Sacramento bankruptcy questions and answers

A straightforward Chapter 7 with this firm is approximately $1,888 including $1,500 in attorney fees, $338 court fee and two estimated $25 courses. Chapter 13 attorney fees are $2,400, plus a $313 court fee and courses. The Chapter 13 pre-filing amount is quoted in writing at consultation. See the full costs and payment timing.

Yes. You meet with Eric L. Sayre to discuss income, debt, property and possible next steps. The consultation is an initial review, not free legal representation. See what to bring and how to meet.

Ask who handles your case, which work the written fee includes, what may cost extra, how the lawyer evaluates property and what happens if circumstances change. Compare written scope as well as price.

Income and expense calculations, certain prior filings, required counseling and other facts may affect relief. Income above the state median does not automatically end the analysis. See the current Chapter 7 filing guide.

The median-income comparison depends on household size and the data in effect on the intended filing date. For cases on or after July 15, 2026, the current table starts at $79,253 for one person and $139,071 for four people. This comparison is one part of the means test. See the dated table and example.

It depends on equity, exemptions, loan status and other facts. A lien can remain even if personal liability is discharged. Chapter 13 may give eligible filers a way to address arrears over time if the overall budget works. Read how a home budget fits a Chapter 13 plan.

No. Support, some taxes, many student loans and other debts can survive. Secured creditors may keep rights in collateral. An attorney can review how the rules apply to each debt.

The automatic stay generally pauses many ordinary debt garnishments when a case is filed, but debt type and prior bankruptcy cases matter. Some support collection continues. See California withholding limits and bankruptcy steps.

A filed bankruptcy may pause many sales if the stay applies. A pause does not erase arrears or create an affordable mortgage payment. Call with the sale date and review foreclosure options and a Chapter 13 budget.

No. The Eastern District states eSR is not intended for emergency filings. A saved or submitted preparation is not a filed case. See the emergency filing guide and current court instructions.

The U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Eastern District of California. The Sacramento clerk's office is at 501 I Street, Suite 3-200. Check the court address, hours and official forms before traveling.

Confirm your district and chapter, gather records, complete required counseling, prepare and review forms, file with the court and follow trustee deadlines. See the filing steps and official checklists.

The automatic stay generally pauses many collection actions once a petition is filed, with important exceptions. A creditor may ask the court to lift the stay, and prior cases may change whether it applies.