At Simon Fitzgerald LLC, we recognize the challenges and anxiety that bankruptcy can bring. Our Monroe bankruptcy attorneys are committed to guiding you through this complex journey, offering professional legal counsel and empathetic assistance at every turn. With expertise in Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy cases, we strive to empower our clients in Monroe to regain control of their financial lives. Whether facing medical bills, repossession threats, or overwhelming credit card debt, we are here to help you navigate the path to financial stability.
MONROE AREA CLIENTS (Serviced by Our Shreveport Office)
While we don’t have a physical office in Monroe, our Shreveport office is fully equipped to serve our Monroe area clients. Our Shreveport office, which services our Monroe area clients, is conveniently located just off of I-49 and I-20 in the heart of the city, making it easily accessible for clients across the region. We prioritize your convenience, offering Phone and Video appointments and accepting documentation via email, fax, text, or mail. If you prefer an in-person meeting, our Shreveport office is always available. Reach us at:
- Address: 4700 Line Avenue, Suite 200, Shreveport, LA 71106
- Phone: 318-868-2600
- Fax: 318-868-8966
- Email: [email protected]
- Hours: M-F: 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM
Directions are available here.
SERVING MONROE AND BEYOND
At Simon Fitzgerald LLC, our Shreveport office is dedicated to serving Monroe and its surrounding areas with exceptional bankruptcy services. We handle cases filed in the Western District of Louisiana, specifically within the “Monroe Division.” The Monroe Division contains the 9th largest city in Louisiana, Monroe, LA. Other notable cities in that division are Bastrop, Farmerville, Grambling, Lake Providence, Pollock, Rayville, Ruston, Tallulah, West Monroe, and Winnsboro.
We also extend our services to Caldwell, East Carroll, Franklin, Jackson, Lincoln, Madison, Morehouse, Ouachita, Richland, Tensas, Union, and West Carroll parishes. Our experienced bankruptcy attorneys are ready to assist you in Monroe or any location within the Monroe Division. We’re committed to guiding you through bankruptcy and helping you achieve financial stability.
We are Louisiana’s oldest bankruptcy law firm, and our attorneys are experts in Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy cases, crafting personalized strategies to address your financial challenges in Monroe and the surrounding areas. We understand the difficulties of bankruptcy and are here to ensure you don’t face them alone. Our commitment to individualized service and our deep understanding of local court procedures make us a reliable choice for bankruptcy services in Monroe and beyond.
OUR EXPERT MONROE, LA BANKRUPTCY LAWYER
Our Monroe LA, bankruptcy lawyer is:
Our bankruptcy attorney servicing Monroe at Simon Fitzgerald LLC is dedicated to providing personalized legal guidance. With a deep understanding of bankruptcy law, Mr. Levy is prepared to navigate the unique challenges of Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 cases. His commitment to continuous legal education ensures he offers the most effective strategies tailored to your financial situation.
Navigating the complexities of bankruptcy law, including the unique challenges of Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 cases, is a task Mr. Levy is adept at. He understands that every client’s financial situation is unique and tailors his legal strategies accordingly. Contact our Shreveport office today to schedule a free consultation and begin your journey toward financial stability.
Bankruptcy Court, Judges, and Trustees in Monroe Division
The Monroe Division of the United States Bankruptcy Court, located in the heart of Louisiana, serves a broad geographical area, including twelve parishes: Caldwell, East Carroll, Franklin, Jackson, Lincoln, Madison, Morehouse, Ouachita, Richland, Tensas, Union, and West Carroll parishes. If you’re a resident of any of these parishes and considering filing for bankruptcy, your case will be filed and overseen in this division.
Judge Stephen D. Wheelis presides over all Chapter 13 bankruptcy cases in the Monroe Division. Judge John S. Hodge presides over all Chapter 7 bankruptcy cases in the Monroe Division. The Chapter 13 trustee in the Monroe Division is E. Eugene Hastings, and the Chapter 7 trustees are John Cliff Conine and Mark Sutton.
You can visit the official website here for more information about the Monroe Division of the United States Bankruptcy Court. To learn more about Judge Stephen D. Wheelis, click here. To learn more about John S. Hodge, click here. For details about Chapter 13, Trustee E. Eugene Hastings, visit this link.
MONROE CHAPTER 7 BANKRUPTCY
A Chapter 7 bankruptcy can help individuals in Monroe, LA, get rid of their debts. It can be used by people struggling with medical and credit card debts. Most Louisiana people below the state’s median income level can file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. However, if their income is slightly higher than the median, they can still benefit from this type of bankruptcy. Otherwise, they need to consider Chapter 13 bankruptcy.
MONROE CHAPTER 13 BANKRUPTCY – NO ATTORNEY FEES UPFRONT
If they have a stable and regular income, people should consider filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Most people considering filing for a Chapter 13 bankruptcy don’t have to pay their attorney fees in advance. Chapter 13 bankruptcy allows them to make reduced monthly payments and keep most items they want.
