Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Attorney in Massachusetts
If you’ve fallen behind on your mortgage, car payments, or tax bills—but still have steady income—Chapter 13 bankruptcy may be the best way to keep what matters most and get back on track. We help clients across New Bedford, Brockton, Fall River & Cape Cod file Chapter 13 before it’s too late.
What Is Chapter 13 Bankruptcy?
A Repayment Plan That Protects Your Property
Chapter 13 is often called the “wage earner’s plan” because it’s designed for people who earn income but need time to catch up. Instead of liquidating assets, Chapter 13 lets you restructure your debt into one affordable monthly payment—spread over 3 to 5 years.
It puts a stop to:
- Foreclosure & repossession
- Wage garnishment
- Lawsuits & creditor calls
And it gives you a chance to:
- Keep your home & car
- Catch up on past-due payments
- Pay down back taxes
- Protect co-signers
- Reduce or discharge unsecured debt (like credit cards & medical bills)
Who Should File Chapter 13?
This May Be Right If You...
- Own a home and want to stop foreclosure
- Are behind on a car loan or tax debt
- Don’t qualify for Chapter 7 due to income or recent filing
- Need to protect assets that aren’t covered by exemptions
- Want to combine debts into one court-approved monthly plan
Many of our clients in Southeastern Massachusetts choose Chapter 13 to avoid losing their home or car—and because it offers more flexibility than other options.
The Chapter 13 Process
Here’s How It Works
Free consultation
We look at your income, debt, and goals
Credit counseling
A quick online session you can complete in about an hour
We file your petition
This puts an automatic stop to foreclosure or garnishment
We propose a repayment plan
You make monthly payments based on what you can afford
Monthly payments begin
Typically through a court-appointed trustee
Court confirmation hearing
The judge reviews and approves the plan
Once the plan is complete, any remaining eligible debt is discharged—and you’re officially starting over.
Why Timing Matters
Waiting Could Cost You More
If your home is scheduled for foreclosure, your wages are about to be garnished, or you’ve received a court judgment—now is the time to act. Filing before those things happen makes the process cleaner and your outcome stronger.
We’ve helped clients stop foreclosures just days before the sale date. If you’re close to the edge, we can move fast.
Local Help You Can Count On
We work directly with clients across:
- New Bedford
- Fall River
- Brockton
- Mashpee & Barnstable County
- Dartmouth, Wareham, Hyannis, Taunton & surrounding towns
Meetings available in person or virtually. We’ll meet you where you’re at—literally & financially.
Common Questions
FAQs About Chapter 13
Can Chapter 13 stop foreclosure in Massachusetts?
Yes. As soon as your case is filed, the foreclosure process is frozen. Chapter 13 gives you 3–5 years to catch up on missed payments.
Do I have to pay all my debts in full?
No. Many clients pay back just a portion of their unsecured debts. What you pay depends on your income, expenses, and assets.
Can I pay off the plan early?
In some cases, yes. We’ll go over your options based on how your plan is structured.
What happens if I miss a payment?
It depends. Sometimes we can modify the plan. But if you’re falling behind, talk to us right away so we can protect your case.
Is Chapter 13 better than debt consolidation?
Often, yes. Unlike a loan, Chapter 13 is a court-supervised process with legal protections.
[Read more → link to blog post “Debt Consolidation vs. Chapter 13”]
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
If You're Behind on Payments, We Can Help
Chapter 13 is a powerful tool—but it only works if you file in time. Whether you’re facing foreclosure or just need room to breathe, reach out now.
Call:
774-205-1984
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