Queens Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Lawyer

Helping Clients in Suffolk County, Nassau County & All of New York Eliminate Debt

If you have debts you are unsure how you will pay back, and the amount you owe keeps growing, Chapter 7 bankruptcy may provide you with a chance to start over. However, choosing to file for this type of bankruptcy requires serious consideration.

At the Law Office of Seni Popat, we can provide a free consultation to evaluate your current financial situation and determine if you qualify for Chapter 7. If this form of debt relief seems the right option, our Queens Chapter 7 bankruptcy attorney can guide you through the process.

About Chapter 7 Basics From Attorney Popat

Are you looking to eliminate your debt? Call the Law Office of Seni Popat, P.C. today at (718) 340-3385 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our Chapter 7 bankruptcy lawyer in Queens! Services available in Hindi and English.

What are the Advantages of Chapter 7 Bankruptcy?

Chapter 7 is the most common type of bankruptcy because it erases most debt in only a few short months. It may be beneficial if you want to erase your overwhelming debt as quickly as possible.

Below are more benefits of filing for Chapter 7:

• The process from filing to discharging debt takes 2 to 3 months
• Bankruptcy can help get rid of medical bills
• Bankruptcy can stop wage garnishments
• Bankruptcy can help get rid of deficiency balance from a repossessed car
• Your credit score may go up
• You may be able to keep the exempt property (house and car) and the salary or wages you earn after you file
• You may be able to receive a new line of credit and credit cards within a few months after filing for bankruptcy
• You may be able to stop paying your credit card and other payments immediately when you file for bankruptcy
• Chapter 7 doesn't require you to have debts of any specific amount to file for relief

How to File for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy in New York

To file Chapter 7 bankruptcy in New York, you can follow these steps:

• Gather necessary documents: Collect all financial records, including income, expenses, assets, and debts.
• Complete a credit counseling course: Before filing for bankruptcy, you must complete a credit counseling course from an approved provider.
• Fill out the bankruptcy forms: Submit a petition to the bankruptcy court, providing details about your financial situation.
• Pay the filing fee: In New York, the filing fee for Chapter 7 bankruptcy is $338 unless the court grants a fee waiver.
• Submit the forms to the court: File the completed forms with the bankruptcy court electronically or by mail.
• Attend the meeting of creditors: After filing, you will be required to attend a meeting of creditors, where they can ask questions about your financial situation.
• Attend a debtor education course: Following the meeting of creditors, you must complete a debtor education course from an approved provider.
• Await the discharge: If everything goes smoothly, you will receive a discharge, which relieves you of most debts.

It is highly recommended to seek legal advice or assistance from a bankruptcy attorney to ensure compliance with specific New York bankruptcy laws and procedures.

What Debts Does Chapter 7 Eliminate?

Chapter 7 bankruptcy is a way to discharge certain debts. When a debt has been removed, it means that a creditor cannot hold you personally liable for the debt or carry out collections actions against you. It also brings an end to creditor calls and wage garnishment and prevents foreclosure actions.

Chapter 7 bankruptcy eliminates a variety of unsecured debts, including:

• Credit card debt
• Medical bills
• Personal loans
• Lawsuit debts/civil judgments
• Tax debt (in some cases)

Which Debts Cannot Be Discharged?

In Chapter 7 bankruptcy, the following debts cannot be discharged:

• Criminal fines
• Child support
• Alimony
• Student loan

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Requirements

To qualify for Chapter 7, your income must be less than the median income in the state of New York. Those who earn more than the median amount must pass the means test. The means test considers your income, expenses, and family size to determine if you have enough disposable income to pay back your debts. If you do not have enough to repay your debts, you pass the test and qualify.

Several circumstances could make a person ineligible to file, including:

• Failure to attend credit counseling
• Previous attempts at defrauding creditors or the bankruptcy court
• Having a debt discharged under Chapter 7 within the past eight years
• Having a debt discharged under Chapter 13 within the past six years

FAQs About Chapter 7 Bankruptcy in Queens, NY

Will I lose my home or car if I file for Chapter 7?

Possibly, but many Queens residents can protect their homes and vehicles using New York’s bankruptcy exemptions. If your equity in the home or car is within the exemption limits, you can likely keep them.

How long does the Chapter 7 process take in Queens?

The typical Chapter 7 case lasts about 3 to 6 months from filing to discharge. The process includes attending a 341 meeting of creditors, usually held at a courthouse or via teleconference.

How does filing affect my credit score?

Chapter 7 bankruptcy will negatively impact your credit score and remain on your credit report for 10 years. However, many debtors find that their credit begins to improve within a year or two after discharge, especially if they avoid incurring new debt and pay existing obligations on time.

Can both spouses file jointly in Queens, NY?

Yes. Married couples in Queens can file jointly for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. This may be beneficial if most debts are shared, but it’s not required — one spouse can file individually.

Will I have to go to court?

You will need to attend a 341 meeting of creditors, which is typically informal and not held in a courtroom. In most cases, you won’t have to appear before a judge unless complications arise.

How much does it cost to file for Chapter 7 in Queens?

As of 2025, the filing fee is $338. Attorney fees vary based on the complexity of the case, but many bankruptcy attorneys offer payment plans or flat fees.

Will creditors stop contacting me after I file?

Yes. Once you file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, an automatic stay goes into effect, which legally stops most creditors from contacting you, garnishing wages, or pursuing lawsuits.

Do I need a bankruptcy lawyer in Queens, NY?

While you are not legally required to hire an attorney, bankruptcy law is complex. Our experienced Queens Chapter 7 bankruptcy attorney can help ensure your paperwork is accurate, you claim the correct exemptions, and your rights are protected throughout the process.

Contact Our Queens Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Attorney Today

At the Law Office of Seni Popat, the priority of our bankruptcy attorney is to help our clients through difficult situations. Our team works closely with clients to eliminate debt and get a fresh financial start. If you believe filing for Chapter 7 is right for you or are considering bankruptcy and want to explore your options, reach out to our firm today. Our Queens bankruptcy attorney is ready to answer any of your questions!

Related Pages

• The 6 Most Pervasive Myths About Bankruptcy
• What are the Differences between Filing for Chapter 7 vs. Chapter 13
• NYC Taxi Medallion Bankruptcy. Chapter 7 or Chapter 13?

Contact the Law Office of Seni Popat, P.C. today to schedule a FREE consultation with our Queens Chapter 7 bankruptcy attorney!