A Chapter 13 bankruptcy can help people keep their homes even if they’re behind on their payments. If you are considering filing for bankruptcy in Monroe, contact an experienced attorney at Simon Fitzgerald LLC. In most Chapter 13 cases, we do not require you to pay the attorney fees in advance because the fees can be included in the monthly payments made to the Chapter 13 trustee. Court costs are typically paid before filing. See our fees and costs page for more context.
What are the qualifications of a reasonable bankruptcy attorney in Monroe, Louisiana?
A competent bankruptcy attorney in Louisiana should have specific education, certifications, and experience to handle your case effectively. Look for the following qualifications:
- Education: A reasonable bankruptcy attorney should have completed a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school. This foundational legal education gives them the necessary knowledge and understanding of bankruptcy law and procedures. Additionally, consider whether they have engaged in ongoing legal education or specialized coursework in bankruptcy law.
- Specialization: Seek an attorney specializing in bankruptcy law or extensive experience handling bankruptcy cases. Specialized knowledge allows them to navigate the intricacies of bankruptcy laws specific to Louisiana and offer informed guidance. Look for indications of their focus on bankruptcy, such as their case portfolio or participation in bankruptcy-related organizations.
- Certifications: While not mandatory, certifications in bankruptcy law can indicate an attorney’s dedication to their practice area. The American Board of Certification offers certification programs, such as the Certified Bankruptcy Specialist, which demonstrate higher expertise. These certifications require attorneys to meet specific experience requirements, pass a rigorous examination, and maintain their knowledge through continuing education.
- Experience: Consider the attorney’s years of experience practicing bankruptcy law, particularly in Louisiana. An attorney with a proven track record of successfully handling bankruptcy cases is better equipped to navigate the complexities of the legal system and advocate for your best interests. Please inquire about how many bankruptcy cases they have handled, their success rates, and any notable achievements or settlements.
- Client Testimonials: Review client testimonials and reviews to gain insight into the attorney’s reputation and client satisfaction. Positive testimonials can serve as an indicator of their competence and professionalism. Look for feedback highlighting their communication skills, responsiveness, knowledge, and overall satisfaction with the attorney’s representation.
HOW CAN A BANKRUPTCY ATTORNEY HELP ME DECIDE BETWEEN CHAPTER 7 AND CHAPTER 13 BANKRUPTCY IN MONROE, LOUISIANA?
Determining whether to file for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy is an important decision that depends on various factors, including your financial situation and goals. A bankruptcy attorney can help you understand the differences between the two chapters and assist you in making an informed decision.
An experienced bankruptcy attorney will review your financial circumstances, assess your eligibility for each chapter, and provide personalized advice. They will analyze your income, assets, debts, and financial goals to determine which chapter best fits your situation. They will explain the benefits and drawbacks of each chapter, such as the discharge of debts, protection of assets, and repayment plans.
Additionally, a bankruptcy attorney will guide you through the means test, determining your eligibility for Chapter 7. They will help you gather the necessary documentation and ensure accurate completion of the forms required for the means test.
By consulting with a bankruptcy attorney, you can make an educated decision based on their expert analysis of your financial situation, maximizing the potential benefits of filing for bankruptcy.
Meet Ginger and Mac: A Bankruptcy Case Study
Ginger and her husband Mac have recently had a run of bad luck. Mac had a mild stroke, and while recovering, the resulting medical expenses have made the couple unable to make their regular car payments. Under Louisiana law, the lender can start the repossession process after defaulting on two successive payments. Ginger cannot get to and from her job if the couple loses their vehicle, putting them in even deeper debt.
While bankruptcy is not something Ginger and Mac ever considered, after speaking to a knowledgeable Monroe, LA bankruptcy lawyer, they realize that filing bankruptcy can stabilize their finances—and help them keep their vehicle. While bankruptcy may decrease the couple’s credit score, they realize it is no worse than repossession, charge-offs, or foreclosure. If you are facing vehicle repossession, speaking to an experienced Monroe, LA bankruptcy lawyer from Simon Fitzgerald can help you keep your vehicle—and get some relief from your current financial situation.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Bankruptcy can be a complex process, and having questions is normal. We’ve compiled some of the most frequently asked questions about bankruptcy to help you better understand what to expect.
- Can bankruptcy stop a foreclosure or repossession in Monroe, Louisiana?
- What is the process for filing for bankruptcy in Monore, Louisiana?
- Can I discharge student loan debt in bankruptcy in Monroe, Louisiana?
Ready for a Fresh Start? Contact Simon Fitzgerald LLC Today
Do you need help understanding the difference between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. At Simon Fitzgerald LLC, we provide personalized attention for each case. If you’re struggling with debt and considering bankruptcy, don’t face it alone.
Are you finding Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 needing clarification? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered with our free, easy-to-understand guide to help you understand the basics of Chapter 7 and Chapter 13. Why not sign up for our newsletter to stay informed about the latest bankruptcy laws? When you’re ready to take the next step, we’re here for you. Schedule your free consultation now.
Contact a Monroe, LA bankruptcy lawyer from Simon Fitzgerald LLC to schedule your free initial consultation by calling 318-868-2600. Phone and Video Appointments are Available. Simon Fitzgerald LLC is Louisiana’s oldest bankruptcy law firm. Click here to Schedule Your Free Consultation.
