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Filing Bankruptcy for the Second Time

Can I File for Bankruptcy More Than Once?

Michigan Bankruptcy AttorneyMany people are surprised to learn that you can file for bankruptcy more than once. If you are experiencing financial problems and were previously granted a bankruptcy, our Michigan bankruptcy lawyer can make sure that you are fully informed of the laws pertaining to a second filing and how they apply to your particular situation.

The same first-time procedures for filing apply to your second time as well, including:

  • Credit counseling class before your petition is filed
  • A bankruptcy hearing
  • Completing a financial management class after your hearing and before your case is officially

Need to file bankruptcy a second time? Reach out to my office in Sterling Heights for a free consultation on your options.

How Often Can You File for Bankruptcy in Michigan?

When filing for a second bankruptcy in Michigan, different waiting periods apply depending on your past and current filing.

When filing for bankruptcy a second time, the following waiting periods apply:

  • Previous Chapter 7 filing and filing again: 8 Years
  • Previous Chapter 13 filing and filing again: 4 Years
  • Previous Chapter 13 filing, now filing Chapter 7: 6 Years
  • Previous Chapter 7 filing, now filing Chapter 13: 2 Years

You must also meet specific income requirements, and you must not have been barred previously by the bankruptcy court.

The bankruptcy process can be complex, especially if you are filing for a second time. Not only will you need to meet the requirements for a second filing, but your creditors may also be more difficult to work with. You should also expect the court to conduct a thorough review of your finances before a second bankruptcy is approved.

Attentive Service Through Your Second Bankruptcy Filing

As a Michigan bankruptcy attorney, I will work with you one-on-one, and make sure you are in full compliance with filing statutes before your petition is submitted. My firm assists individuals Sterling Heights and Warren, as well as in Madison Heights, Royal Oak and Clinton Township.

I provide my clients with a very high level of service and can discuss how to proceed with a second filing during a free initial consultation.

Client Testimonials

  • 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

  • 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

  • Sincerest thanks for all of your help in affording me what I consider a real "fresh start."

    “I wanted to give you my sincerest thanks for all of your help in affording me what I consider a real "fresh start". My divorce was unfortunate but definitely a needed change for the better. However, the financial side of things still seemed to keep that past linked, which makes this an enormous weight lifted. I just can't believe the impact it's made on my outlook with...everything.I will be sure to keep your business cards handy to distribute along with highly favorable words of recommendation should the needs arise.Thank you again for your time and professional guidance.”

    Michelle

  • 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

  • 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