Bankruptcy
Smith, Gilliam, Williams & Miles (SGWM) understands that bankruptcy can put individuals and their businesses under a tremendous amount of stress, and the complexity of today’s bankruptcy laws doesn’t help. That’s why SGWM takes so much care in helping our clients through this situation. Our firm is skilled in handling all forms of bankruptcy filings, including Chapter 7, Chapter 11, and Chapter 13. We also work with debtors and creditors as they move through the bankruptcy process. Brad Patten, bankruptcy attorney, has been handling bankruptcy matters since 1986 and has been a Chapter 7 Trustee since 1997. SGWM is a debt relief agency and helps people file for relief under the Bankruptcy Code.
Bankruptcy For Families & Individuals
Deciding whether or not to file for bankruptcy is a serious decision. There are pros and cons. SGWM’s bankruptcy attorney, Brad Patten, excels at communication and helping you make an informed decision. If you decide that bankruptcy is right for you, we will ensure that you file under the correct chapter and will be with you throughout the entire process.
Chapter 7
Bankruptcy
Top Benefit: Protect your household possessions.
Chapter 7 bankruptcy is one of the most common types of personal bankruptcy. It is often a viable option for individuals who are facing financial difficulties and unable to repay their debts. One of the primary advantages of Chapter 7 bankruptcy is that certain properties that are deemed essential by the court are exempt from liquidation.
Chapter 11
Bankruptcy
Top Benefit: Ideal for individuals with higher incomes.
Chapter 11 bankruptcy has become an efficient and popular option for both businesses and individuals to overcome debt challenges. Most Chapter 11 cases are too costly for consumer debtors but are an option for those who can afford it. Filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy allows the debtor to create a repayment plan, which must be approved and regulated by the court.
Chapter 13
Bankruptcy
Top Benefit: Repay debt with an affordable payment plan.
Much like Chapter 11 bankruptcy, Chapter 13 allows debtors to repay their debts over time through a court-approved plan. However, Chapter 13 is reserved for individuals with stable incomes who fall within a specific debt limit. SGWM will review your financial situation and work with you to determine the best course of action.
Bankruptcy For Businesses & Corporations
Our firm is proud to serve and represent businesses in metro Atlanta and North Georgia in a variety of ways, especially when they are facing difficult situations such as bankruptcy. Consider Brad Patten, SGWM’s top bankruptcy attorney, a close ally dedicated to helping you navigate the complex bankruptcy laws and doing what’s best for you and your business’s future.
Chapter 7
Bankruptcy
Top Benefit: Future income is unaffected.
Chapter 7 bankruptcy can be a good option for business owners who wish to liquidate their business assets to cover outstanding debts. Whether or not this solution is right for you depends on the structure of your business and the level of personal liability. Just as important, we will guide you through the entire process.
Chapter 11
Bankruptcy
Top Benefit: Business can operate during repayment.
Bankruptcy law is extremely complicated. Avoiding mistakes during Chapter 11 bankruptcy is essential. A small error can result in a substantial, unnecessary loss for your business. Our firm has extensive experience in Chapter 11 bankruptcy and works hard to ensure the best possible outcome for our clients. We can do the same for you.
Our Attorneys
Bradley J. Patten
Bradley J. Patten joined Smith, Gilliam, Williams & Miles in 1989 and has an extensive background in bankruptcy and workers' compensation law. As a court-appointed Chapter 7 trustee since 1997, Mr. Patten works with debtors and creditors to guide them through the complex process of bankruptcy.
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