Due to COVID-19, we are offering consultations via telephone and video conference. In office consultations are also available via appointment with mask and social distancing requirements observed. We are open and here to help people in these trying times. Please don’t hesitate to call us if you have any questions! Learn More.

Get Financial Freedom Personalized & Skilled Representation

Michigan Credit Counseling Attorney

Who is required to undergo credit counseling in Michigan?

If you have made the decision to file for bankruptcy in Michigan, it is important to understand that you will be required to complete numerous pre-filing requirements before submitting your petition to the court. In fact, your case could be dismissed or rejected if you fail to complete an approved credit counseling course within the 180 days leading up to your filing—as this became a mandatory requirement for all personal bankruptcies in October of 2005. For this reason, the Michigan bankruptcy attorney at Hensel Law Office, PLLC asks you to take the time to adequately prepare for the process ahead. While this may seem like nothing more than an inconvenience, credit counseling is a crucial part of any Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy case.

Understanding the Basics of Credit Counseling

In order to successfully request a discharge of debt from the bankruptcy court, you will need to first undergo a credit counseling course that has been approved by the U.S. Trustee's Office. It typically costs about $50 for a 60 to 90-minute session, but you can request a fee waiver if you cannot afford to pay. Once you have selected a credit counseling agency, you can complete the course in person, over the phone or online—wherein you will discuss all possible alternatives to bankruptcy, evaluate your finances and develop a personal budget plan. At the conclusion of the session, you will receive a certificate of completion that will need to be included in your bankruptcy petition. If this certificate is not submitted with the rest of your paperwork, your case could be rejected.

How do I know if the credit counseling agency is approved?

While you can find a credit counseling agency that has been approved by the U.S. Trustee's Office by signing up through a reputable online service, our firm recommends that you move forward under the advisement of a Michigan bankruptcy lawyer. In doing so, you can ensure that your case is not dismissed or subjected to any unnecessary delays. For this reason, we encourage you to get started today by contacting our office for a free consultation. Our firm welcomes the opportunity to walk you through the bankruptcy process step by step, so do not hesitate to reach out today.

When you call at (888) 258-0651, you will have the opportunity to schedule an appointment at your own convenience—even if it's in the evening or on the weekend.

Client Testimonials

  • Thank you very much for getting us through this very hard time in our lives.

    “I just wanted to thank you very much, for getting us through this very hard time in our lives. You did an excellent job. If anyone I know is in need of a lawyer, we will surely give them your name. Again thanks.”

    John and Linda

  • You made a difficult experience so much easier.

    “Back a few years ago, you helped me through a bankruptcy. I still tell people how you made a difficult experience so much easier, with your clarity, support, and friendly approach to the law. I'm still very appreciative for all your help – it really helped to pull me out of a difficult place and put my life back on track.”

    Eric

  • We couldn't have gotten through this difficult process without Tom.

    “We couldn't have gotten through this difficult process without Tom. We evaluated a number of bankruptcy attorneys and found Tom to be the most knowledgeable and compassionate. He takes the time to explain all aspects of the process and answers your questions thoroughly and promptly both in person and via email. He knows the law and ensures that you receive the best treatment possible depending on your particular situation.”

    T & J

  • Professional, competent, empathetic attorney.

    “My husband and I were forced into a position to file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. We were devastated and mortified that we had to choose that route, but Tom eased our stress about the filing and court hearing process, as he thoroughly explained what Chapter 7 entails, as well as exactly what to expect during and after the filing process; he was accurate on each point that he advised us on. Tom also kept in frequent contact with us and responded quickly to any questions or concerns that we had while we worked with him. Tom's expertise and tact was invaluable for us, and we will absolutely recommend him to any of our friends and relatives that may find themselves in similar positions to ours. Thank you, Tom, for your dedicated help during this process.”

    EJO

  • He always responded quickly and intelligently.

    “Mr. Hensel made a difficult and uncomfortable situation as easy as possible for me. He always responded quickly and intelligently to my questions and never made me feel as if I were bothering him. He explained the unknown aspects of bankruptcy, the court system, and my options in clearly understandable terms. I felt confident that he was handling my case in the best possible manner and in my best possible interests. I feel lucky to have found the Hensel Law Office and I never hesitate to refer others who could use assistance - because I know they will get superior service and help.”

    Kelly