Bankruptcy Attorney in Queens

Compassionate Bankruptcy Support Across New York City & the Surrounding Boroughs

Debt can feel like quicksand—the harder you try to climb out, the deeper you sink. When creditors call, bills pile up, and your home or paycheck feels at risk, it’s easy to feel trapped. But you’re not out of options. At Shiryak & Habib LLP, our bankruptcy lawyers in Queens help individuals and families in Queens find legal, effective ways to regain control of their finances through bankruptcy and debt relief solutions that work.

With over 40 years of combined experience and thousands of successful cases, we bring deep insight into the legal tools available and how to use them to your advantage. Whether you’re struggling to keep up with credit card payments, facing foreclosure, or worried about wage garnishment, we guide you through what comes next with clarity, compassion, and confidence.

As a local practice, we know that clients in Queens often face unique pressures, including high housing costs and rapidly changing employment markets. Our understanding of these local factors shapes our approach and allows us to develop solutions that fit the realities of living in New York City’s most diverse borough. We also keep up with citywide developments to help you navigate changes to bankruptcy laws and court procedures that impact Queens residents directly.

Call (908) 460-1337 or complete our online form today to schedule your free consultation with our bankruptcy lawyer in Queens. Take the first step toward real financial relief.
 

Understanding the Bankruptcy Process: What You Need to Know

Navigating the bankruptcy process can feel overwhelming, especially with many legal complexities. At Shiryak & Habib LLP, we know knowledge gives you confidence. We dedicate ourselves to empowering clients with clear, concise information about what to expect when pursuing bankruptcy.

Here’s a brief overview of the important steps involved in the bankruptcy process:

1. Consultation: Schedule a free initial consultation where we assess your financial situation and discuss your options.
2. Preparation of Documents: We help you gather and prepare the necessary documentation required for filing.
3. Filing Bankruptcy: Our experienced bankruptcy lawyers in Queens file your petition with the court and represent you during proceedings.
4. Creditor Meetings: You attend a meeting with your creditors where you have the opportunity to discuss your financial situation.
5. Completion: Once the process is complete, we assist you in understanding your fresh start and next steps for rebuilding your financial health.

Residents in Queens file bankruptcy at the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Eastern District of New York, located in downtown Brooklyn. Local filing procedures, trustee assignments, and meeting schedules sometimes differ from other districts, so working with a bankruptcy lawyer in Queens who understands these nuances can help you avoid unnecessary delays. Our knowledge of the local court’s requirements streamlines your case and makes the process more manageable from start to finish.

We believe no one should face financial challenges alone. Our skilled attorneys guide you through every step of the bankruptcy process, offering support and legal guidance tailored to your unique situation. Get in touch with us today to take control of your financial future!

Who Qualifies for Bankruptcy in Queens?

Many people wonder if they qualify for bankruptcy in Queens. Federal law sets the basic eligibility requirements. To file for Chapter 7, you typically need to pass a means test, comparing your household income to the state median. Those who do not qualify under this test may still find relief under Chapter 13 bankruptcy, which allows you to reorganize and pay your debts over time. Factors like your income, the type of debts, and your recent financial history all play a part in determining your options. If you have lived in Queens for most of the past six months, you usually file in the Eastern District of New York. Our team reviews each situation closely to help you understand which bankruptcy path fits your needs and goals.

Certain debts, such as student loans or child support, are rarely discharged in bankruptcy. However, other common debts—including credit card accounts, past-due utility bills, and unsecured personal loans—may become manageable or even eliminated. Queens residents should know that New York law allows certain exemptions, such as protecting a portion of your home’s equity or your car under specific limits. These rules can influence the outcome and impact of your bankruptcy case, and local attorneys remain alert to changes in exemptions or laws that affect Queens filers.

