Bankruptcy Law (Utah, New Jersey, and Southern District of Texas)
Rebuild your financial life with clarity, not shame.
If you are overwhelmed by debt, facing wage garnishment, receiving nonstop creditor calls, or simply need a clean financial restart, you deserve guidance that is strategic, honest, and judgment-free.
At The Law Office of S. Sonkey, PLLC, we provide hands-on, results-focused support for individuals and small business owners navigating bankruptcy under Chapter 7, Chapter 13, and Chapter 11 (Subchapter V) where applicable.
Bankruptcy is not failure.
Our Bankruptcy Services Include:
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy: Liquidation for individuals who qualify under the means test
Chapter 13 Bankruptcy: Repayment plans for homeowners, wage earners, or those catching up on secured debt
Chapter 11 (Small Business Reorganization): Streamlined relief for entrepreneurs and LLCs
Creditor harassment protection: Enforcing the automatic stay
Discharge planning: Ensure debts are properly eliminated
Adversary proceedings: When litigation is necessary within your bankruptcy case
❓ Do I qualify for bankruptcy?
Eligibility depends on your income, debt type, assets, household size, and recent financial activity.
Chapter 7 is often for individuals with lower income and mostly unsecured debt such as credit cards or medical bills.
Chapter 13 is for individuals with steady income who need time to catch up on mortgages, cars, or other secured debt.
Chapter 11 or Subchapter V is generally for small businesses that need to restructure while continuing operations.
We will review your full financial picture during your consultation and explain every option available to you.
❓ Will I lose my home, car, or personal property?
Not always. Many clients keep their home, vehicle, and essential personal items by using state or federal exemptions.
What you keep depends on:
Where you live
What you own
Your debt type
Which chapter you file under
We will go through every asset with you so you understand what is protected.
❓ What debts can be discharged in bankruptcy?
Most unsecured debts can be eliminated, including:
Credit cards
Medical bills
Personal loans
Utility balances
Old lease or cell phone contract debt
Debts that generally cannot be discharged include:
Most student loans
Recent tax debt
Child support and alimony
Court fines and criminal restitution
We will review your debts and tell you exactly what qualifies.
❓ How long will bankruptcy stay on my credit report?
Chapter 7: Up to 10 years
Chapter 13: Up to 7 years
Many clients are able to rebuild credit within 12 to 24 months by budgeting, using secured credit cards, and maintaining low balances.
❓ Will I have to go to court?
You usually will not appear before a judge unless there is a dispute.
However, you must attend the 341 Meeting of Creditors with the trustee.
This meeting is typically brief and often conducted remotely.
❓ Can I file bankruptcy and keep my business open?
Yes, in many cases.
Sole proprietors can often file Chapter 13 and keep operating.
LLCs and corporations may qualify for Subchapter V Chapter 11, which allows the business to continue running while reorganizing debt.
We will determine the best chapter based on your business structure and goals.
❓ What does the consultation include?
During your consultation, we will:
Review your income, debt, assets, and expenses
Determine eligibility for Chapter 7, 13, or 11
Explain every step, document, requirement, and deadline
Break down attorney fees and filing costs
Answer every question clearly and without judgment
You will have a full understanding of your options before moving forward.
📍 Where We Serve Clients
We currently assist bankruptcy clients in:
Utah
New Jersey
Southern District of Texas (SDTX)
Need a Fresh Start? Let’s Talk.
If you're facing overwhelming debt, creditor harassment, or just unsure of your options, we're here to guide you without judgment. Fill out the form below to tell us more about your situation.
Once we receive your submission, our team will review your information and follow up within 24–48 hours to determine next steps. Your financial peace of mind starts here.