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Michigan Credit Counseling Attorney

Who is required to undergo credit counseling in Michigan?

If you have made the decision to file for bankruptcy in Michigan, it is important to understand that you will be required to complete numerous pre-filing requirements before submitting your petition to the court. In fact, your case could be dismissed or rejected if you fail to complete an approved credit counseling course within the 180 days leading up to your filing—as this became a mandatory requirement for all personal bankruptcies in October of 2005. For this reason, the Michigan bankruptcy attorney at Hensel Law Office, PLLC asks you to take the time to adequately prepare for the process ahead. While this may seem like nothing more than an inconvenience, credit counseling is a crucial part of any Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy case.

Understanding the Basics of Credit Counseling

In order to successfully request a discharge of debt from the bankruptcy court, you will need to first undergo a credit counseling course that has been approved by the U.S. Trustee's Office. It typically costs about $50 for a 60 to 90-minute session, but you can request a fee waiver if you cannot afford to pay. Once you have selected a credit counseling agency, you can complete the course in person, over the phone or online—wherein you will discuss all possible alternatives to bankruptcy, evaluate your finances and develop a personal budget plan. At the conclusion of the session, you will receive a certificate of completion that will need to be included in your bankruptcy petition. If this certificate is not submitted with the rest of your paperwork, your case could be rejected.

How do I know if the credit counseling agency is approved?

While you can find a credit counseling agency that has been approved by the U.S. Trustee's Office by signing up through a reputable online service, our firm recommends that you move forward under the advisement of a Michigan bankruptcy lawyer. In doing so, you can ensure that your case is not dismissed or subjected to any unnecessary delays. For this reason, we encourage you to get started today by contacting our office for a free consultation. Our firm welcomes the opportunity to walk you through the bankruptcy process step by step, so do not hesitate to reach out today.

When you call at (888) 258-0651, you will have the opportunity to schedule an appointment at your own convenience—even if it's in the evening or on the weekend.

Client Testimonials

  • His knowledge and expertise made a very difficult time in our lives much easier.

    “From start to finish our experience with Mr. Hensel was great. He carefully and thoroughly explained the entire process to us and was always available for any questions or concerns we had. His knowledge and expertise made a very difficult time in our lives much easier. We are very thankful for his help in our situation.”

    Christine and John

  • Sincerest thanks for all of your help in affording me what I consider a real "fresh start."

    “I wanted to give you my sincerest thanks for all of your help in affording me what I consider a real "fresh start". My divorce was unfortunate but definitely a needed change for the better. However, the financial side of things still seemed to keep that past linked, which makes this an enormous weight lifted. I just can't believe the impact it's made on my outlook with...everything.I will be sure to keep your business cards handy to distribute along with highly favorable words of recommendation should the needs arise.Thank you again for your time and professional guidance.”

    Michelle

  • We have and will continue to recommend you to others in need of a fresh start.

    “Dear Tom, my husband and I wanted to express our deepest thanks for the help you gave us during our embarrassing and stressful time. I was very impressed that you returned every phone call in a timely manner. You were able to explain exactly what was going to happen in words that "we" could understand. You answered every question we threw at you. The whole bankruptcy process from start to finish was complete in the time you told us it would take. Your professionalism yet friendliness made the whole experience for us almost enjoyable... almost! We have and will continue to recommend you to others in need of a fresh start.”

    Melissa

  • He is respectful and down to earth with his approach to very complicated legal matters.

    “Hensel Law Office has helped me during a very difficult time in my life. Tom has done a wonderful job with my Chapter 13 case. He always kept in touch with me and explained everything in terms I could understand. I would highly recommend Mr. Hensel to anyone who is facing any bankruptcy filing. He is respectful and down to earth with his approach to very complicated legal matters.”

    Sandra

  • We couldn't have gotten through this difficult process without Tom.

    “We couldn't have gotten through this difficult process without Tom. We evaluated a number of bankruptcy attorneys and found Tom to be the most knowledgeable and compassionate. He takes the time to explain all aspects of the process and answers your questions thoroughly and promptly both in person and via email. He knows the law and ensures that you receive the best treatment possible depending on your particular situation.”

    T & J