Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
Often called a "fresh start." It can wipe out many debts, like credit cards, medical bills and personal loans, usually within a few months. You must qualify based on your income.
Southern California Bankruptcy Attorneys
Get out from under your debt and start fresh.
Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy help for people and families across Southern California. We'll explain your options in plain language and help you choose the path that fits.
60+
years of combined legal experience
Bankruptcy can help you:
- Stop foreclosure
- Stop collection calls
- Stop wage garnishment
- Stop bank levies
- Stop creditor lawsuits
As soon as you hire us, we stop the calls.
What We Do
How we can help
Every situation is different. At your free consultation we look at your income, your debts, and what you want to keep, then walk you through the options.
Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
A court-approved plan to repay some of your debt over three to five years. It can help you catch up on missed house or car payments and keep your property.
Stop Foreclosure
Filing can pause a scheduled foreclosure sale. Chapter 13 may then let you catch up on missed mortgage payments over time so you can stay in your home.
Stop Wage Garnishment
If a creditor is taking money from your paycheck or bank account, filing can stop most garnishments and levies and give you room to breathe.
The Process
How it works
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Free consultation
Meet with us by phone, by video, or at our San Diego office. Tell us what's going on and get straight answers about your options.
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We prepare and file
We gather your paperwork, prepare your case, and file it with the bankruptcy court. Payment plans are available for attorney fees.
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Your fresh start
With your attorney by your side, you'll have a short meeting with the bankruptcy trustee. Then you can stop looking back and start building your future.
60+
years of combined legal experience
Why Choose Us
Experienced help, close to home
- Experienced. Joseph LaCosta has 43 years of legal experience. Jeffery Menard has 19.
- Affordable. Your first consultation is free, and payment plans are available.
- Convenient. Meet by phone, by video, or at our office on Broadway in San Diego.
- Bilingual. Hablamos español.
Our Attorneys
Meet the attorneys
Two independent attorneys, two different styles, and the same goal: getting you a fresh start.
JM
Jeffery R. Menard
Attorney at Law
Jeff has spent 19 years helping people get out from under debt, and he still enjoys going toe-to-toe with creditors. He's the younger of the two attorneys (and, he'd like us to mention, the handsome one). When a creditor pushes, Jeff pushes back, so you don't have to.
Off the clock, Jeff is at home with his three dogs, who make sure he never takes himself too seriously.
JL
Joseph C. LaCosta
Attorney at Law
Joe has been practicing law for 43 years, and it shows. He's calm, steady, and never in a rush. Where Jeff likes a good fight, Joe prefers a firm handshake. He believes a measured, diplomatic approach with creditors is often the smartest path forward.
Joe is a devoted family man, so he understands what's at stake when your family's home and future are on the line.
Questions
Common questions about bankruptcy
Should I file Chapter 7 or Chapter 13?
It depends on your income, your property, and your goals. Chapter 7 wipes out many debts quickly, but you must pass an income test. Chapter 13 sets up a payment plan and is often used to save a home or car. We'll help you figure out which one fits at your free consultation.
Will I lose my house or car?
Not necessarily. California law protects a set amount of home equity, vehicle value, retirement savings, and household belongings. These protections are called "exemptions." Many people who file keep their home and car. We'll review what you own before you file.
Will the collection calls stop?
Yes. As soon as you hire us, we let your creditors know you have an attorney, and they must contact us instead of you. Once your case is filed, a court order called the "automatic stay" also stops most lawsuits, garnishments, and other collection.
Do I have to go to court?
Probably not. Most people who file bankruptcy never stand in front of a judge. Instead, you'll have a quick meeting with the bankruptcy trustee, usually over Zoom, and your attorney will be right there with you.
What debts can't bankruptcy erase?
Some debts usually stay, including child support, alimony, most student loans, recent tax debts, and criminal fines. Chapter 13 can sometimes let you pay these over time.
How much does it cost?
There is a court filing fee plus attorney fees. We explain every cost up front at your free consultation, and payment plans are available.
What should I bring to my consultation?
If you have them, bring recent pay stubs, your last two tax returns, recent bank statements, and any bills, collection letters, or court papers. Don't worry if you're missing some. We can start without them.
How will bankruptcy affect my credit?
A bankruptcy can stay on your credit report for up to 10 years (Chapter 7) or 7 years (Chapter 13). But many people are already behind on payments when they file, and they start rebuilding credit once their debts are gone.
Free Consultation
Take the first step today
Call or email us to set up your free consultation by phone, by video, or in person.
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Office
2323 Broadway, Suite 108
San Diego, CA 92102 Get directions
Hablamos Español
Request a free consultation
Pick whatever is easiest for you.
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