Wipe out unsecured debt. Rebuild with confidence.
Free Consultation • Virtual or In-Person (Orland Park & Downtown Chicago)
Who We Help
Overwhelmed by credit cards, medical bills, lawsuits, or wage garnishments? Chapter 7 may give you a true fresh start by discharging qualifying unsecured debts and stopping most collections through the automatic stay.
We serve individuals and families across Chicago and the South Suburbs, offering flexible evening virtual consults and convenient office visits.
Why Chapter 7?
- Immediate Relief: The automatic stay typically halts collection calls, garnishments, and lawsuits.
- Fresh Start: Many unsecured debts (like credit cards and medical bills) can be discharged.
- Faster Timeline: Most cases finish in a few months.
- Keep What Matters (Exemptions): Illinois law protects certain assets. We’ll advise you on current exemption rules and strategy for your specific situation.
Not sure if you qualify? We’ll review income, expenses, assets, and recent transactions and advise you clearly—no pressure.
Is Chapter 7 Right for You?
Chapter 7 may be a fit if you:
- Have primarily unsecured debts (credit cards, medical bills, personal loans)
- Are facing lawsuits or wage garnishment
- Are behind after a job loss, medical hardship, or other life event
- Want the fastest path to discharge and a clean slate
It may not be a fit if you:
- Have high, steady disposable income (we’ll check the “means test”)
- Need to catch up on a mortgage or car note (Chapter 13 may be better for curing arrears)
- Recently transferred assets or used large cash advances (we’ll review timelines and risks)
What to Expect with Our Firm
Step 1 — Free Consultation (15–30 minutes):
We assess your goals, review basics, and outline next steps. Meet by Zoom/Teams or at our Orland Park or Downtown Chicago office.
Step 2 — Strategy & Checklist:
You’ll get a secure intake and custom document list. We’ll explain exemptions, the means test, and any red flags.
Step 3 — Document Prep & Filing:
We prepare and file your petition, schedules, statements, and related forms. Filing triggers the automatic stay.
Step 4 — 341 Meeting (Trustee Meeting):
A brief (often 10–15 minute) Q&A with the trustee—usually virtual or by phone. We prep you thoroughly.
Step 5 — Discharge & Rebuilding:
If all goes smoothly, discharge follows after the required steps. We provide a post-bankruptcy credit rebuild plan.
What’s Included
- Attorney review and eligibility analysis
- Guidance on Illinois exemptions (homestead, vehicle, wildcard, etc.)
- Complete petition & schedules preparation and filing
- Communication with the trustee and creditors as needed
- Preparation for and attendance at the 341 meeting
- Required education course guidance
- Post-discharge credit rebuilding tips
Fees & Free Consultation
We offer a free initial consultation to determine fit. Transparent flat fees and flexible payment options available. Court filing fees and required credit courses are separate, and we’ll outline those clearly before you commit.
Ask about payment plans that let you get filed sooner while staying compliant with fee-payment rules.
What to Bring (Document Checklist)
- Last 6 months of pay stubs (or proof of income)
- Last 2 years of tax returns
- Recent bank statements
- List of creditors and amounts due (statements are helpful)
- Vehicle titles/registration; lease or loan statements
- Mortgage statements, deed, or lease
- Photo ID & proof of Social Security number
- Any lawsuits, garnishments, liens, or collection letters
Don’t have everything yet? That’s okay—start with the free consult and we’ll build a custom list.
FAQs
What debts are typically discharged in Chapter 7?
Most unsecured debts like credit cards, personal loans, and medical bills. Some debts—such as certain taxes, domestic support obligations, and most student loans—are not dischargeable.
Will I lose my property?
Many clients keep essential assets using Illinois exemptions. We’ll review your situation and plan for maximum protection under current rules.
How long does it take?
Most Chapter 7 cases take a few months from filing to discharge, assuming there are no complications.
Will bankruptcy ruin my credit forever?
Your score may dip initially, but many clients begin rebuilding within months. We’ll give you a practical roadmap to recover and improve.
Can I keep my car or home?
Often, yes—especially if you’re current and the equity fits within exemptions. We’ll assess options and risks upfront.
Why Choose Our Firm
- Illinois-Focused Strategy: Practical, plain-English guidance tailored to Chicago & the South Suburbs
- Responsive Team: Phone, text, and email updates—no being left in the dark
- Clear Pricing: Flat fees, payment options, and no surprises
- Holistic Support: We also handle estate planning, probate, real estate, and small-business matters for long-term stability
Ready for a Fresh Start?
Free Chapter 7 Consultation
- Schedule Online: https://calendly.com/attyreynoldslaw/15minbk
- Orland Park Office (In-Person)
- Downtown Chicago (In-Person)
- Call/Text: (833) 878-7837
- Email: bankruptcy@attyreynolds.com
Same-week consults available. Evening virtual appointments by request.
Compliance & Disclaimers We are a debt relief agency. We help people file for bankruptcy relief under the Bankruptcy Code. This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. An attorney–client relationship is not formed until a written engagement agreement is signed. Eligibility depends on your specific facts, including income, assets, recent transactions, and the means test. Illinois exemption amounts and rules change over time; we will advise you on the most current laws at your consultation.