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About Us

Our Tacoma bankruptcy lawyers will explain what you should expect

There aren't many people living in Tacoma who have an in-depth knowledge of bankruptcy law, and there is plenty of misinformation to go around. These false impressions about the process of filing for bankruptcy makes some people hesitant to consider it, even when they face insurmountable money problems. Most Washington residents think bankruptcy is far worse than it actually is.

The negativity surrounding bankruptcy is often instigated by creditors who do not want you to know that this powerful tool was created by the government as a means of helping people escape uncontrollable debt. Anyone can suddenly face a dire financial situation through no fault of their own. This never ending cycle of growing debt puts a drain on the nation's economy because it prevents hard working people from maintaining their role as active consumers.

Bankruptcy is just like hitting a financial reset button, and it will stop harassing phone calls from creditors, while allowing you to get a fresh start. If you're thinking bankruptcy may be the debt relief option you've been looking for, you may want to know how the process unfolds. The following information is a good place to start, and you can get further details by contacting one of our Tacoma bankruptcy attorneys for a free consultation.

Petitioning the bankruptcy court - understanding the process

Most Tacoma residents know little about filing for bankruptcy in Washington, and even more are grossly unaware they have legal rights relative to their finances. Debt collectors hate our Tacoma bankruptcy lawyers because they know that once you secure our professional legal services, you are protected from any and all harassment. Before taking the next step, review the following helpful information that outlines the process from start to finish...

  • Schedule a free consultation with a Tacoma bankruptcy lawyer. Taking the first step is often the most difficult part of the bankruptcy process, but once you reach out to us you will quickly discover that bankruptcy is a powerful tool designed to help you achieve debt relief. If your creditors tell you that bankruptcy will cause you to lose everything or destroy your credit, they are not telling you the truth.

    Your bankruptcy lawyer in Pierce County will need information about your income, lawsuits, taxes, bills, and foreclosure papers. Your attorney will then thoroughly analyze your financial situation and let you know if bankruptcy is possible, and if it makes sense for you and your family. Our bankruptcy lawyers in Tacoma will provide you with an honest appraisal of your situation based on the law.

  • Making your decision to file. If you choose to file for bankruptcy, your lawyer will immediately begin preparing your case. If you're getting any harassing calls from debt collectors, let your lawyer know and they can take the call on your behalf.

  • Follow-up appointments with your Pierce County bankruptcy attorney. Bankruptcies require the preparation of plenty of paperwork. We will prepare your legal documents and then you can simply visit our law office, and go over the details.

  • Signing the papers. Once the paperwork is ready, you will meet with your bankruptcy lawyer in Tacoma to sign the documents. If something doesn't make sense to you, we will take the time to make sure you fully comprehend every detail.

  • Filing your bankruptcy case. Bankruptcy cases in the Tacoma district are handled by the US District Court, which is where your case will be filed. If debt collectors are still attempting to contact you in any way, this is when they have to stop entirely. The automatic stay injunction makes it illegal for them to send you any bills, call you, sue you in court, or make any attempt to garnish your wages. Filing for bankruptcy in Washington also stops foreclosures, the IRS, and car repossessions.

  • Meeting with creditors. Somewhere between 30 to 45 days after you file for bankruptcy in the State of Washington you will attend a Meeting of Creditors. Your Tacoma bankruptcy attorney will be by your side to offer you counsel during this meeting, and ensure that you are fully prepared before it takes place.

  • Discharging of your debt. In Chapter 7 bankruptcy cases, it takes about three months after your Meeting with Creditors for all debt to be discharged, and you are fully protected by the court throughout the process. In Chapter 13 situations, the trustee will explain what you need to do to have your consolidated debt payment plan finalized. Keep up with all of your monthly payments throughout the term of the consolidation plan, and your remaining debt will subsequently be discharged.

  • When the process is over. If any creditors try to contact you after your bankruptcy is done, our Tacoma bankruptcy lawyers will make sure they leave you alone.
Why choose our Tacoma debt relief attorneys?

Everyone in our law firm takes bankruptcy cases very seriously, because we routinely see how the devious and unscrupulous practices of debt collection agencies can damage a person's self worth and make their stress levels skyrocket. We take great pride in fighting against these uncaring corporate practices while protecting hard working people who are hurting financially and just hoping for a break.

Filing for bankruptcy in Washington is surprisingly affordable. We also offer flat fee rates so that you never have to worry about additional expenses. Under certain circumstances, your bankruptcy lawyer may even be able to arrange a payment plan.

Our Tacoma law office has discharged a large amount of debt for clients all over Western Washington State. We relish putting an end to harassment from creditors so that our clients can rest easy at night and not have to live in fear of their phone ringing. Most of our clients contact our law office when their financial situation is at its worst, but there is no reason to wait until you've hit rock bottom.

Contact our law office for a free consultation with a Tacoma bankruptcy lawyer who will fight to provide you with the maximum financial relief possible.

Tacoma is an urban port city named after the indigenous people's name of nearby Mount Rainer. Tacoma is located on Puget Sound, and is the third largest city in Washington. Tacoma's geographical position at the western terminus of the Northern Pacific Railroad and deep water harbor makes it a vital Washington transportation hub. Tacoma was “incorporated” as a city in 1875, and is estimated to have more than 200,000 permanent residents.

If you would like more information about the City of Tacoma, please visit the city homepage. This site contains helpful information about the City of Tacoma, including topics concerning how the local government functions. If you're a Pierce County resident, your bankruptcy case will be filed at the United State District Court for the Western District of Washington, which is in the center of downtown Seattle. Your meeting of creditors will be held at the U.S District Courthouse.

Our legal team loves Tacoma and the people who live there. Our Tacoma bankruptcy lawyers are ready to help you determine the best way to seek lasting debt relief, so contact our office today and find out if you qualify.

Client Reviews
★★★★★
Erin Lane is the best attorney I have met by far! I came to her during a very difficult time in my life. I was needing to file a bankruptcy. She was very kind, non-intimidating, and well-understood. She actually came across like a good friend. To this day I still remember and appreciate her (no-stressing approach) I deem Erin qualified for any position having to do with her knowledge in these types of legal matters! Keith D Wilson