Bankruptcy
When overwhelming debt starts to affect every part of your life, your home, your business, your peace of mind, bankruptcy may be the lifeline you need. At Howland Hess Birnbaum, we help individuals and businesses take back control of their finances through thoughtful, strategic bankruptcy solutions. Whether you’re struggling with credit card debt, medical bills, foreclosure, or business liabilities, we are here to guide you through every step of the process with clarity and care. Our team provides comprehensive support across all major forms of bankruptcy, including Chapter 7, Chapter 13, Chapter 11, and Subchapter V.
Find Financial Relief With Strategic, Client-Focused Bankruptcy Representation
We understand that facing overwhelming debt can be one of the most stressful and uncertain times in your life. Whether you’re worried about losing your home, struggling to keep your business afloat, or feeling buried by credit card or medical debt, you don’t have to face these challenges alone. Our team is here to shoulder the legal burden, helping you evaluate your options and take confident steps toward financial stability. We begin every bankruptcy case with a confidential consultation to understand your unique circumstances and financial goals. From there, we develop a tailored legal strategy that aligns with your needs—whether that means eliminating debt, protecting assets, restructuring a business, or negotiating directly with creditors. Our goal is simple: to help you reclaim control of your finances and your future.
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Our Bankruptcy Services
Every financial situation is different. We offer a full range of bankruptcy services to meet the needs of individuals, families, and business owners seeking debt relief and long-term financial solutions.
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Chapter 7 Bankruptcy (Liquidation): Chapter 7 bankruptcy offers individuals and families a chance to eliminate unsecured debt such as credit card balances, medical bills, and personal loans. If you’re struggling to stay afloat financially and don’t see a path forward, Chapter 7 may provide the clean slate you need. We’ll walk you through eligibility requirements, protect your exemptions, and handle the court process so you can focus on rebuilding.
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Chapter 13 Bankruptcy (Reorganization): For individuals with a steady income who want to keep their home, car, or other assets, Chapter 13 allows for the reorganization of debt into a manageable repayment plan over 3 to 5 years. We help you craft a feasible plan, stop foreclosure proceedings, and work toward a structured, stress-free recovery—all while protecting what matters most.
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Chapter 11 & Subchapter V Bankruptcy (Business Restructuring): Business owners facing cash flow challenges, lawsuits, or creditor pressure may benefit from Chapter 11 or Subchapter V bankruptcy. These options provide tools to reorganize debts, maintain operations, and stabilize your business for the future. We work closely with business owners to develop a custom plan of reorganization, negotiate with creditors, and navigate the court’s requirements—all with the goal of preserving your company’s value and longevity.
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Adversary Proceedings & Contested Matters: Not all bankruptcy cases are straightforward. If your case involves disputes with creditors, allegations of fraud, or other contested issues, our team is prepared to defend your rights in bankruptcy court. We represent clients in adversary proceedings and contested matters, offering aggressive legal advocacy backed by experience and litigation skill.
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Creditor Negotiations & Debt Settlement: In many cases, we can resolve financial issues outside of court through strategic negotiations with creditors. Whether you’re seeking to settle a debt, avoid foreclosure, or pause collection activity, we work to protect your interests and reach agreements that provide long-term financial relief.
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Foreclosure Defense & Asset Protection: Bankruptcy can be a powerful tool to stop foreclosure and protect your home or business assets. We act quickly to file emergency petitions, halt collection efforts, and help you explore options like loan modifications or repayment plans that preserve your ownership and equity.
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Student Loan & Tax Debt Solutions: Although not all student loan or tax debts are dischargeable, there may be options within or outside of bankruptcy to reduce, restructure, or manage these obligations. We assess your specific situation and provide honest guidance on the most effective legal path forward.

Over 100 years of Trusted Guidance
Take the First Step Toward Justice
If you or a loved one has been injured due to someone else’s negligence, don’t wait to seek the legal support you need. At Howland Hess Birnbaum, we are here to help you pursue justice and financial relief, so you can focus on your recovery and reclaim your future.