Tulsa & Broken Arrow Chapter 7 Lawyer

If you’re overwhelmed by debt, you are not alone. Many hardworking people in Tulsa find themselves unable to keep up with bills, creditors, and unexpected life events. Chapter 7 bankruptcy is a legal tool that offers relief, a clean break from unmanageable debt, and a way to rebuild your future with dignity. At Eggert Law Firm, we’ve helped hundreds of Oklahomans start fresh by using the power of bankruptcy law the right way.

What is Chapter 7 Bankruptcy?

Chapter 7 is commonly called “straight” bankruptcy or “liquidation.” It allows individuals and some businesses to eliminate most unsecured debts. This includes credit card debt, personal loans, payday loans, and medical bills. It’s a chance to wipe the slate clean and move forward without the burden of old financial mistakes or circumstances out of your control.

Once your Chapter 7 case is filed, the court places an automatic stay on collections. That means creditors must stop calling, sending bills, garnishing your wages, or threatening lawsuits. This alone brings peace of mind that many of our clients haven’t felt in months or even years.

Who Qualifies for Chapter 7 in Oklahoma?

Not everyone qualifies for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, but many do. The key requirement is that your household income must be below a certain threshold based on family size in Oklahoma. If your income is higher, you may still qualify based on allowed expenses and debts through something called the “means test.”

You may not qualify if you’ve recently filed for bankruptcy or received a discharge. You’ll also need to complete a credit counseling course before you file, and a debtor education course before your debts are discharged.

Even if you aren’t eligible for Chapter 7, you may still have options like Chapter 13 bankruptcy or debt negotiation.

What Debts Can Be Discharged in Chapter 7?

Chapter 7 typically eliminates most unsecured debts. That includes:

• Credit card balances

• Medical bills

• Personal loans

• Collection accounts

• Utility bills

• Some older tax debts

However, some debts are not wiped away. These include:

• Student loans (except in rare hardship cases)

• Child support and alimony

• Court fines and criminal restitution

• Recent income taxes

• Debts from fraud or intentional harm

During your consultation, we’ll review which of your debts can be discharged and which ones may need to be handled another way.

Do I Lose Everything in Chapter 7?

One of the most common fears people have is that they’ll lose everything they own. In most Chapter 7 cases, you don’t.

Oklahoma law provides exemptions that protect many types of property, such as:

• Your home (up to an unlimited amount if it’s your primary residence)

• One vehicle per licensed household member

• Furniture and appliances

• Retirement accounts

• Work tools and equipment

• Certain levels of equity in other items

Most of our clients keep all their property. If you do have valuable non-exempt assets, we’ll advise you on how to proceed and whether Chapter 7 is the right path.

What is the Chapter 7 Process Like?

Filing for bankruptcy doesn’t have to be scary. With the right attorney, it’s manageable and straightforward. Here’s a simplified look at the Chapter 7 process:

Consultation – We review your full financial picture. You’ll get honest guidance on whether Chapter 7 is a good fit.

Document Collection – We help you gather pay stubs, tax returns, asset lists, bills, and other required documents.

Credit Counseling – You complete a mandatory online course before filing.

Filing the Petition – We file your bankruptcy petition with the court. At this point, collections stop.

Trustee Review – A bankruptcy trustee is assigned to your case. They may request additional information.

Meeting of Creditors – You attend a short, informal meeting (typically by phone) with the trustee. Creditors rarely attend.

Debtor Education Course – You complete a second online course to finalize your discharge.

Discharge – After about 3 to 6 months, your qualifying debts are erased and your case is closed.

Throughout this process, we’re with you at every step.

Chapter 7 vs Chapter 13

Chapter 7 eliminates debts quickly but requires that you meet income and asset limits. Chapter 13 is a repayment plan lasting 3 to 5 years, which may be better for people who want to catch up on mortgage payments, prevent foreclosure, or who have higher incomes.

During your consultation, we’ll explain both paths clearly so you can make the best choice for your situation.

How Bankruptcy Affects Your Credit

There’s no sugar-coating it. Bankruptcy will appear on your credit report. Chapter 7 stays on for ten years. However, many people find their credit improves faster than they expected.

If you’re already missing payments, in collections, or maxed out on cards, your score is likely already suffering. Filing for bankruptcy can actually stop the bleeding and give you a way to rebuild.

Within a year, many people qualify for secured credit cards, car loans, and even mortgages within two to three years. We also provide post-bankruptcy guidance to help you rebuild responsibly.

Why Work With Eggert Law Firm

Bankruptcy is a federal legal process, but the experience you have depends entirely on who represents you. At Eggert Law, we bring:

• Over two decades of bankruptcy experience

• Deep knowledge of Oklahoma-specific exemptions and court practices

• A personalized, non-judgmental approach

• Upfront pricing and clear communication

We understand the emotional and financial toll that debt takes. You won’t be treated like a number here. We take time to understand your full situation and offer real guidance.

Common Myths About Bankruptcy

• Myth: I’ll never be able to get credit again.
  Fact: Many people qualify for new credit within months after a discharge.
• Myth: I’ll lose my house and car.
  Fact: Most clients keep all their assets, especially with Oklahoma’s generous exemptions.
• Myth: Everyone will know I filed.
  Fact: Bankruptcy filings are public, but unless you’re a public figure, most people will never know.
• Myth: It means I failed.
  Fact: Bankruptcy is a legal option created for real people going through tough times. It’s not failure — it’s a smart step forward.

How to Get Started

The hardest part is often making the first call to a trusted Tulsa or Broken Arrow Bankruptcy Lawyer. We understand. But once you take that step, you’ll feel the relief of finally taking control.

We offer confidential consultations to walk through your situation and explain your options. There is no pressure. Just clear, honest legal advice.