Chapter 13
Helping you repay your debts over time without losing your hard-earned assets
Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Attorney Serving The San Francisco Bay area
What Is A Chapter 13 Bankruptcy?
If you’ve fallen behind on your mortgage or car payments, a Chapter 13 bankruptcy can help you stop foreclosure, protect your property, and even reduce your car payments in some situations. In certain cases, you may qualify for a repayment plan that allows you to pay only a portion of your debt while keeping all your assets — including your home and vehicle.
Chapter 13 can also provide relief in unique situations, such as helping you restore your driver’s license if it was suspended due to unpaid parking tickets or other fines.
Because Chapter 13 involves creating a detailed repayment plan and meeting specific legal requirements, it’s important to work with an attorney who understands the process. Attorney Eric J. Gravel, serving clients across the Bay Area, including San Francisco, Oakland, Berkeley and San Mateo, has more than 17 years of experience helping individuals and families regain control of their finances and move forward with confidence.
Call The Law Office of Eric Gravel at 415-843-7454 to schedule a consultation with a lawyer today.
How Do I Qualify for a Chapter 13 Bankruptcy?
To qualify for a Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you must have a regular and reliable source of income — enough to make consistent payments as determined by the court. Your income doesn’t have to come from employment alone; you may also qualify if you receive Social Security, disability, unemployment, retirement benefits, or rental income.
Certain individuals and entities are not eligible for Chapter 13 relief, including stock or commodity brokers and corporations. However, self-employed individuals and sole proprietors may qualify if their debts fall within the limits set by bankruptcy law. Most repayment plans last between three to five years, and your eligibility will depend on passing a means test to confirm your financial situation.
Attorney Eric J. Gravel can review your circumstances in detail before you file to help you determine whether Chapter 13 bankruptcy is the right path for you. Contact The Law Office of Eric Gravel
at 415-843-7454
to
schedule your free consultation and start exploring your options for financial recovery.
What Happens During a Chapter 13 Proceeding?
Before filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you’ll need to demonstrate your eligibility through a means test, which confirms that you meet the income requirements for this type of repayment plan. Once you file, all foreclosures, wage garnishments, repossessions, lawsuits, and creditor harassment must stop immediately, giving you the relief and breathing room you need.
Attorney Eric J. Gravel will work closely with you to create a repayment plan that fits your financial situation, but the plan must still be approved by the court. The court will review your proposal to ensure it’s made in good faith, that unsecured creditors receive at least what they would have under a Chapter 7 filing, and that your payments include all disposable income — the portion of your income not required for essential living expenses.
While the process can be complex, Eric J. Gravel will guide you through every step with clarity and care, helping you move toward lasting financial stability. Contact The Law Office of Eric Gravel to begin your Chapter 13 filing today.
CHAPTER 13 — FAQs
How does Chapter 13 help Bay Area homeowners?
It allows you to stop foreclosure and catch up on mortgage payments over time while keeping your home.
Will Chapter 13 stop repossession of my vehicle?
Yes. Filing stops repossession and allows you to catch up or restructure past-due auto payments.
Do I need a steady income to qualify for Chapter 13?
Yes. You must show you have reliable income to maintain a repayment plan.
Can Chapter 13 lower my monthly payments?
Often yes. Chapter 13 consolidates debts into one manageable payment.
How long does a Chapter 13 repayment plan last?
Most plans last 3–5 years depending on your income and financial goals.
Disclaimer: We are a debt relief agency. We are attorneys who help people file for bankruptcy relief under the bankruptcy code.
Have Questions About Bankruptcy?
Contact The Law Office of Eric Gravel at 415-843-7454 — we’ll take the time to answer your questions and help you understand your options.