Jameskeenanlaw

Bankruptcy help in California & Sacramento

Bankruptcy Guidance in California from the Law Office of James L. Keenan

Since 1995, attorney James L. Keenan has provided personal, one-on-one service to clients who need dependable legal help when it matters most. Reach out for a free consultation to discuss your situation.

Law Office of James L. Keenan in Sacramento, California
Personal service since 1995
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Key Facts About Bankruptcy in California

Bankruptcy is controlled by federal law, but the exemptions that determine which assets you can keep in California can differ from the rules in other states. Advice that applies to a friend or relative in another state may not apply to you here. That is why the first step is to consult an experienced California bankruptcy attorney. Bankruptcy is a specialized and complex area of law, and mistakes can carry serious consequences, so it is not a task for someone without experience.

Should You File for Bankruptcy?

If you are asking yourself this question, you are likely facing several overlapping concerns, and it helps to speak with an experienced attorney who can guide you toward the right decision. Filing is a significant step, but the relief it can provide may also be substantial. During your consultation, we will review your unique circumstances and recommend the best course of action, including which bankruptcy option fits your financial situation.

Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 Bankruptcy

Our practice focuses on Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Each name comes from the chapter of the federal Bankruptcy Code that governs it.

  • Chapter 7 is the most common form of bankruptcy for individuals. Often called "liquidation bankruptcy," it involves the court selling assets to raise cash to pay creditors. In most cases, all assets can be protected or exempted.
  • Chapter 13 is known as "reorganization bankruptcy." The debtor keeps all assets and repays creditors over a three-to-five-year period. There are limits on how much debt a Chapter 13 case can cover.

Common Bankruptcy Questions

How long does a bankruptcy case take?
The timeline depends on the type of bankruptcy you choose. In a Chapter 7 case, debts may be discharged in as little as three to four months. A Chapter 13 case, because of its payment plan structure, can take up to five years.
What is an automatic stay, and how does it work?
When you file for bankruptcy protection, the federal court issues a notice of automatic stay that stops creditors from pursuing the debts you owe them.

Read More Bankruptcy FAQs

Contact the Law Offices of James L. Keenan

2600 H St., Sacramento, CA 95816
Phone: 916-448-6923
Fax: 916-442-6524
Email: [email protected]
Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Evening appointments are available.

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COVID-19 Update: We Are Open

My office remains open during the pandemic. Remote consultations and in-person meetings with social distancing are available. I can meet with you in person, by phone, FaceTime, Zoom, or another remote application. Court filings and appearances are also remote, so your entire case can be handled from the safety of your home.

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