Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Attorneys Serving Cincinnati
For many people burdened by debt, Chapter 7 bankruptcy offers a straightforward and effective way to regain financial stability. In fact, the majority of consumer bankruptcy cases in the U.S. are filed under Chapter 7, which allows qualified individuals to wipe out many forms of debt and move forward with a clean financial slate.
At our Cincinnati-based firm, we understand the stress that financial hardship can cause. Our attorneys are committed to helping you determine whether Chapter 7 is the right fit for your situation—and if so, guiding you through every step of the process. We work efficiently to file your case, eliminate your debt, and protect your property wherever possible. Contact our Cincinnati Chapter 7 bankruptcy lawyers today for a no-cost consultation.
How We Help With Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
Assess your income and financial situation to confirm eligibility
Provide strategic guidance before filing
Draft and file all necessary court documents
Maximize exemptions to help you retain your property
Assist with required counseling and education courses
Help discharge qualifying debts
Offer tools and advice for rebuilding after bankruptcy
Qualifying for Chapter 7 in Ohio
You don’t have to be penniless to qualify for Chapter 7. Your eligibility is primarily based on your income compared to the median for a household your size in Ohio. If your income is below the threshold, you typically qualify automatically. If it’s above, a “means test” is used to evaluate your disposable income and allowable expenses.
We’ll also evaluate your assets and apply Ohio’s bankruptcy exemption laws to help safeguard your property. Before filing, we’ll help you plan carefully to minimize potential risks and maximize protection.
Other requirements include completing a credit counseling session and ensuring you meet the necessary time limits if you’ve filed bankruptcy in the past.
What Is a “No Asset” Chapter 7 Case?
Although Chapter 7 is often described as a liquidation process, most individuals who file do not lose any property. That’s because Ohio law allows many exemptions—legal protections that cover things like your home, car, and retirement accounts.
Our goal is to file your case as a “no asset” bankruptcy, meaning the trustee finds nothing available to distribute to creditors and you keep everything you own.
Common Ohio exemptions include:
Equity in your primary residence (homestead exemption)
A personal vehicle (up to a certain value)
Household goods and furnishings
Work-related tools and equipment
Retirement savings and pensions
Certain benefits such as Social Security or unemployment
Child or spousal support
A wildcard exemption to cover miscellaneous personal items
If an asset falls outside these protections but has little market value, the trustee may still choose not to pursue it.
Debts That Can Be Erased Under Chapter 7
Filing Chapter 7 can discharge a wide range of unsecured debts, such as:
Credit card debt
Unpaid medical bills
Personal and payday loans
Civil judgments
Utility arrears
Deficiency balances after repossession or foreclosure
Some older income taxes
Business-related liabilities
In rare cases, student loans (if hardship is proven)
Considering Other Debt Solutions
Chapter 7 isn’t ideal for everyone. If you have income to spare, significant secured debts, or assets you want to keep that aren’t fully protected, Chapter 13 may be more appropriate. We’ll explain all your options clearly so you can make an informed decision that works best for your goals.
Speak With a Cincinnati Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Lawyer Today
If you’re feeling buried by debt and unsure where to turn, we’re here to help. Our Cincinnati bankruptcy attorneys offer skilled, compassionate representation to individuals and families ready to take control of their finances. Call now for a free consultation, and let’s explore how Chapter 7 can give you a fresh start.
