Understanding Bankruptcy in Suffolk County Massachusetts
Coleman McDonald is a proven bankruptcy lawyer in Lynn. Top-Rated Suffolk County Bankruptcy Lawyers | (413) 224-2286 | Get Massachusetts Bankruptcy Legal Advice—Don’t stress over unpayable bills. Take control of your finances now! Our Bankruptcy lawyers in Suffolk and Essex County work with families that need a law firm near me for in Lynn, Melrose, Revere, Malden, Wakefield, Everett, Stoneham, and Swampscott. We explain what bankruptcy is, how it can help, and if it is the right choice for you.
Bankruptcy, especially Chapter 7, can help you get rid of many kinds of debt if you are having trouble paying your bills. But, some debts—like student loans, child support, and some taxes—usually cannot go away through bankruptcy.
If you want to learn more, Coleman McDonald is here to help you understand your options.
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Common Bankruptcy Questions—A Quick Guide
What is bankruptcy? Bankruptcy in Lynn, MA, is a legal process that lets people or businesses get rid of some or all of their debts, or make a plan to pay them back, if they can’t afford to pay them anymore. Massachusetts law about bankruptcy
What types of bankruptcy are there?
- Chapter 7 (Liquidation): This type clears away most debts that aren’t backed by property, but it may require selling some things you own that are not protected by law.
- Chapter 13 (Repayment Plan): This type lets you pay back your debts through a plan that usually lasts three to five years.
How does bankruptcy affect my credit? A bankruptcy filing will show up on your credit report for up to 10 years. Even so, many people are able to rebuild their credit and qualify for new loans, including mortgages, after a few years.
What is the automatic stay? As soon as you file for bankruptcy, most actions to collect debt—such as lawsuits, wage garnishments, and collection calls—must stop right away because of something called the “automatic stay.”
Are bankruptcy filings private? Bankruptcy cases are part of the public record, but they are not advertised. Usually, only someone who looks for your case will find the details.
About Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
- Debt Discharge: Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Suffolk County can clear away most unsecured debts, such as credit card bills, medical expenses, and personal loans.
Get Information at District of Massachusetts | United States Bankruptcy Court
Debts Not Cleared: Some debts cannot be erased by bankruptcy, including child support, alimony, most student loans, and some tax debts.
- Means Test: You must qualify for Chapter 7 by passing an income test called the “means test.”
- Asset Liquidation: Some items you own that aren’t protected may be sold to pay back your creditors, but many people keep most or all of their property using special laws called exemptions. Suffolk County, Massachusetts
Homestead Exemption: In Massachusetts, a law called the homestead exemption can help protect some of the value in your home from creditors.
Seeking Legal Guidance
- Why talk to a lawyer? A bankruptcy attorney can look at your situation and help you figure out the best way to handle your debts.
- Do I have to pay to talk to a lawyer? Many bankruptcy lawyers in Suffolk County offer free first meetings, called consultations, to help you understand your options.
- What about court rules? The United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Massachusetts has specific rules. A lawyer can guide you through these steps.
- How do I find a bankruptcy lawyer? You can find approved bankruptcy attorneys in Suffolk County through the Massachusetts Bar Association or by searching for local bankruptcy lawyers online.
- Can court staff help me with legal advice? The Clerk’s Office and judges cannot give you legal advice. They can only answer questions about court procedures and the papers you need to file.
Only a qualified attorney can give you legal advice about your bankruptcy case or filing.
What Can You Expect During the Bankruptcy Process?
What to Expect During the Bankruptcy Process
From your first consultation, our bankruptcy attorneys will guide you every step of the way. We’ll help you determine whether you qualify for Chapter 7 or if Chapter 13 is a better option for your needs. We handle every aspect of your case—from filing with the bankruptcy court and gathering necessary documents to submitting everything to the bankruptcy trustee—so you can focus on your future. Throughout the process, you’ll have ongoing guidance and support. Schedule a consultation today to get the facts you need to move forward with confidence. Bankruptcy in East Longmeadow—What You Need to Know
Affordable, Trusted Debt Relief Attorneys Serving Suffolk County & Beyond
Coleman & MacDonald have been helping clients across the North Shore, Greater Boston, and Suffolk County for over three decades. Our attorneys provide clear guidance, asset protection, and immediate relief from relentless creditor harassment. We help you achieve a fresh financial start, putting an end to wage garnishments, lawsuits, and other stressful legal actions.
Chapter 7 vs. Chapter 13 Bankruptcy in Suffolk County, MA
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy: Chapter 7 offers fast relief by eliminating most types of unsecured debt—such as credit cards, medical bills, payday loans, and some overdue taxes. It stops wage garnishments, bank account freezes, lawsuits, and other similar actions. In most cases, you can keep your home and vehicle as long as you remain current on payments.
Chapter 13 Bankruptcy: Chapter 13 provides immediate relief by helping you consolidate your debts into a single, affordable monthly payment plan, letting you pay off your obligations over time. Filing stops lawsuits, garnishments, and bank freezes immediately. Chapter 13 is ideal if you need to catch up on mortgage or car payments to halt foreclosure or repossession and if you have a regular income for the repayment plan. East Longmeadow Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Guidance
Is Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Right for You?
With Chapter 7, you can discharge most unsecured debts, including medical bills, credit card balances, personal loans, and debts from repossessions. If you’re current on payments, you may be able to keep your home and vehicle. The filing brings swift relief—creditor harassment, lawsuits, wage garnishments, and bank account freezes all stop immediately, giving you a real chance at a fresh financial start.
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Which Debts Can’t Chapter 7 Discharge?
