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Bankruptcy law gives people and businesses overwhelmed by debt a legal path to a fresh start — either by erasing qualifying debts or restructuring them into a manageable plan. Filing also triggers an 'automatic stay' that pauses most collection efforts.
Speak to a bankruptcy lawyer when debts are unpayable, before a foreclosure or wage garnishment, or when collectors are suing you. Filing immediately stops most collection through the automatic stay.
Chapter 7 is usually a flat fee paid before filing; Chapter 13 fees are often partly paid through the court-approved repayment plan. Court filing fees are additional.
