Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Lawyers in Cincinnati
Representing individuals, couples, and small businesses in Chapter 7 filings for more than 40 years.
Overview of Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
Chapter 7 bankruptcy, often referred to as “liquidation bankruptcy,” is designed to help individuals and families eliminate overwhelming unsecured debt and obtain a fresh financial start. It is one of the most common forms of bankruptcy and is typically completed in a relatively short period of time.
In a Chapter 7 case, a bankruptcy trustee is appointed to review the debtor’s assets and financial situation. Most filers are able to keep all or most of their property through available state and federal exemptions. In exchange, eligible unsecured debts are discharged, meaning the debtor is no longer legally responsible for paying them.
To qualify for Chapter 7, an individual must pass the “means test,” which evaluates income and expenses to determine eligibility. Those whose income is below the applicable median or who demonstrate limited disposable income may qualify. Most Chapter 7 cases are completed within approximately three to four months from filing to discharge.
Why Mezher Law for Chapter 7
Our attorneys bring decades of combined experience handling Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy cases for individuals, couples, and small businesses.
- We review what you owe, what you own, and what you need to protect before recommending a chapter.
We combine experience, strategy, and compassion to guide clients through the process with confidence and clarity, from the first consultation through discharge.
Who Chapter 7 Is For
Chapter 7 is often the right path for people who need a faster discharge and do not need a long-term repayment plan to catch up on a house or car. It is typically a liquidation case, not a three- to five-year plan.
We represent individuals, couples, and small businesses. Which chapter fits still depends on your income, assets, and what you need to protect.
- Individuals or married couples who pass the means test, which compares income to state medians
- Small businesses impacted by financial struggles
- Filers who want a fresh start without a long-term repayment plan
- People whose qualifying unsecured debt (credit cards, medical bills, personal loans) is the main problem
Which Debts Can Be Discharged?
A discharge in Chapter 7 means you are no longer legally responsible for paying eligible unsecured debts. Not every debt is eligible, and all debts must still be listed in the petition.
- Debts usually discharged include credit card debt, medical bills, personal loans, utility bills, old lease or contract debts, and certain judgment debts
- Debts usually not discharged include student loans, support and alimony, most taxes, court fines and criminal restitution, and debts from fraud or intentional harm
- A mortgage or car loan can be listed even if you intend to keep paying it; keeping the house or car still depends on exemptions and whether you stay current or can catch up
Benefits of Filing Chapter 7
Filing generally triggers an automatic stay that can stop creditor harassment, lawsuits, garnishments, and collection efforts while the case proceeds. Timing matters if a garnishment, repossession, or foreclosure is already underway.
- Immediate relief through the automatic stay
- A fresh financial start without a long-term repayment plan
- Elimination of qualifying unsecured debt
- Most filers keep all or most of their property through available exemptions
How a Chapter 7 Case Moves Forward
You provide documents. We prepare the petition, meet with you to review and sign, and file the case in federal court. A trustee is appointed to review the filing. We attend the meeting of creditors with you and stay with the matter through discharge.
A straightforward Chapter 7 case often lasts a few months. Complexity, missing documents, or objections can add time. After discharge, many individuals can begin rebuilding credit within one to two years, even though the bankruptcy typically stays on a credit report for 7 to 10 years.
If you do not pass the means test, or if you need time to catch up on a mortgage or car loan, Chapter 13 may be the better path.
Looking for a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Attorney Near You?
Call or message us to talk through your finances and options.
FAQs
Chapter 7 is typically a liquidation case that can discharge qualifying debt more quickly. Chapter 13 is a three- to five-year repayment plan that can help you catch up on a mortgage or car loan while still addressing other debts. Which chapter fits depends on your income, assets, and goals.
Yes. All debts must be listed in the petition, including debts you hope to keep paying, such as a mortgage or car loan.
Not necessarily. Most filers keep all or most of their property through available exemptions. We review exemptions and your payment situation before recommending a filing.
Most Chapter 7 cases are completed within approximately three to four months from filing to discharge. Missing documents or objections can add time.
The bankruptcy typically stays on a credit report for 7 to 10 years. Many individuals can begin rebuilding credit within one to two years after filing.
Chapter 13 may still be available. Unlike Chapter 7, there is no means test disqualification for Chapter 13, so it can be an option for those who earn too much to qualify for Chapter 7.
Testimonials & Results
Client review
What to Expect
Here is how working with Mezher Law typically moves forward on a bankruptcy matter:
Step 1
Talk through your finances
Schedule a consultation and share what you owe, what you own, and what you need to protect. There is no obligation to file.
Step 2
We prepare the petition
You provide documents. We prepare the petition (and a Chapter 13 plan when needed), then meet with you to review and sign.
Step 3
File and follow through
The case is filed in federal court. We attend the meeting of creditors with you and stay with the matter through discharge.