The Law Office of Timothy G. Cook in Marietta, Georgia has helped hundreds of individuals and families in the North Atlanta Metro area file for Chapter 13 bankruptcy protection. As a solo practitioner , I can give every client's case the close attention it deserves.

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy — Protection from creditors
In a Chapter 13 filing, also called a wage earner plan or reorganization of debts, you agree to repay a portion of your debts over a period of 3 to 5 years. The amount of your monthly payments depends on your income and expenses, often 10 to 50 cents on the dollar. As long as you keep up with the payments, any remaining debt is discharged.

Chapter 13 cases are complicated. Chapter 13 is typically used to avoid foreclosure on your house. Trustees want you to commit to pay every available dime to fund your plan. You need good legal representation from an attorney who is still around to handle your case three years later.

As soon as you file under Chapter 13 (or Chapter 7), you are granted an automatic stay against creditors — they can no longer harass you with calls to your home or workplace, and must halt legal actions such as turning you over to a collection agency, garnishment of wages, foreclosure on your house, or repossession of your car. If the creditor continues to go after you, we will go after the creditor for violating the automatic stay.

What About My Credit?
If you are filing for bankruptcy, you doubtless have a bad credit rating already. I help clients plan for post-bankruptcy, so that they can more quickly rebuild good credit. A bankruptcy stays on your record for 7 to 10 years, but after a year or two has little impact on your credit rating or ability to borrow. It is imperative that you come out of this with the ability to get back on your feet financially.

Why Timothy G. Cook?
I have practiced bankruptcy law since 1997 and stay abreast of changes in laws and polices regarding bankruptcy. I can help clients avoid common pitfalls that will result in rejection of their bankruptcy petition or default on a Chapter 13 plan. For instance, it is not wise to transfer assets, charge additional expenses, or alter you tax withholding prior to a bankruptcy filing.

I will explain all the details of personal bankruptcy in a free initial consultation. Life is too short to be saddled forever with massive debt. Contact an experienced Atlanta bankruptcy attorney today to get a fresh start.