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Bankruptcy Process in Michigan

Understanding the Steps in Bankruptcy

There are very specific steps in the bankruptcy process that must be followed before the court will approve your petition. You will be legally required to take the means test, which will determine if you qualify for Chapter 7, the liquidation of non-exempt assets to pay creditors. If the test shows that you have sufficient disposable income to pay back creditors, you will be required to file for bankruptcy under Chapter 13, the restructuring of creditor payment plans.

Other steps in the process include:

When you file for Chapter 7, a bankruptcy trustee will be assigned to your case. After your non-exempt assets have been sold, the trustee will distribute the proceeds to your creditors. In a Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you will meet with your creditors in bankruptcy court, where your repayment plan will be reviewed. Retaining the services of a bankruptcy attorney to assist you with the bankruptcy process is strongly recommended. Bankruptcy laws can be extremely complex and any mistakes or errors in your petition can delay your bankruptcy or even result in a petition denial. A bankruptcy lawyer will ensure you have completed the required steps of the process, and your paperwork is in compliance with state and federal laws.

Retain the Services of a Bankruptcy Lawyer

The more you know about the bankruptcy process and timeline, the easier it will be to decide if you want to take advantage of this legal remedy. My firm, Hensel Law Office, PLLC, has represented individuals from all walks of life seeking bankruptcy protection and can help you decide if bankruptcy is the right solution for your debt problems. This includes individuals in Warren and Sterling Heights, as well as the areas of Madison Heights, Royal Oak, and Clinton Township.

I am a sole practitioner that works closely with each of my clients, and will personally manage every aspect of your bankruptcy case. You will never be passed off to another attorney, paralegal or secretary. As a Michigan bankruptcy lawyer, I strive to provide my clients with outstanding service, and will always be attentive to your needs.

Contact my firm today to learn more about how I can help.

Client Testimonials

  • We have and will continue to recommend you to others in need of a fresh start.

    “Dear Tom, my husband and I wanted to express our deepest thanks for the help you gave us during our embarrassing and stressful time. I was very impressed that you returned every phone call in a timely manner. You were able to explain exactly what was going to happen in words that "we" could understand. You answered every question we threw at you. The whole bankruptcy process from start to finish was complete in the time you told us it would take. Your professionalism yet friendliness made the whole experience for us almost enjoyable... almost! We have and will continue to recommend you to others in need of a fresh start.”

    Melissa

  • Utmost dedication and professionalism.

    “I chose to work with Tom Hensel after meeting with several big name firms in the area. Tom handled my unique situation with the utmost dedication and professionalism. The personal service I received from him made all the difference in my case. My only regret is that I didn't call him first.”

    Craig

  • Tom Hensel is definitely the right attorney to call!

    “I was referred to Tom Hensel by a friend. My first impression was not only was Tom professional but he's so kind and caring too. He helped my husband and I through an embarrassing, scary situation and definitely made it more positive one. He guided us through our options and helped us make the right decision for us which ended up being a chapter 7 bankruptcy. Tom was so knowledgeable and helped us throughout the whole process. He never once made us feel uncomfortable or dumb when we had questions. He was also very easy to get a hold of when questions would come up and would always return our calls and emails promptly. I strongly recommend Tom to anyone going through this kind of financial nightmare. Do yourselves a favor and call him right away. He will help you get on the right path again. Our only mistake was waiting so long to call him!! When we in court waiting our turn all the other attorneys referred to their clients as "The debtors" Tom on the other hand acknowledged us by our names. Little things mean a lot and that left a lasting impression with us. Tom Thank You again for all your help!!”

    Stacy S.

  • Mr. Hensel walked me through every step.

    “I would highly recommend the Hensel Law Office!! Mr. Hensel walked me through every step, got my garnishments stopped very quickly (even got garnished wages returned to me!) and told me what to expect along the way. He answered all of my questions in a very timely manner- no matter what time I sent an email or gave him a phone call. Also, I felt his price was very reasonable compared to some of the other places that I called. Mr. Hensel answered plenty of questions that I had before I even became a client.”

    Carl

  • He is respectful and down to earth with his approach to very complicated legal matters.

    “Hensel Law Office has helped me during a very difficult time in my life. Tom has done a wonderful job with my Chapter 13 case. He always kept in touch with me and explained everything in terms I could understand. I would highly recommend Mr. Hensel to anyone who is facing any bankruptcy filing. He is respectful and down to earth with his approach to very complicated legal matters.”

    Sandra