Boise Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Attorney

At Foley Freeman, PLLC, our Boise Chapter 7 bankruptcy attorney has the experience that you can trust when it matters most. We invest time, resources, and attention to detail into each and every case. Many people run into serious financial challenges. Chapter 7 may be the best path for finding a solution for the long term. If you have any questions or concerns about the Chapter 7 bankruptcy process, we are here to help. Non-judgmental guidance and support are available. Contact our Boise bankruptcy lawyer today for a fully confidential, no obligation initial case review.

What is Chapter 7 Bankruptcy?

A Chapter 7 bankruptcy is a liquidation bankruptcy. The process is designed for people who cannot realistically repay unsecured debts, including things like credit cards, medical bills, or personal loans. A trustee is appointed to gather and sell non-exempt assets. The proceeds (if there are any, which is not always the case) will then be distributed to creditors in an orderly manner.

Notably, Idaho law allows debtors to protect certain property through state exemptions, including a homestead, one vehicle, and many common household goods. For that reason, most Chapter 7 bankruptcy cases in Boise result in little or no asset liquidation because exemptions protect the bulk of personal property. The process can lead to a true financial fresh start.

An Overview of Eligibility Requirements for Chapter 7 in Idaho

Here is a challenge: Not everyone who is struggling financially in Boise or elsewhere in Ada County can file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy protection. The most important requirement is the means test. Here is a general overview of how it works:

Chapter 7 Means Test: The test compares the household income of the bankruptcy filer to the Idaho median for a family of that size. If income is above the median, allowable expenses are deducted to determine whether there is enough disposable income to repay debts. If a person’s income is too high after adjustments are made, they cannot use Chapter 7.

Note: Chapter 7 bankruptcy filers must complete a credit counseling course from an approved provider within 180 days before filing.

Know How the Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Process Works in Idaho

The Chapter 7 bankruptcy process begins with filing a petition, schedules of assets and liabilities, and statements of income and expenses with the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Idaho. There is a division of the court in Boise. Once the petition is filed, an automatic stay will be put in place, and it will immediately halt collection efforts, foreclosure, and wage garnishments.

A trustee is appointed to review documents and hold a meeting of creditors (the “341 meeting”), where the debtor answers questions under oath. If there are non-exempt assets, the trustee liquidates them and distributes proceeds to creditors according to federal priority rules. Most Chapter 7 cases in Idaho last for somewhere between four months and six months.

How Our Boise, ID Business Bankruptcy Lawyers Can Help

Chapter 7 bankruptcy cases are complicated. It is normal to feel stressed out, even overwhelmed. At Foley Freeman, PLLC, we put clients first. You can learn more about the firm and reach out to us with specific questions about your financial situation. Among other things, our Boise Chapter 7 bankruptcy lawyers will:

Listen to your story and answer questions about Chapter 7 bankruptcy;
Help you gather and prepare all supporting financial records;
Handle all of the Chapter 7 bankruptcy paperwork; and
Develop a personalized strategy focused on getting you the best results.

Chapter 7 in Boise: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Will I lose everything if I file Chapter 7 in Boise?

No, probably not. In fact, Idaho exemptions protect much of your property. The homestead exemption shields up to $175,000 in home equity. Further, other exemptions cover vehicles and household goods. You may not lose any assets at all.

What debts are wiped out in Chapter 7?

Most unsecured debts, such as credit cards and medical bills, are discharged. Certain debts like child support, student loans, and recent taxes remain. A Boise Chapter 7 bankruptcy lawyer can help you get everything sorted out.

Do I have to go to court for Chapter 7 in Idaho?

You usually do not appear before a judge. Most debtors only attend the § 341 meeting of creditors run by the trustee. A court hearing is required only if disputes arise.

Contact Our Boise, ID Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Lawyer Today

At Foley Freeman, PLLC, our Boise personal bankruptcy attorney has the skills and experience to handle Chapter 7 bankruptcy cases. It is our mission to help you find the best path forward. If you have any specific questions or concerns about Chapter 7 bankruptcy, please do not hesitate to contact us today for a completely confidential, no obligation initial appointment. We provide Chapter 7 bankruptcy representation in Boise, Ada County, and all across the region.

Testimonials

Mark Freeman and the Team at Foley Freeman have assisted my family & me with personal and business matters for many years. They have always provided a service that is friendly and welcoming, while implementing a professional, diligent service. They have assisted us with matters such as defense, estate planning, Buy Sell Agreements, liquidation negotiation and purchases, real estate ventures, and lien filings. I would highly recommend the team at Foley Freeman for any of your legal needs.

Keith Lewis

I’ve had the pleasure of working with the attorneys at Foley Freeman PLLC for more than twenty years. They have professionally and successfully represented my interests in personal and business matters, including assisting with business purchase and sale agreements, contract reviews, estate planning, and arbitration issues. I recommend them without hesitation.

Steve Sedlacek

Mark Freeman is our most trusted attorney for all of our estate planning needs. He and his staff were of the utmost professionalism and walked my wife and me through all the steps to make sure we had our assets, including properties in multiple states, our life insurance, and money protected for our children and future family legacy. He answered every question we asked, and even addressed issues that could come up that we hadn’t thought of. I highly recommend Mark for any estate planning needs.

Steve Angiolini

Foley Freeman was amazing to work with! We have never needed legal counseling before and contacted them with time-sensitive needs. They were very kind, eager, and thoroughly explained everything to us. We were not pressured to make decisions or made to feel that our “small” legal issue was a waste of their time. Highly recommend their services to anyone with any legal needs.

Candice M. Sumner

I just want to say thank you. This was the first time I have ever hired a lawyer, and I must say that I made an excellent choice when I went with you. You were very prompt in responding to my queries and did an excellent job. I will definitely recommend you to anyone in need of a lawyer.

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