Melville's Top Bankruptcy, Foreclosure
& Debt Relief Law Firm

We handle all types of bankruptcy filings at our Melville office, including Chapter 7, Chapter 11, and Chapter 13. Chapter 7 allows for the complete discharge of qualifying debts without repayment and is ideal for individuals with limited income and assets. Chapter 13 lets you catch up on overdue mortgage payments and restructure debts over a 3-to-5-year repayment plan. Chapter 11 is designed for businesses or individuals with significant debts who need to reorganize while continuing operations. Our attorneys will evaluate your financial situation and recommend the best option for your circumstances.

Yes, depending on how much debt you owe and who you owe it to, your creditors may be ready to “settle” a considerable percentage of your debt without filing for bankruptcy. Creditors understand that if you file bankruptcy, especially Chapter 7, they may never see another penny of your money again. We understand the debt settlement process from start to finish and can negotiate with your creditors to reduce the total amount owed, often saving you thousands of dollars while avoiding a bankruptcy filing on your record.

On the other side of bankruptcy are creditors, those who are owed money by someone who files a bankruptcy case. In bankruptcy, creditors have the same rights as the debtors who file the case. When there are nonexempt assets or a payment plan in place, it is critical to maximize your claim's recovery. If your lien is not being addressed properly in the bankruptcy proceedings, you may need to pursue action on the property. You may also find yourself on the receiving end of a lawsuit from a bankruptcy trustee seeking to recoup money given to you prior to the filing. All of these situations necessitate the representation and protection of a qualified attorney.

The choice between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 depends on your income, assets, and financial goals. Chapter 7 is typically best for individuals whose income falls below the New York median and who want a quick discharge of unsecured debts. Chapter 13 is better suited for homeowners who want to catch up on mortgage arrears or individuals with regular income who need a structured repayment plan. New York uses the “means test” to determine Chapter 7 eligibility. During your free consultation, our attorneys will review your finances and recommend the best path forward.

Yes, filing for bankruptcy triggers an “automatic stay” that immediately halts all foreclosure proceedings, collection actions, and creditor harassment. Chapter 13 bankruptcy is particularly effective for homeowners because it allows you to catch up on missed mortgage payments over a 3-to-5-year repayment plan while keeping your home. In emergency situations, we can file bankruptcy petitions within 24-48 hours to stop a foreclosure sale that is imminent. Our Melville attorneys have extensive experience protecting Long Island homeowners from losing their properties.

At The Law Office of Ronald D. Weiss, P.C., we offer free initial consultations and transparent pricing with no hidden fees. The cost of bankruptcy representation varies depending on the type of filing and complexity of your case. We also offer flexible payment plans to make legal representation accessible when you need it most. Many clients find that the cost of hiring an attorney is far less than the debt relief they receive. Contact our Melville office at 631-271-3737 to discuss your specific situation and get a clear picture of what to expect.

The bankruptcy timeline depends on the chapter you file. Chapter 7 cases are typically completed in 3 to 6 months from the filing date, providing a relatively quick path to debt discharge. Chapter 13 cases involve a 3-to-5-year repayment plan, with the discharge occurring after all plan payments are made. Chapter 11 reorganizations can take 6 months to several years depending on the complexity of the business. Throughout the process, the automatic stay protects you from creditor actions. Our attorneys will guide you through each step and keep you informed of your case progress.

Our Melville office is located at 445 Broadhollow Road, Suite CL-10, Melville, NY 11747 — centrally located on Route 110, near the exits of the LIE, Northern State Parkway, and Southern State Parkway. The office is open weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. with free parking available on-site. Call us at 631-271-3737 to schedule your free consultation.