Straight answers

Chapter 7 is liquidation bankruptcy: most unsecured debts are discharged within about 3–5 months, and Oklahoma’s exemptions let most filers keep their property. Chapter 13 reorganizes your debt into a 3–5 year repayment plan — it’s the stronger option when you need to stop a foreclosure or catch up on a mortgage or car loan.

That’s what the means test determines: if your household income is below Oklahoma’s median for your household size, you generally qualify. Above it, allowed expenses are deducted first — many people still pass. Our free online calculator gives you an instant estimate.

Bankruptcy affects your score initially, but most filers’ credit was already suffering from missed payments and high balances. Eliminating the debt often lets scores recover within 1–2 years, and many clients qualify for car loans and even mortgages within a few years of discharge.

Court filing fees are $338 for Chapter 7 and $313 for Chapter 13. Attorney fees depend on your case and are discussed up front at your free consultation — payment plans are available, and Chapter 13 attorney fees are typically paid through the plan itself.

Usually, yes. Oklahoma’s homestead exemption protects your primary residence with no dollar limit (up to 1 acre in town or 160 rural acres), and each person can protect up to $7,500 of vehicle equity. Chapter 13 adds even stronger protection if you’re behind on payments.

Immediately. Filing triggers the automatic stay — a federal court order that stops collection calls, wage garnishments, repossessions, and foreclosure actions the day your case is filed.

Most credit cards, medical bills, and personal loans are dischargeable. Child support, alimony, most student loans, recent taxes, and court fines generally survive bankruptcy — we’ll map out exactly where your debts fall at your consultation.

Yes, with waiting periods between discharges: 8 years between Chapter 7 cases, 2 years between Chapter 13 cases, and 4–6 years when switching chapters. If you’ve filed before, tell us when — it changes the strategy, not necessarily the outcome.