Frequently Asked Questions
About Bankruptcy

Bankruptcy can be very confusing, and hard to understand. It is the goal of Maryland Bankruptcy Attorney, Daniel J. Guenther, to make sure you understand each step of the bankruptcy process, and most importantly, make sure that it is stress free.

To help you better understand the process of filing for bankruptcy, The Law Offices of Daniel J. Guenther created a list of Frequently Asked Questions About Bankruptcy.

1. What is the difference between Chapter 7, 13, and 11 Bankruptcy?

Chapter 7 bankruptcy, also known as “liquidation bankruptcy,” occurs when an individual or business asks the court to pardon all debts in exchange for the individual or businesses’ assets, or property. If a Chapter 7 bankruptcy filing is successful, the debtor is no longer responsible for repaying a creditor for any discharged debt. To learn more about Chapter 7 bankruptcy, click here.

Chapter 13 bankruptcy, also known as “reorganization bankruptcy,” is asking the court to grant the debtor an affordable and manageable repayment plan. The debts are reorganized in a manner that makes it possible to repay creditors. Chapter 13 bankruptcy repayment plans may only require the debtor to pay a fraction of what is owed, or nothing at all. To learn more about Chapter 13 bankruptcy, click here.

Chapter 11 bankruptcy is generally utilized by businesses that are facing difficult financial hardships. Successfully filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy allows a business to reorganize their finances while still operating. The business or organization must propose a plan to repay its creditors in accordance to bankruptcy court guidelines.

2. What debts can be eliminated by filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy?
Generally, most debts can be eliminated or discharged through a successful Chapter 7 bankruptcy filing. These debts are also known as “unsecured debts,” or “dischargeable debts.”

Common dischargeable debts include, but are not limited to:

  • Credit card
  • Medical bills
  • Repossessions
  • Unpaid rent
  • Utility bills
  • Various loans
  • Auto accident claims
  • Consumer debt
  • Various judgments and collections
3. Will my bankruptcy appear on my credit report after it has been discharged?

Yes. A bankruptcy will appear on your credit report for 10 years. This is not something to worry about. Having a bankruptcy discharge on your credit report will not stop you from being eligible to purchase large items such as a home or car.

4. Can I get a new credit after filing for bankruptcy?

Definitely. It may actually be easier for you to obtain new credit after filing for bankruptcy. If you are burdened by financial obligations you owe, there are numerous debts listed on your credit report. After you successfully file for bankruptcy, your debts will be eliminated and there will be no sign of your debts on your credit report.

To a credit company, they see no outstanding debts and see that you have a clean slate. This makes you a desirable candidate. A bankruptcy attorney in Maryland can help you determine the most beneficial ways to obtain a new credit after bankruptcy.

5. If I file for bankruptcy, will I lose my assets or home?

Filing for bankruptcy does not mean you will lose your home, or valuable assets that you would not like to lose. Bankruptcy exists as a means to relieve individuals or businesses of their financial burdens, not for them to lose all of their assets. The Law Offices of Daniel J. Guenther have successfully represented individuals for over 25 years in bankruptcy cases. In the majority of these cases, clients were able to keep their valued assets including their home, and car.

Each and every bankruptcy case is unique, and Maryland Bankruptcy Attorney, Daniel J. Guenther, will work with you to analyze your case to ensure you keep your home.

6. Why do I need a Bankruptcy Attorney? Can’t I file for bankruptcy alone?

Filing for bankruptcy can be very complex, and confusing. Hiring a bankruptcy attorney would be to your advantage. With the help of an experienced bankruptcy lawyer, you will be able to file for bankruptcy without any stress, fully knowing that the right steps are being taken on your behalf. Your questions and concerns about your filing will be answered by an expert in the field.

A bankruptcy attorney in Maryland can serve as your representative in the bankruptcy court, in front of a bankruptcy trustee or judge. All threatening communications from your creditor will be managed by your attorney, and you will no longer have to be burdened by your finances.

If you or a loved one is facing economic and financial hardships, contact Maryland Chapter 7 and 13 bankruptcy attorney, Daniel J. Guenther, (301) 475-3106. With over 42 years of experience, The Law Offices of Daniel J. Guenther can help you determine if filing for bankruptcy is the right step for you. We have office hours at both our Leonardtown and Waldorf offices.

Nothing on this website is intended to be legal advice. Contact me for legal advice. Our past success is no guarantee of your success.

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(301) 475-3106

Hours of Operation

Monday - Friday

8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Waldorf Address

3261 Old Washington Rd
Hamilton Center Building II, Suite 2020
Waldorf, MD 20602

Leonardtown Address

41620 Fenwick Street, Leonardtown, MD 20650

Service Area

We represent clients throughout Maryland, including those in Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Harford County, Howard County, Montgomery County, Maryland’s Western Counties, Prince George’s County, Queen Anne’s County, Southern Maryland, as well as the communities of Catonsville, Essex, Halethorpe, Middle River, Rosedale, Gwynn Oak, Brooklandville, Dundalk, Pikesville, Nottingham, Windsor Mill, Lutherville, Timonium, Sparrows Point, Ridgewood, and Elkridge.

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