Question 1

What is the difference between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy?

Accepted Answer

Chapter 7 ("liquidation") eliminates most unsecured debts like credit cards and medical bills in 3–4 months. Chapter 13 ("reorganization") creates a 3–5 year repayment plan, allowing you to keep property and catch up on missed payments. About 63% of Utah filers choose Chapter 7.

Question 2

How much does it cost to file bankruptcy in Utah?

Accepted Answer

Our office offers Chapter 7 bankruptcy starting at $749 (limited-time offer). This includes attorney fees. Court filing fees are additional. Payment plans may be available. Chapter 13 fees are typically included in your repayment plan.

Question 3

Will I lose my house or car if I file bankruptcy?

Accepted Answer

Most people keep their home and car. Utah has generous bankruptcy exemptions that protect your property. In Chapter 13, you keep all your property while catching up on any missed payments through the repayment plan. During your free consultation, we’ll review your specific assets and exemptions.

Question 4

How long does bankruptcy stay on my credit report?

Accepted Answer

Chapter 7 stays on your credit report for 10 years from the filing date. Chapter 13 stays for 7 years. However, many clients see meaningful credit score improvements within 12–18 months after discharge, especially with active credit rebuilding.

Question 5

Can bankruptcy stop wage garnishment?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Filing bankruptcy immediately triggers an “automatic stay” that stops wage garnishment, collection calls, lawsuits, and foreclosure proceedings. The garnishment stops the moment your petition is filed with the court.

Question 6

Do I qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy?

Accepted Answer

Qualification depends on passing the “means test,” which compares your income to Utah’s median. Current limits (April 2026): 1 person: $87,898; 2 people: $95,757; 3 people: $112,751; 4 people: $131,741. Even if your income is above these limits, deductions may still help you qualify.

Question 7

What debts cannot be discharged in bankruptcy?

Accepted Answer

Certain debts generally cannot be discharged, including student loans (with limited exceptions), child support, alimony, most tax debts, criminal fines, and debts arising from fraud. Credit card debt, medical bills, and personal loans are typically dischargeable.

Question 8

How long does the bankruptcy process take?

Accepted Answer

Chapter 7 typically takes 3–4 months from filing to discharge. Chapter 13 involves a 3–5 year repayment plan, with discharge at completion. We offer same-day appointments and can file urgently when needed (such as to stop an imminent garnishment or foreclosure).

Question 9

Will everyone know I filed for bankruptcy?

Accepted Answer

While bankruptcy filings are technically public records, they are not published in newspapers or broadcast publicly. Most people’s filings are never noticed by anyone other than their creditors, who are notified by the court.

Question 10

Can I file bankruptcy if I’ve filed before?

Accepted Answer

Yes, with time limitations. You must wait 8 years between Chapter 7 filings, or 6 years between a Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 filing (with exceptions). You can file a Chapter 13 just 2 years after a previous Chapter 13. Interestingly, 52% of Chapter 13 filers in Utah in 2023 had filed within the previous 8 years.

Question 11

Do you offer free consultations?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We offer free, no-obligation consultations for consumer clients. During your consultation, we’ll review your financial situation, explain your options, and help you determine whether bankruptcy is the right choice for you. Same-day appointments are available.

Question 12

What areas of Utah do you serve?

Accepted Answer

We serve all of Utah from our Orem office, including Provo, Lindon, Pleasant Grove, American Fork, Lehi, Springville, Spanish Fork, Salt Lake City, St. George, Layton, Vernal, and more. We also offer Zoom consultations for clients outside of Utah County.

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