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Michigan Credit Counseling Attorney

Personalized Guidance Through Credit Counseling in MI

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.

What Does Credit Counseling Mean?

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

  • 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

  • Mr. Hensel walked me through every step.

    “I would highly recommend the Hensel Law Office!! Mr. Hensel walked me through every step, got my garnishments stopped very quickly (even got garnished wages returned to me!) and told me what to expect along the way. He answered all of my questions in a very timely manner- no matter what time I sent an email or gave him a phone call. Also, I felt his price was very reasonable compared to some of the other places that I called. Mr. Hensel answered plenty of questions that I had before I even became a client.”

    Carl

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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