Laputka Law Office, LLC

Overwhelmed by Debt? Find Out if Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Can Help.

Free, confidential case evaluation with a local Allentown bankruptcy attorney. Get straight answers about garnishment, lawsuits, foreclosure, and your debt-relief options in Pennsylvania.

  • Allentown & Lehigh Valley
  • Chapter 7 & Chapter 13
  • Free initial consultation
  • 25+ years in bankruptcy law
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What brought you here?

Tell us what you're facing

If creditors, lawsuits, garnishment, or foreclosure are closing in, timing matters.

Filing bankruptcy may trigger protections that stop or pause many collection actions β€” but the right move depends on your income, assets, debts, deadlines, and goals. Speak with a Pennsylvania bankruptcy attorney before ignoring court papers, garnishment notices, repossession threats, or foreclosure deadlines.

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Chapter 7 vs. Chapter 13

Which path fits your situation?

If your goal is…You may want to discuss…
Wipe out unsecured credit-card or medical debtChapter 7
Stop foreclosure and catch up over timeChapter 13
Protect a car or house while reorganizing debtChapter 13
Get a faster fresh start, if eligibleChapter 7
Deal with lawsuits, judgments, or garnishmentChapter 7 or 13

This is general information, not legal advice. The right chapter depends on your full financial picture.

Local. Experienced. On your side.

Laputka Law Office

A local Allentown firm helping Lehigh Valley families through Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy. We'll walk you through your options in plain English and help you decide what makes sense for your situation.

  • Attorney Charles Laputka
  • 1344 W. Hamilton Street, Allentown, PA 18102
  • 25+ years practicing bankruptcy law
  • Chapter 7 & Chapter 13 cases
  • Free initial consultation
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Laputka Law Office, LLC
Common questions

Bankruptcy questions, answered

Can bankruptcy stop wage garnishment in Pennsylvania?

In many cases, filing bankruptcy triggers an automatic stay that can stop most wage garnishment quickly. Whether it applies to your situation depends on the type of debt and your circumstances β€” talk to an attorney before your next paycheck is affected.

Can bankruptcy stop foreclosure in PA?

Filing may pause a foreclosure and, under Chapter 13, can give you a structured way to catch up on missed payments over time. Timing matters, especially before a sheriff sale date β€” the sooner you speak with an attorney, the more options you may have.

Can bankruptcy stop a credit-card lawsuit?

Bankruptcy's automatic stay can halt most collection lawsuits and may discharge the underlying debt. If you've been served or a judgment has been entered, don't ignore it β€” discuss your options with a bankruptcy attorney.

Can I keep my car if I file bankruptcy?

Often, yes. Whether you keep your vehicle depends on your equity, the chapter you file, and whether you're current on payments. We can review your specific situation in a free consultation.

Can I keep my house if I file bankruptcy?

Many homeowners are able to keep their home, particularly in Chapter 13, which can help you cure missed mortgage payments. The answer depends on your equity, income, and goals.

Do I qualify for Chapter 7?

Chapter 7 eligibility generally depends on a "means test" comparing your income to Pennsylvania medians, along with your expenses and debts. Many people qualify β€” we can help you find out.

What's the difference between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13?

Chapter 7 can eliminate many unsecured debts relatively quickly if you qualify. Chapter 13 reorganizes debt into a manageable payment plan and can help you protect property and catch up on arrears. The right choice depends on your finances.

How much does a bankruptcy lawyer cost?

Costs vary by case complexity and chapter. The initial consultation with Laputka Law is free, and we'll be upfront about fees and options before you decide anything.

What debts can bankruptcy eliminate?

Bankruptcy can often discharge credit-card balances, medical bills, personal loans, and certain other unsecured debts. Some debts (like most student loans, recent taxes, and support obligations) are treated differently. We'll review your specific debts with you.

What happens in a free bankruptcy consultation?

We listen to your situation, answer your questions, and explain whether Chapter 7, Chapter 13, or another option may help β€” with no obligation. You'll leave knowing your next step.

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No obligation. Confidential. A real person will call you back.

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