St. Louis Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Lawyer
In today’s economy, it’s easier than many people think to get behind on their bills. A job loss, divorce, medical emergency—all of these can cause you to get so far behind on your mortgage and other bills that you’re not sure how you can recover. The thought of declaring bankruptcy seems scary to many people, but in fact, it can provide the financial re-set that you need to develop a workable repayment plan and find relief. Our St. Louis, MO Chapter 13 bankruptcy lawyer can help you preserve as much of your assets as possible and guide you through the bankruptcy process. Call Pioletti Pioletti & Nichols today for a consultation.
Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Lawyer St. Louis, MO
Chapter 13 bankruptcy is referred to as the “wage earner’s” form of bankruptcy, as it’s intended for individuals with a steady income who need to restructure their debts into a workable repayment plan. Many types of debts can be discharged under Chapter 13 bankruptcy, including unsecured loans like credit card debt. Even if you’re behind on your mortgage, you may still be eligible for financial relief in a Chapter 13 filing. You have five years to pay off the consolidated debts on a monthly repayment plan that suits your budget, providing you with breathing room and the opportunity for a fresh start.
Once your repayment period under Chapter 13 bankruptcy is completed, and as long as you made each payment in full and on time, the balance of your debts should be discharged. However, before you can file Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you must sell a significant portion of your assets and pay as much of your outstanding bets as possible. Our St. Louis Chapter 13 bankruptcy lawyer can help ensure that you retain as much of your money and property as possible, allowing you to continue working, keep your house, and have the means to rebuild your finances and credit. We can negotiate the best possible repayment plan on your behalf with your creditors; we only have your best interests at heart.
Our Experience Matters When Filing Bankruptcy
Filing bankruptcy can be more complicated than people suspect. When you work with our St. Louis Chapter 13 bankruptcy lawyer, you’ll receive personalized attention from a legal team with decades of combined experience. We know what’s possible under state laws and fight to preserve as much of your money and property as possible.
- We’re one of the oldest law firms in the St. Louis metro area, founded in 1938 with a rich history of unparalleled client advocacy
- Very Good AVVO rating, as rated by our peers, with featured attorneys honored each year
- Winner of Peoria’s 2024 Community Choice Awards for Best Law Firm!
- Firm lead attorney Don B. Pioletti Jr. understands both sides of your case, as he has served as an Assistant Illinois Attorney General and as an Assistant State’s Attorney
Do you need help filing Chapter 13 bankruptcy in Missouri? Call Pioletti Pioletti & Nichols today for a consultation.
Types Of Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Law Cases We Handle
Our bankruptcy protection lawyers at Pioletti Pioletti & Nichols have experience guiding individuals through the process of restructuring debt under Chapter 13 bankruptcy. With a strong focus on practical legal solutions, the firm guides clients through every phase of the process—from evaluating eligibility to developing and filing repayment plans. The practice serves clients facing long-term financial strain, offering assistance that helps stop foreclosure, avoid repossession, and manage tax debt. This includes representing those with steady income who want to retain assets while regaining financial control. A St. Louis, MO Chapter 13 bankruptcy lawyer from the firm can address a variety of issues that fall under this area of law.
Debt Reorganization For Wage Earners
Chapter 13 cases often involve clients with reliable income who are unable to keep up with debts such as credit cards, personal loans, or medical bills. A court-approved repayment plan allows them to reorganize and gradually pay down these obligations without losing key assets.
Stopping Foreclosure And Catching Up On Mortgage Arrears
Homeowners behind on mortgage payments may use Chapter 13 to stop foreclosure proceedings and catch up on past-due amounts over several years. This process allows them to maintain home ownership while resolving debt in a structured timeline.
Managing Vehicle Repossession Threats
Clients at risk of losing their car due to missed payments can benefit from Chapter 13 protections. The repayment plan may allow the past-due amount to be spread out, making it easier to retain the vehicle and avoid disruption to daily life.
Combining Secured And Unsecured Debt
Chapter 13 commonly combines secured debts, such as mortgages and car loans, with unsecured debts like credit cards and medical expenses. This consolidation simplifies repayment and may reduce the overall financial burden by prioritizing necessary obligations.
Addressing Tax Debt Through Repayment
Our Chapter 13 debt relief attorney will share that in some situations, past-due taxes can be included in a Chapter 13 plan. This allows individuals to pay the debt in manageable installments and avoid collection actions, wage garnishments, or additional penalties.
Debt Repayment With Co-debtor Protections
When another person is jointly liable for a debt, Chapter 13 can protect the co-debtor from collection during the plan period. This feature is particularly useful for family members or spouses who share financial responsibility for loans or credit.
