

Key benefits of Chapter 7 bankruptcy include:

Eliminating most unsecured debts: Wipe out debt without repayment obligations.
Stopping collection efforts: Immediately halt creditor lawsuits, wage garnishments, and harassment through an automatic stay.
Providing a fresh start: Begin rebuilding your financial future immediately after discharge, typically within 3–6 months.

Common types of debts discharged under Chapter 7:

Credit card debt
Medical bills
Personal loans
Past-due utility bills
Certain tax obligations (under specific circumstances)

Debts that generally are NOT discharged include:

Student loans (except in rare hardship cases)
Child support and alimony
Recent tax debts
Fines and penalties owed to government agencies

Understanding which debts can be discharged and how bankruptcy will affect your specific financial situation is critical. Our experienced bankruptcy attorneys can provide detailed guidance tailored to your circumstances.

WHY CHOOSE US WHEN FILING FOR CHAPTER 7?

Knowledgeable Chapter 7 Attorney

Filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy is more than filling out paperwork; it requires strategic planning, legal precision, and an understanding of how bankruptcy laws interact with your financial life. At Maida Law Firm, P.C., we have the expertise needed to:

Accurately assess your eligibility
Maximize the use of bankruptcy exemptions
Protect your home, car, and personal property
Address creditor objections or challenges
Ensure a smooth and efficient discharge process

Our attorneys will stand by your side throughout the entire process, explaining everything clearly and making sure you feel confident every step of the way.

Decades of Experience

Our firm was founded in 1924 and has been a trusted name for bankruptcy representation across Texas ever since. Passed down through three generations, Maida Law Firm, P.C. brings nearly a century of combined experience to your case. We have deep knowledge of the local court systems and trustees in the Eastern District of Texas, giving us a unique advantage when advocating on your behalf.

When you choose our firm, you benefit from time-tested strategies, a commitment to ethical practices, and a legacy of outstanding client service.

Client-First Philosophy

At Maida Law Firm, P.C., we believe every client deserves personalized attention and thoughtful legal counsel. We don't believe in a one-size-fits-all solution. Instead, we take the time to:

Understand your unique financial situation
Help you explore all available options (including alternatives to bankruptcy)
Provide honest, straightforward advice
Advocate fiercely for your best interests

Whether you're struggling with credit card debt, facing foreclosure, dealing with vehicle repossession, or simply feeling buried under bills, we're here to help you find the best path forward.

Our Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Process

At Maida Law Firm, P.C., we follow a thorough and compassionate process to ensure your bankruptcy filing is successful:

Initial Consultation: We'll discuss your financial history, debts, assets, income, and goals to determine if Chapter 7 is the right option.
Means Test Analysis: We'll conduct a comprehensive means test calculation to ensure you qualify for Chapter 7.
Asset and Exemption Review: We'll identify which of your assets are protected under federal or state exemptions.
Case Preparation: We'll prepare and file all required documents with the bankruptcy court, ensuring full compliance with all regulations.
Creditor Meeting (341 Meeting): We'll represent you at the mandatory meeting with your bankruptcy trustee, where you’ll answer basic questions about your finances under oath.
Debt Discharge: Upon successful completion of the process, most of your unsecured debts will be legally discharged, giving you a clean financial slate.

Have questions about bankruptcy, the Chapter 7 process, or other debt relief solutions? Visit our Frequently Asked Questions page or call us for direct answers and compassionate guidance.