Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
A Fresh Start. A Clean Slate. A New Beginning.
If you're overwhelmed by credit card debt, medical bills, or personal loans and can't keep up with monthly payments, Chapter 7 bankruptcy may be the solution you need. At Gawyn Mitchell, Attorney at Law, we help individuals and families across Mississippi discharge overwhelming debts and get a fresh financial start.
With over 35 years of experience, Attorney Gawyn Mitchell is here to walk you through every step of the process with honesty, clarity, and compassion.
What is Chapter 7 Bankruptcy?
Chapter 7 bankruptcy, also called "liquidation bankruptcy," is designed to eliminate most unsecured debts and allow you to move forward without the constant stress of creditors and overdue bills. It’s often the fastest and most straightforward path to debt relief.
Benefits of Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
- Discharge Most Unsecured Debts - Credit cards, medical bills, payday loans, and personal loans can be completely eliminated.
- Stop Creditor Harassment - Once you file, creditors must stop calling, threatening, or suing you.
- End Wage Garnishments and Utility Shutoffs - Filing stops garnishments and prevents utilities from being disconnected.
- Keep Exempt Assets - Mississippi bankruptcy exemptions may allow you to keep your home, vehicle, and other essentials.
- Quick Resolution - Most Chapter 7 cases are completed within 3 to 6 months.
Am I Eligible for Chapter 7?
To qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you must pass a means test, which compares your income to the state median and assesses your ability to repay debts. Don’t worry—our office will walk you through this process to determine if you qualify and whether Chapter 7 is right for you.
What the Process Looks Like
- Free Consultation – We review your financial situation and answer your questions.
- Credit Counseling – Complete a required online or phone-based counseling course.
- Filing – We prepare and file your bankruptcy petition with the court.
- Automatic Stay – Creditors must stop collection efforts immediately.
- 341 Meeting – Attend a short meeting with a bankruptcy trustee (we’ll prepare you).
- Discharge – Most debts are wiped out within a few months of filing.
Why Choose Gawyn Mitchell?
- Over 35 Years of Bankruptcy Experience
- Personalized, One-on-One Guidance
- Friendly, Local Support Team
- Free Initial Consultations
- Designated Federal Debt Relief Agency
- Offices in Columbus and Louisville, MS
Take the First Step Toward Debt Relief
You deserve a chance to start over—and Chapter 7 might be the right path forward. Call (662) 327-3344 today or visit us at 112 5th St. South, Columbus, MS to schedule your free consultation.
Let’s find the solution that gives you peace of mind and puts you back in control.
Ready for a Fresh Start?
Fill out the form below, and we’ll contact you to discuss your options. Your consultation is free, confidential, and judgment-free.
FAQ's
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
What is Chapter 7 bankruptcy?
Bankruptcy is a legal process designed to help people who are unable to repay their debts. It allows you to either discharge most of your debts (Chapter 7) or reorganize them into a manageable payment plan (Chapter 13), providing relief and a path forward.
Will I lose everything if I file for bankruptcy?
No. Bankruptcy law allows you to keep certain “exempt” assets such as your home, car, clothing, and household items. In many cases, clients can keep most or all of their property.
How do I qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy?
You must pass the means test, which compares your income to the median income in Mississippi. If your income is below the threshold, you likely qualify. If you’re above it, other factors may still allow you to file. We can assess your eligibility during a free consultation.
What’s the difference between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13?
Chapter 7 eliminates most unsecured debts quickly, usually within a few months.
Chapter 13 sets up a repayment plan over 3 to 5 years for those with steady income who want to protect assets like their home or car.
We’ll help you determine which chapter is right for your situation.
Will bankruptcy stop creditor calls and wage garnishments?
Yes. As soon as your case is filed, the automatic stay goes into effect. This legally stops creditors from calling, suing, garnishing wages, or taking other collection actions against you.
How long does the bankruptcy process take?
Chapter 7 typically takes about 3 to 6 months from filing to discharge.