Discharging Unpaid Debt After The Plan
At the conclusion of a successful repayment plan, remaining eligible debts may be discharged. This outcome gives individuals a clean financial slate while preserving important assets and avoiding liquidation.
Working with a St. Louis Chapter 13 bankruptcy lawyer can make a significant difference when restructuring debt under court supervision. These cases require legal guidance that balances financial details with court procedures. Each case—whether it involves foreclosure, repossession, or tax concerns—requires a close look at the filer’s financial situation and individual goals.
Legal Support Tailored To Long-term Debt Solutions
A Chapter 13 bankruptcy attorney from the firm is familiar with how different debts interact and what solutions are available under the law. This includes developing plans that fit the client’s income, protect assets, and meet court standards. At Pioletti Pioletti & Nichols, the legal team handles a wide range of repayment-based bankruptcy matters and works to help individuals regain control of their financial future. To speak with a St. Louis Chapter 13 bankruptcy lawyer about options for restructuring debt and avoiding asset loss, contact the firm today for guidance.
Common Causes Of Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
Financial difficulties can affect anyone, and Chapter 13 bankruptcy offers a practical opportunity for individuals to reorganize their debts and regain control of their finances while protecting their assets. This type of bankruptcy allows debtors to reorganize and repay what they owe through a structured plan over three to five years. At our firm, we’ve worked with individuals facing overwhelming debt and helped them explore solutions that make sense for their circumstances. We understand that financial recovery takes time and effort, and we are here to support that process from start to finish. For those considering this type of filing, consulting with our St. Louis, MO Chapter 13 bankruptcy lawyer can be an important first step toward financial stability.
Job Loss Or Reduced Income
One of the most common reasons people turn to Chapter 13 bankruptcy is the sudden loss of income or reduction in hours. Even a temporary setback can make it difficult to keep up with mortgage payments, car loans, or credit card bills. Without steady income, debt can quickly spiral out of control, and Chapter 13 provides a way to reorganize those debts while maintaining essential property.
Medical Expenses
Unexpected medical emergencies often lead to significant debt. Even with insurance, the cost of hospital stays, surgeries, and long-term care can overwhelm individuals and families. Chapter 13 bankruptcy allows medical debt to be included in the repayment plan, giving individuals the opportunity to pay it back over time rather than facing aggressive collection efforts.
Credit Card Debt And Personal Loans
Many people rely on credit cards or personal loans during tough times, and interest rates can make repayment nearly impossible. When minimum payments become unmanageable, filing under Chapter 13 can consolidate these debts into a single monthly payment. This allows individuals to reduce financial stress and focus on rebuilding their credit responsibly.
Divorce Or Separation
Divorce often causes major financial strain due to legal costs, new living expenses, and the division of property. Combined with changes in income, it can quickly lead to missed payments and mounting debt. For individuals working to regain financial stability after a separation, Chapter 13 can provide a structured repayment plan that offers a manageable path toward recovery.
Foreclosure Or Mortgage Arrears
Chapter 13 bankruptcy can stop foreclosure proceedings and give homeowners the chance to catch up on overdue mortgage payments over time. This option is particularly beneficial for individuals who have fallen behind but still have steady income. Rather than losing their home, they can use Chapter 13 to restructure payments and stay on track with their lender. Working with our St. Louis Chapter 13 bankruptcy lawyer can make a significant difference when addressing mortgage concerns and long-term repayment options.
Tax Debt
Certain types of tax debt can also be included in a Chapter 13 repayment plan. This provides an opportunity to pay back what is owed to the IRS or state tax agencies without additional penalties or interest piling up. Many individuals choose this route to handle overdue taxes while keeping other financial obligations manageable.
Unexpected Life Events
Sometimes, financial strain results from events beyond anyone’s control—such as natural disasters, car accidents, or supporting family members during hardship. These sudden expenses can drain savings and lead to unmanageable debt. Chapter 13 bankruptcy offers a way to reorganize finances while allowing individuals to maintain essential stability.
Building A Path Toward Financial Recovery
For those facing overwhelming debt, bankruptcy doesn’t have to represent a complete reset—it can serve as a smarter way to rebuild financial stability. With our experience helping clients through debt relief and repayment plans, we focus on creating strategies that work long-term and support lasting financial recovery. Our St. Louis Chapter 13 bankruptcy lawyer can assess your situation, explain your options, and help you take control of your financial future. To begin discussing your case and explore available solutions, contact our team at Pioletti Pioletti & Nichols today for trusted legal guidance and support.
