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Automatic Stay in Federal Way

The "Automatic Stay" and how it benefits you

Phone calls from creditors can be expected whenever you fall behind on bills. If financial problems multiply, it can lead to unrelenting harassment from debt collectors. Collection agencies often have no problem calling you at home or work, and may even say that if you file for bankruptcy your credit will be ruined and you'll lose everything you own.

Our Federal Way bankruptcy lawyers understand how this incessant pestering can cause confusion and even affect your self worth. However, you can put a stop to the phone calls and eliminate your debt with one decisive action.

When you file for bankruptcy court in Washington State, an automatic stay injunction immediately takes effect. The automatic stay stops all attempts by creditors to collect on debt. They can no longer threaten you, call you, or send you a letter. Even wage garnishments are stopped.

This means that you don't have to wait for a judge to decide on your bankruptcy petition to enjoy the benefits of the automatic stay, and sometimes the filer doesn't even have to qualify for a discharge of debt to experience the advantages.

ALL debt collection is immediately stopped by the automatic stay in Washington. This includes car repossessions, home foreclosures, credit card debt, medical bills, and pay day loans. You can fight back against the ruthless tactics of debt collection agencies with help from our team of Washington bankruptcy lawyers. Contact us today and enjoy the many benefits of the automatic stay.

The automatic stay injunction is the first step toward a more promising financial future
  • The automatic stay injunction puts a stop to debt collection and harassing phone calls
  • If a debt collector violates the injunction, you can be awarded compensation for lawyer's fees and punitive damages
  • The automatic stay injunction may not apply to child support and certain fines
  • Automatic stay is a powerful tool that can help you get back on the right track, and our Federal Way bankruptcy lawyers will help you put it to use

Falling behind on bills and watching debt grow uncontrollably is stressful, but if debt collectors start incessantly hounding you for payment when you don't have money to spare, it may be time to fight back. You have legal rights that protect you from creditor harassment, and filing for bankruptcy may offer you a chance at lasting financial relief.

Contact our Federal Way law office to find out how easy it is to petition the federal court for bankruptcy. When your King County attorney files your bankruptcy case, the automatic stay injunction is initiated. This action immediately stops the aggravation and starts the process of discharging your debt. Clear your head and hit the financial reset button with help from our team of professional Federal Way debt relief attorneys.

The automatic stay, secured debt, and you

Chapter 7 bankruptcy is usually for the discharge of all unsecured debt. In situations involving secured debt (loans backed up by collateral,) you must maintain payments, if possible. With Chapter 13, debt is consolidated into a monthly payment plan. In either situation, property that includes cars or homes must remain insured so the creditor maintains adequate protection in the security of their interest.

How long does the automatic stay last?

Once your debt is discharged your bankruptcy is over and the automatic stay is no longer needed. A discharge permanently eliminates debt. Some varieties of debt may not qualify for discharge, like certain taxes and student loans. In Chapter 13 bankruptcy situations, you are protected from secured debt throughout the full term of the bankruptcy while you make your monthly payments, even if it's not included in your consolidation plan.

Contact our Federal Way legal team for a free consultation and benefit from the automatic stay

Don't let debt collectors harass you because of financial woes that are out of your control. Contact a Federal Way bankruptcy attorney today and get the facts via a free consultation. The automatic stay allows you to enjoy some peace of mind while putting an end to debt collection that includes:

  • Wage garnishments
  • Phones calls
  • Repossessions
  • Foreclosures
  • Law suits
  • License suspensions
  • Placing a judgment lien on real estate
  • Perfecting any kind of lien

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
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