Can a St. Charles County Bankruptcy Attorney Stop Foreclosure Actions?

Can a St. Charles County Bankruptcy Attorney Stop Foreclosure Actions?

• February 12, 2026
• Digital Guider

Foreclosure can feel scary and confusing. One day, things seem fine. The next day, letters start showing up. Calls come in. Sleep gets harder. Many homeowners ask if a St. Charles County bankruptcy attorney can really stop foreclosure actions.

Bankruptcy law gives homeowners tools that can pause or slow foreclosure. Knowing how those tools work helps families breathe again and make smarter choices.

What Is Foreclosure, Really?

Foreclosure happens when a lender takes a home because mortgage payments stopped. It is not instant. It follows steps.

Most foreclosures include:

• Missed payments over several months
• A notice from the lender
• A set sale date
• Transfer of the home after sale

This process takes time. That time can matter. Legal help during this stage can change the outcome.

How Bankruptcy Can Help Stop Foreclosure

Bankruptcy law includes something called an automatic stay. Once a bankruptcy case is filed, this stay starts right away.

The automatic stay can:

• Stop foreclosure sales
• Pause collection calls
• Freeze lawsuits
• Block wage garnishments

This protection comes from federal law. It works fast. It gives homeowners space to think and plan.

Does Bankruptcy Always Stop Foreclosure?

Not every time. Timing matters a lot. If the home is already sold, options shrink. Past bankruptcy filings can also affect protection.

That is why a St. Charles County bankruptcy attorney looks at the full picture first. Each case is different.

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy: A Short Pause

Chapter 7 is often called a fresh start bankruptcy. It clears many unsecured debts.

What Chapter 7 can do:

• Stop foreclosure for a short time
• Clear credit card and medical debt
• Reduce money stress fast

What it may not do:

• Catch up missed mortgage payments
• Stop foreclosure long term

This option works best when keeping the home is no longer possible.

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy: A Stronger Shield

Chapter 13 works like a repayment plan. It lasts three to five years.

Why Chapter 13 helps more:

• Stops foreclosure right away
• Allows missed payments to be paid over time
• Keeps the homeowner in the house
• Sets one monthly payment

Many people choose this option when income has stabilized but past payments fell behind.

When Is the Best Time to Get Help?

Sooner is better. Waiting limits choices.

Help matters most when:

• Foreclosure letters arrive
• A sale date is set
• Missed payments keep growing
• Income has recovered after hardship

A St. Charles County bankruptcy attorney reviews these details and explains what steps make sense.

Why Experience Matters in These Cases

Bankruptcy rules are strict. Deadlines matter. Paperwork must be accurate. One small error can slow the process or even lead to the case being thrown out.

Attorney Erica R. S. Hunt has practiced law for over 30 years in the Maryland and Washington Metropolitan area. Her work includes real estate and bankruptcy law. That mix helps spot problems early and guide cases the right way.

What Bankruptcy Cannot Do

Bankruptcy is helpful, but it is not magic.

It cannot:

• Remove a mortgage lien by itself
• Guarantee the home forever
• Stop foreclosure if payments stop again
• Replace future mortgage payments

Clear facts help homeowners plan better.

Other Options That May Work Too

Bankruptcy is not the only path.

Other choices may include:

• Loan modifications
• Temporary payment pauses
• Repayment plans
• Short sales

Sometimes, combining options works best.

Simple Comparison Table

This table shows why planning matters.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Foreclosure feels heavy, but clear guidance helps lift the weight. A St. Charles County bankruptcy attorney can explain how bankruptcy may stop foreclosure actions and what option fits best.

If you want to talk through your situation and understand your rights, reach out to the Law Office of Erica R.S. Hunt, LLC for thoughtful guidance and steady support.

FAQs

• Q – Can bankruptcy stop foreclosure the same day?
  A – Yes. The automatic stay starts right after filing.
• Q – How long does the stay last?
  A – It depends on the bankruptcy type and past filings.
• Q – Do missed payments disappear?
  A – No. They are handled through repayment plans.
• Q – Can foreclosure start again later?
  A – Yes, if plan terms are not followed.
• Q – Is Chapter 13 better for saving a home?
  A – Often yes, when income is steady.