Confused About Filing for Bankruptcy? Ask a Bankruptcy Lawyer in Maryland!

May 5, 2025
Digital Guider

Let’s be honest—filing for bankruptcy sounds scary. If you’re drowning in bills, dodging calls from creditors, or stressing about how to keep your home, it’s easy to feel stuck. At the Law Office of Erica R.S. Hunt, LLC, we get it. You’ve got questions. You need answers. And most importantly, you want relief. That’s where we step in.

As a trusted bankruptcy lawyer in Maryland, we’re here to cut through the legal jargon and break things down in plain English. Bankruptcy isn’t about giving up—it’s about taking back control.

At our firm, we know the law, but more importantly, we know people. We know this process can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’re here to guide you every step of the way, from beginning to end. Let’s see how!

1. Don’t Go It Alone: Bankruptcy Is More Than Filling Out Forms

Filing for bankruptcy isn’t just a one-size-fits-all form you grab online. It’s a legal process with rules, deadlines, and serious consequences if you mess it up.

Here’s where we come in:

We analyze your finances and help you figure out if Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 is right for you.
We protect your property from being taken when possible.
We deal with the paperwork and court filings so you don’t have to stress.
We represent you at hearings and make sure your rights are protected.

Without a lawyer, it’s easy to make mistakes that could cost you time, money, or even your chance at debt relief.

2. Chapter 7 vs. Chapter 13—What’s the Difference, Anyway?

These two types of bankruptcy get tossed around a lot, but what do they really mean?

Chapter 7: This type of bankruptcy gives you a clean break from most of your debts. It’s usually a good fit for folks who don’t have much income or many assets. You could have to give up some belongings, but in many cases, people are able to hold onto the basics they need.
Chapter 13: This option works more like a structured repayment plan. You hang on to your property, but you commit to repaying a portion—or sometimes all—of your debt over a period of three to five years.

Not sure which one’s right for you? That’s what we’re here for. At the Law Office of Erica R.S. Hunt, LLC, we’ll help you understand your options clearly—no pressure, no judgment.

3. The Credit Score Boogeyman—Let’s Clear That Up

One of the biggest fears people have is, “What will this do to my credit?”

Let’s get real:

Yes, bankruptcy hits your credit.
No, it’s not permanent.
You can start rebuilding your credit immediately after filing.

In fact, many of our clients see credit score improvements within a year. Why? Because they’re no longer behind on payments, and they’ve reduced their debt-to-income ratio.

We’ll even walk you through steps to start building your credit back the smart way.

FAQs

Q1: Do I have to give up all my belongings if I file for bankruptcy?

Not necessarily. Maryland law allows for exemptions that let you keep essentials like your home, car, and personal items. We’ll help protect what matters most.

Q2: Can I choose which debts to include?

Nope. You must list all debts. But don’t worry—we’ll help you understand how each one is treated.

Q3: How long does bankruptcy stay on my credit report?

Chapter 7 stays for 10 years. Chapter 13 stays for 7. But many clients start rebuilding their credit right after discharge.

Q4: Will I have to go to court?

Usually just once—for a meeting called the 341 hearing. We’ll be right there with you.

Q5: Can bankruptcy stop foreclosure or repossession?

Yes! Filing can stop collection actions immediately. This is called the “automatic stay.”

At the Law Office of Erica R.S. Hunt, LLC, we’re more than just legal professionals—we’re your advocates, your allies, and your guide through one of life’s toughest moments.

When you need a bankruptcy lawyer in Maryland, you need someone who listens, cares, and fights for your fresh start. Call us today and let’s talk about your options.

Confused About Filing for Bankruptcy? Ask a Bankruptcy Lawyer in Maryland!