Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Lawyer in Murfreesboro

Empowering Financial Fresh Starts in Murfreesboro, TN

Dealing with overwhelming debt can be one of the most stressful experiences a person can face. If you are a resident of Murfreesboro or Rutherford County struggling with harassing creditor calls, the threat of home foreclosure, or wage garnishment, it's easy to feel like you are out of options. The pressure can be immense, but it is important to know that you are not alone, and there is a legal path forward.

Chapter 13 bankruptcy is a powerful tool provided by federal law specifically designed to help individuals with a regular income get control of their finances. It is not a sign of failure; it is a strategic step toward financial stability. At Flexer Law, our dedicated legal team has been helping Murfreesboro residents navigate the bankruptcy process for years. We provide compassionate guidance and effective legal representation to help you protect your assets, stop creditor harassment, and get the fresh start you deserve. You don't have to carry the weight of debt by yourself. 

Contact a skilled Murfreesboro Chapter 13 bankruptcy attorney at Flexer Law today to schedule a free, confidential consultation and learn about your options.

What is Chapter 13 Bankruptcy?

Often called a "wage earner's plan," Chapter 13 bankruptcy allows individuals to reorganize their debts into a single, manageable payment plan that lasts for three to five years. Unlike Chapter 7 bankruptcy, which involves liquidating non-exempt assets, Chapter 13 is designed for those who have a steady income and want to keep their property, especially their homes and vehicles.

You may be a good candidate for Chapter 13 bankruptcy in Tennessee if you:

• Are facing foreclosure on your home and want to catch up on missed payments.
• Are behind on your car payments and want to avoid repossession.
• Have valuable assets that would not be protected in a Chapter 7 filing.
• Do not qualify for Chapter 7 because your income is above the state's median level.

An experienced Chapter 13 bankruptcy lawyer in Murfreesboro can analyze your unique financial situation and determine if this is the right path for you.

The Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Process in Murfreesboro

Understanding the steps involved can make the idea of filing for bankruptcy less intimidating. At Flexer Law, we guide our Murfreesboro clients through every stage of the bankruptcy process.

Step 1: Pre-Bankruptcy Credit Counseling and Filing the Petition

Before you can file, you must complete a credit counseling course from an approved agency. Afterward, we will prepare and file your bankruptcy petition and other necessary paperwork with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Tennessee.

Step 2: The Power of the Automatic Stay

The moment your petition is filed, an "automatic stay" goes into effect. This is a court order that immediately stops most collection activities against you. It legally prohibits creditors from calling you, sending letters, garnishing your wages, repossessing your car, or proceeding with a foreclosure on your Murfreesboro home.

Step 3: Crafting Your Repayment Plan

We will work with you to create a feasible repayment plan based on your income, expenses, and the types of debt you have. This plan details how your disposable income will be distributed to your creditors over the next 36 to 60 months.

Step 4: The 341 Meeting of Creditors

About a month after filing, you will attend a "341 Meeting of Creditors." Despite the name, creditors rarely appear. You will meet with the bankruptcy trustee assigned to your case to review your petition and repayment plan under oath. An attorney from Flexer Law will be right by your side during this meeting.

Step 5: Plan Confirmation and Completion

After the 341 meeting, the court will hold a hearing to confirm your repayment plan. Once confirmed, you will continue making your monthly payments for the duration of the plan. After you have successfully completed all payments, the court will grant you a discharge, wiping out any remaining eligible unsecured debts.

How Chapter 13 Helps You Achieve Financial Stability

Chapter 13 is more than just a legal process; it's a structured path back to financial health. By consolidating your debts and protecting your most important assets, you can regain control and build a more secure future. The primary benefits include:

Stopping Foreclosure: You can catch up on your past-due mortgage payments over the life of your plan, allowing you to keep your home.

Preventing Repossession: Chapter 13 can stop a vehicle repossession and may even allow you to reduce the principal balance on your car loan through a "cramdown."

Managing Debt: All of your debts are rolled into a single monthly payment, making your finances predictable and easier to manage.

Debt Forgiveness: At the end of a successful plan, any remaining balance on your unsecured debts, such as credit card bills and medical debt, is discharged forever.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I really keep my house and my car if I file for Chapter 13?

Yes, this is one of the primary benefits of Chapter 13. The plan is specifically designed to allow you to catch up on secured debts like mortgages and car loans over time, helping you keep your most valuable assets.

What is the main difference between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy?

Chapter 7 is a liquidation bankruptcy where non-exempt assets are sold to pay creditors, and it is typically over in a few months. Chapter 13 is a reorganization bankruptcy where you repay a portion of your debts over three to five years through a structured plan, allowing you to keep your assets.

How is my monthly payment amount determined in a Chapter 13 plan?

Your payment is based on your disposable income—what's left after subtracting your necessary living expenses from your monthly earnings. The plan must also pay certain creditors in full. An attorney can help calculate an accurate and affordable payment.

Will I have to go to court in Murfreesboro for my bankruptcy case?

Most Chapter 13 filers do not have to appear before a judge. You will need to attend the 341 Meeting of Creditors, which is overseen by a bankruptcy trustee, not a judge. Your lawyer will be with you for this meeting.

How long will a Chapter 13 bankruptcy stay on my credit report?

A Chapter 13 bankruptcy can remain on your credit report for up to seven years from the filing date. However, many people begin rebuilding their credit and see their scores improve long before it is removed.

Take the first step toward a brighter financial future

By scheduling your free consultation, you are taking control of your debt situation. The experienced and compassionate team at Flexer Law is here to help you understand your legal options, protect your assets, and build a clear strategy for moving forward. Let us put our knowledge of the Murfreesboro bankruptcy process to work for you.

Call us today at (615) 805-6374 to speak with a trusted Murfreesboro Chapter 13 bankruptcy lawyer.