What to Expect During the Bankruptcy Timeline in Queens

The bankruptcy process in Queens follows a series of clear steps and typical timeframes. Most cases begin with an initial consultation and financial evaluation, followed by document preparation and completion of required education courses. After we file your petition, the court issues an “automatic stay,” which puts collection calls and foreclosure actions on hold while the case proceeds. Within a few weeks, you will attend a meeting of creditors—sometimes called a 341 meeting—where the trustee reviews your information and asks basic questions about your finances. These meetings for Queens residents usually take place in Brooklyn or may be held virtually, depending on court schedules and circumstances.

For Chapter 7 bankruptcy filings, discharge of eligible debts often occurs about three to four months after filing. Chapter 13 bankruptcy cases take longer, running on a three- to five-year payment plan. The timeline may adjust based on the complexity of your case or court workload. Throughout this journey, you can expect communication about next steps and upcoming deadlines. Local attorneys who routinely handle Queens cases understand the nuances of the Eastern District of New York’s procedures and can help keep your matter moving efficiently.

Each step has specific requirements—including document exchanges, education class certificates, and periodic status updates to the court. Working with a legal team familiar with local judges, trustees, and rules can help you stay organized and avoid costly delays. If you live in neighborhoods like Jamaica, Long Island City, or Flushing, be sure to ask about any additional factors that might affect the scheduling or handling of your case.

How New York & Federal Laws Affect Bankruptcy Outcomes

Filing for bankruptcy in Queens requires following both federal and New York state laws. Federal statutes govern the main process, set eligibility, and establish protections such as the automatic stay. However, New York law decides what property you can keep—or “exempt”—from liquidation. Queens residents can often choose between federal and state exemption sets, which can make a significant difference in what assets you protect. New York’s exemptions, for instance, may allow you to shield more equity in a primary home or keep certain retirement savings untouched.

Living in Queens also means navigating recent changes in local housing and consumer laws. For example, new rules may affect how rent arrears are treated or how local courts handle collection cases tied to ongoing economic pressures. The large number of rental units in Queens and rising property values make these rules especially relevant. Attorneys who focus on serving Queens stay attentive to updates from local courts, the New York State Legislature, and the Eastern District’s evolving case law. By understanding these local legal trends, your legal team can help you make choices that reflect current laws and regional realities.

Real Answers for Real Financial Problems

At Shiryak & Habib LLP, bankruptcy is more than a legal process—it’s a way forward. Many clients come to us at their lowest point, unsure whether they will ever recover. We’ve seen it many times: with the right legal approach, you can reset, rebuild, and move on with your life.

Our practice focuses exclusively on clients in Queens and nearby areas. We not only know the bankruptcy code—we understand local trustees, court systems, and procedures, which helps you move through the process as smoothly as possible. Every case is different, but our goal remains the same: help you shed the burden of unmanageable debt and give you a clear path forward.

Choosing a bankruptcy attorney in Queens who understands the borough’s court system and trustees allows you to move confidently through each phase. We know how local judges interpret bankruptcy law and how the Eastern District of New York manages filings, giving you the benefit of our detailed local knowledge. Because we serve residents throughout Astoria, Forest Hills, Flushing, and other neighborhoods, we tailor services to match community needs and demographic trends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will Filing for Bankruptcy Stop Foreclosure or Wage Garnishment?

Filing for bankruptcy triggers an automatic stay, which usually stops most collection efforts, including foreclosure or wage garnishment. This protection generally takes effect the moment the bankruptcy case is filed and lasts until the court discharges the debts or dismisses the case.

Can I Keep My Car or Home If I File for Bankruptcy in Queens?

New York exemptions often allow you to keep some or all equity in your home or vehicle, provided you meet certain requirements. The amount you can protect depends on which exemption set you use and your property’s value at the time you file.

Does Bankruptcy Affect My Immigration Status in New York?

Bankruptcy is a civil matter and does not directly affect your immigration status. However, you should consult a qualified bankruptcy attorney in Queens before filing, as personal financial history can sometimes influence other applications or proceedings.