Certain debts are generally non-dischargeable, including most federal and state tax debts, child or spousal support, and student loans. However, by wiping out other eligible debts, Chapter 7 bankruptcy can help make your remaining obligations much more manageable, giving you a path to financial stability. Filing for Bankruptcy-What to Know
If you need an experienced Chapter 7 bankruptcy lawyer in Suffolk County, MA, contact us today to review your options.
Free Consultation – Call (413)-224-2286. Coleman McDonald is a bankruptcy law firm serving Suffolk County and the North Andover, MA area, with office locations in East Longmeadow, Saugus, and Suffolk County. Our experienced bankruptcy attorneys are not just knowledgeable, but also dedicated to providing caring and effective legal support. We have helped many clients in Suffolk County and throughout Suffolk County find relief from debts. Contact us today to learn how we can assist you.
Retain the Leading Bankruptcy Attorneys in Suffolk County, MA
At Coleman & MacDonald, we recognize that financial challenges can be overwhelming and complicated. That’s why we provide a full spectrum of bankruptcy services tailored to your individual needs. Our team can help you avoid foreclosure, secure loan modifications, stop tax levies and wage garnishments, prevent car repossessions, and in many cases, reduce your car payments or “strip off” second mortgages that are completely underwater.
Filing for bankruptcy with our firm can help you:
- Discharge or reduce qualifying debts*
- Protect exempt assets like your home, car, and retirement savings*
- Stop foreclosure proceedings and prevent evictions
- Put an end to lawsuits and creditor harassment
- Gain crucial time to reorganize your finances
- Restore your peace of mind and finally get restful sleep again
*Please note: according to Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly. Your ability to keep certain assets or discharge specific debts depends on your unique circumstances. We highly recommend scheduling a consultation with one of our attorneys to discuss your options and make confident, informed choices about your financial future. Expert Advice from a Peabody Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Lawyer
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About Suffolk County, Massachusetts
Suffolk County is a vibrant and historic region located in eastern Massachusetts. It is best known as the home of Boston, the state’s capital and largest city. In addition to Boston, Suffolk County also includes the cities of Chelsea, Revere, and the town of Winthrop. These communities together create a dynamic blend of culture, history, and city life.
Key Facts:
- Population: Suffolk County is the fourth most populous county in Massachusetts.
- Major Cities: Boston (including neighborhoods such as Dorchester, Roxbury, and South Boston), Chelsea, Revere, and Winthrop.
- Education and Industry: The county is a hub of higher education, health care, finance, and innovation. It’s home to world-renowned universities like Boston University and Northeastern University, as well as top hospitals and medical research facilities.
- Access and Transportation: With Logan International Airport and multiple public transportation options, Suffolk County is well-connected to the rest of New England and the world.
- Historic & Cultural Significance: As one of the oldest regions in the country, Suffolk County features landmarks like the Freedom Trail, Faneuil Hall, the Boston Common, and many museums and historic neighborhoods.
Living in Suffolk County: Residents enjoy a rich variety of experiences—beautiful parks, waterfront attractions, shopping, renowned restaurants and vibrant neighborhoods. The area supports a diverse population and offers everything from bustling urban centers to quiet seaside communities.
Cities, Towns, and Communities in Suffolk County, MA (with ZIP Codes)
- Boston (City)
Boston is made up of many unique neighborhoods, each with its own ZIP codes:
- Allston: 02134
- Back Bay: 02116, 02199
- Beacon Hill: 02108
- Brighton: 02135
- Charlestown: 02129
- Chinatown/Leather District: 02111, 02116
- Dorchester: 02121, 02122, 02124, 02125
- Downtown: 02108, 02109, 02110, 02111, 02112
- East Boston: 02128
- Fenway/Kenmore: 02215
- Hyde Park: 02136
- Jamaica Plain: 02130
- Mattapan: 02126
- Mission Hill: 02120
- North End: 02113
- Roslindale: 02131
- Roxbury: 02119, 02120
- South Boston: 02127
- South End: 02118
- West End: 02114
- West Roxbury: 02132
- Seaport District: 02210
Other general Boston ZIP codes: 02114, 02115, 02201, 02203, 02205, 02222, 02241, 02283 (some for business/government use)
- Chelsea (City)
- ZIP codes: 02150, 02151 (partially shared with Revere)
- Revere (City)
- ZIP codes: 02151, 02152 (partially shared with Winthrop)
- Winthrop (Town)
- ZIP codes: 02152
Summary Table
Place | ZIP Codes |
|---|---|
Boston | 02108, 02109, 02110, 02111, 02112, 02113, 02114, 02115, 02116, 02118, 02119, 02120, 02121, 02122, 02124, 02125, 02126, 02127, 02128, 02130, 02131, 02132, 02134, 02135, 02136, 02199, 02201, 02203, 02205, 02210, 02215, 02222, 02241, 02283 |
Chelsea | 02150, 02151 |
Revere | 02151, 02152 |
Winthrop | 02152 |
Notable Suburbs & Nearby Communities
While Suffolk County is mostly urban, nearby suburbs (in bordering counties) include Everett, Somerville, Brookline, Milton, Quincy, Watertown, and Cambridge, but these are not part of Suffolk County.
Key Statistics:
- Overall Increase: Bankruptcy filings in Massachusetts rose by 13.1% for the year ending March 31, 2025.
- By Chapter:
- Chapter 7: 3,112 cases
- Chapter 11: 105 cases
- Chapter 13: 1,605 cases
- Year-over-Year Comparison:
- The 2025 total (4,823 filings) marks an 18.8% increase from the 4,060 filings in 2024.
- The 2024 total (4,060 filings) was itself a 21.6% rise compared to 3,869 bankruptcy cases filed in 2023.
These statistics highlight a significant upward trend in bankruptcy filings across Massachusetts.
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