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How to File for Bankruptcy

How to File For Bankruptcy in Maryland

Giving you a fresh start in Frederick and Montgomery County

The choice to declare bankruptcy can be a difficult decision. However, it does not have to be the end for you. You have a number of options when filing your bankruptcy in Maryland. Some consumers use a non-lawyer bankruptcy petition preparer, believing that such a person is more compassionate and available than a lawyer. However, only an experienced attorney can advise you of your rights and represent you in court and every phase of your bankruptcy case. Our experienced bankruptcy attorneys at Wolff & Orenstein, LLC can help you through the bankruptcy process in Maryland and help you with a fresh start.

What is the bankruptcy filing process in Maryland?

Consumer bankruptcy always begins with a petition that is voluntarily filed by you. The decision to go to court is yours alone to make. When you meet with our attorneys, they require quite a bit of information regarding your:

    • Income
    • Expenses
    • Assets
    • Liabilities

Much of this information can be gleaned from your credit report and is used to file a petition and schedules. If an adverse action is immediately forthcoming and time is short, the schedules may sometimes be filed later. In addition, you also need to gather important financial and personal documents, including your:

  • Tax returns
  • Pay stubs
  • Social security card

Bankruptcy fraud is a serious crime with serious penalties. When you meet with our attorneys, do not hold anything back. You should answer all questions completely and honestly. We are here to advise you and to be an advocate for you.

What is the difference between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13?

Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcies have many differences. For filing purposes, the most significant difference involves the kind of debts you have and the assets that you want to keep. If you have mostly unsecured debts (credit cards, medical bills, payday loans, etc.), Chapter 7 may be the right choice. If you are behind on secured debts and you want to retain that property, Chapter 13 may be a better option. That is why we offer a no obligation consultation to determine which is the appropriate chapter for you to choose.

Does bankruptcy require a minimum or maximum amount of debt?

In many kinds of debt consolidation or refinancing plans, the terms of your debt contain either a floor or a ceiling. For example, a mortgage bank lends you only a certain amount of money toward the purchase of a new home. Bankruptcy does not require a minimum or a maximum. There are eligibility requirements, and most consumers qualify to file a Chapter 13. if you do not meet these very large eligibility amounts, an individual Chapter 11 will work for you, as Chapter 11 has no limits. Ask us for a free consultation.

Contact our bankruptcy attorneys for a free initial consultation and skilled, compassionate representation in Maryland

Our compassionate attorneys at Wolff & Orenstein, LLC understand what you and your family are going through when you file bankruptcy, and we are committed to help you move through this trying time. Contact our Rockville bankruptcy lawyers who are well known for their quality work. To schedule a complimentary initial consultation, call us at 301.250.7232 or contact us online.

Michael  G.  Wolff Attorney Photo
Michael G. Wolff
In Memoriam: Founding Member

In Memoriam It is with heavy hearts that we commemorate the life and legacy of our beloved Founding Member, Michael G. Wolff. Michael's distinguished career in the legal field was characterized by unwavering dedication and a commitment to excellence that left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him. Over the…

Jeffrey  M.  Orenstein Attorney Photo
Jeffrey M. Orenstein
Member

Commercial Litigation & Consumer Law Firm Attorney Biography:Jeffrey M. Orenstein is a skilled commercial litigator with a particular emphasis on bankruptcy litigation. He has been appointed to serve as Bankruptcy Trustee and Examiner in complex Chapter 11 cases. For more than 25 years, he has represented bankruptcy estates, bankruptcy trustees in multiple jurisdictions, creditors and…

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Matthew Abbott
Attorney

Biography Matthew E. Abbott is the latest attorney to join the Wolff & Orenstein, LLC team. Matthew graduated from American University Washington College of Law in 2019 after working for Wolff & Orenstein, LLC and the Office of the Special Inspector General for the Troubled Asset Relief Program (SIGTARP) as a law clerk. Prior to…

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    When you face difficult decisions regarding your personal finances and in other areas of your life, do not delay in reaching out to an experienced bankruptcy attorney. Contact Wolff & Orenstein, LLC. Serving Rockville, Frederick and Prince George's County, our firm is well known for quality work.
RECENT CASES
Md. Bkr. Case No.: 12-21288 (Chapter 7)
*Resolved litigation to release federal and state liens on Debtor's principal residence in Silver Spring, Maryland and discharged over $90,000.00 of tax obligations.

*Each case is different and past record is no assurance that the lawyer will be successful in reaching a favorable result in any future case.
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