While it’s possible to file for Chapter 13 bankruptcy on your own, having an experienced attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. An attorney can help you protect your assets, reduce your debt more effectively, and verify that your plan is both realistic and approved by the court. They can also help translate any legal jargon for you and help keep you on top of deadlines. For trusted guidance and personal attention throughout the process, choose Fear Waddell, P.C.—we can help you pursue a fresh financial start with confidence.
Fresno Chapter 13 Lawyer
Experienced Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Attorneys at your side
Chapter 13 bankruptcy is one of the most common choices individuals make when attempting to settle debts. Whereas Chapter 7 bankruptcy liquidates all non-exempt assets in exchange for the near-total elimination of debt, Chapter 13 is a debt reorganization program. It allows the filer to retain more of their assets and property in exchange for paying off more of their debt. For some individuals with income above the state median, Chapter 13 is their only bankruptcy option.
Why Choose Our Chapter 13 Debt Relief Lawyers in Fresno?
Reasons To Choose Us
- We Have Filed 1,000+ Bankruptcy Cases
- We Genuinely Care About Your Success
- We Provide Free Consumer Case Consultations
- We Are Board Certified Bankruptcy Lawyers
- We Have Handled A Wide Range Of Bankruptcy Cases
- We Fully Understand The Laws Surrounding Your Case
Reach out to our Fresno attorneys at (559) 418-3022 today to learn more about how Chapter 13 bankruptcy can help you in a free consultation!
Is Chapter 13 Right For You?
For those eligible, a Chapter 13 bankruptcy allows you to keep your property and consolidate your debt. For the length of the repayment period, which is between three to five years, your disposable income will be used to repay your creditors. Priority debts such as child support and tax liabilities must be paid in full.
To be eligible for a Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you must:
- Have a regular source of income
- Have less than $1,257,850 in secured debt
- Have less than $419,275 in unsecured debt
- Be up-to-date on your federal and state income tax returns
**Numbers are valid through April 1, 2022**
What Debts Are Eliminated in Chapter 13?
In Chapter 13, you are allowed to restructure your debts through a repayment plan. This allows you to catch up on missing or late payments on your car loan, mortgage, and more. Not all debts are cancelled with this option and keep in mind that you will be paying a portion of these debts. The remaining balances will be discharged when your repayment period is completed.
Examples of nonpriority unsecured debts that may be discharged are:
- Credit card debt
- Lawsuit judgments
- Medical debt
- Old nonpriority income tax obligations
- Personal loans
- Utility bills
How Soon Can You File Chapter 13 Again?
If you’ve filed for Chapter 13 bankruptcy and need to file again, you have to wait for a period of two years from your original file date. Because it is only a two year period, you can file for a second Chapter 13. However you will not be eligible for your second discharge until your first Chapter 13 has closed. Unlike Chapter 7 bankruptcy, there is no limit to how many times you can file.
Contact Fear waddell. p.c. Today!
If you're contemplating bankruptcy, no doubt you have many questions. At Fear Waddell, P.C. we have the answers you’re seeking! Two of our debt relief attorneys are certified specialists in bankruptcy law by the State Bar of California and frequently educate other bankruptcy lawyers. Over the last decade, we've filed more than 1,000 bankruptcy cases in Central California and are eager to put that experience to work for you.
Unsecured debt from credit cards or medical services can be lessened or eliminated altogether. To learn more about what Chapter 13 can do for you, talk to a debt relief attorney at Fear Waddell, P.C.
Commonly Asked Questions
What are the advantages of filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy?
Filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy offers several advantages over other forms of bankruptcy. Unlike Chapter 7, which involves liquidation of assets, Chapter 13 allows you to keep your property while reorganizing your debt. Additionally, your repayment plan can span three to five years, making payment more manageable. It also protects against harassment from creditors, offering you peace of mind during a challenging financial period. With our experienced attorneys in Fresno, you can navigate this process with confidence.
Do I need an attorney to file Chapter 13 bankruptcy?
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- What is the Chapter 13 Timeline?
- Modifying Mortgages in Chapter 13
- Should I File a Chapter 7 or a Chapter 13 Bankruptcy?
The initial consultation is free, so dial (559) 418-3022 today to speak with a Chapter 13 attorney in Fresno!

Reasons to choose Fear Waddell, P.C.
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Board Certified Bankruptcy Attorneys
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Free Consumer Consultations
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1,000+ Bankruptcy Case Filings
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Decades of Combined Legal Experience

Testimonials
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“I am a senior citizen and Gabriel took me by hand, guided me through the process of bankruptcy with patience, caring and most of all he cared about my feelings and the stressful time I was going through.”
- Former Client -
“If Bankruptcy is absolutely your only option and Dave Ramsey's program is too far out of sight, or in my case, a start-up business gone sour, I would HIGHLY recommend Gabe Waddell and the staff over at Fear Law Group.”
- Former Client -
“He's very professional, informative, answered whatever questions I had, a great listener and returned phone calls promptly.”
- Sandi -
“From the moment we started this, though, Peter Fear and the staff there made us feel comfortable and removed the worry and confusion that we were expecting would overwhelm us.”
- Gerone -
“Peter was a consummate professional, advising me on the process and guiding me through the steps. He answered every question quickly and clearly, which gave me the utmost confidence that my decisions were the correct ones to make.”
- Former Client

Our firm will go the extra mile in order to exceed your expectations. Contact us to discuss your case.