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Filing Bankruptcy for the Second Time

Can I File for Bankruptcy More Than Once?

Michigan Bankruptcy AttorneyMany people are surprised to learn that you can file for bankruptcy more than once. If you are experiencing financial problems and were previously granted a bankruptcy, our Michigan bankruptcy lawyer can make sure that you are fully informed of the laws pertaining to a second filing and how they apply to your particular situation.

The same first-time procedures for filing apply to your second time as well, including:

  • Credit counseling class before your petition is filed
  • A bankruptcy hearing
  • Completing a financial management class after your hearing and before your case is officially

Need to file bankruptcy a second time? Reach out to my office in Sterling Heights for a free consultation on your options.

How Often Can You File for Bankruptcy in Michigan?

When filing for a second bankruptcy in Michigan, different waiting periods apply depending on your past and current filing.

When filing for bankruptcy a second time, the following waiting periods apply:

  • Previous Chapter 7 filing and filing again: 8 Years
  • Previous Chapter 13 filing and filing again: 4 Years
  • Previous Chapter 13 filing, now filing Chapter 7: 6 Years
  • Previous Chapter 7 filing, now filing Chapter 13: 2 Years

You must also meet specific income requirements, and you must not have been barred previously by the bankruptcy court.

The bankruptcy process can be complex, especially if you are filing for a second time. Not only will you need to meet the requirements for a second filing, but your creditors may also be more difficult to work with. You should also expect the court to conduct a thorough review of your finances before a second bankruptcy is approved.

Attentive Service Through Your Second Bankruptcy Filing

As a Michigan bankruptcy attorney, I will work with you one-on-one, and make sure you are in full compliance with filing statutes before your petition is submitted. My firm assists individuals Sterling Heights and Warren, as well as in Madison Heights, Royal Oak and Clinton Township.

I provide my clients with a very high level of service and can discuss how to proceed with a second filing during a free initial consultation.

Client Testimonials

  • Tom Hensel is definitely the right attorney to call!

    “I was referred to Tom Hensel by a friend. My first impression was not only was Tom professional but he's so kind and caring too. He helped my husband and I through an embarrassing, scary situation and definitely made it more positive one. He guided us through our options and helped us make the right decision for us which ended up being a chapter 7 bankruptcy. Tom was so knowledgeable and helped us throughout the whole process. He never once made us feel uncomfortable or dumb when we had questions. He was also very easy to get a hold of when questions would come up and would always return our calls and emails promptly. I strongly recommend Tom to anyone going through this kind of financial nightmare. Do yourselves a favor and call him right away. He will help you get on the right path again. Our only mistake was waiting so long to call him!! When we in court waiting our turn all the other attorneys referred to their clients as "The debtors" Tom on the other hand acknowledged us by our names. Little things mean a lot and that left a lasting impression with us. Tom Thank You again for all your help!!”

    Stacy S.

  • I greatly appreciate your time and effort.

    “It was a great pleasure and relief working with you through that tough time. I greatly appreciate your time and effort on our case. I will gladly and confidently recommend you to anyone I know facing a tough financial time requiring your expertise.”

    Jay

  • Thank you very much for getting us through this very hard time in our lives.

    “I just wanted to thank you very much, for getting us through this very hard time in our lives. You did an excellent job. If anyone I know is in need of a lawyer, we will surely give them your name. Again thanks.”

    John and Linda

  • You made a difficult experience so much easier.

    “Back a few years ago, you helped me through a bankruptcy. I still tell people how you made a difficult experience so much easier, with your clarity, support, and friendly approach to the law. I'm still very appreciative for all your help – it really helped to pull me out of a difficult place and put my life back on track.”

    Eric

  • Professional, competent, empathetic attorney.

    “My husband and I were forced into a position to file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. We were devastated and mortified that we had to choose that route, but Tom eased our stress about the filing and court hearing process, as he thoroughly explained what Chapter 7 entails, as well as exactly what to expect during and after the filing process; he was accurate on each point that he advised us on. Tom also kept in frequent contact with us and responded quickly to any questions or concerns that we had while we worked with him. Tom's expertise and tact was invaluable for us, and we will absolutely recommend him to any of our friends and relatives that may find themselves in similar positions to ours. Thank you, Tom, for your dedicated help during this process.”

    EJO