Business Details
32 Years
experience
Your Trusted Bankruptcy Lawyer in Portland
I have been a Portland bankruptcy lawyer since 1994, dedicated to providing compassionate, skilled legal representation for individuals facing financial hardship. With over 27 years of experience and more than 2,000 successful bankruptcy cases filed in Oregon, I prioritize personalized client service, ensuring every client receives direct attention without delegation to paralegals. My practice focuses on Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcies, debt settlement, and foreclosure prevention, emphasizing transparency, affordability, and clear communication. Backed by glowing client testimonials, I offer free consultations to help clients understand their options and achieve a fresh financial start. 
Services
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
Foreclosure Prevention
Debt Settlement
Credit Counseling
Bankruptcy Exemptions
Reaffirmation Agreements
Post-Bankruptcy Guidance
Tax Debt Resolution
Creditor Harassment Protection
Details
- Year established: 1994
Highlights and features
- 27 years of experience with over 2,000 successful Oregon bankruptcy cases.
- Personalized service: Direct attorney-client interaction without paralegal involvement.
- Free initial consultations for bankruptcy and debt relief options.
- Transparent fees and commitment to affordable legal solutions.
- Proven track record in Chapter 7/13 filings and creditor negotiation.
What people say
Knowledgeable and compassionate
Personalized attention
Stress-free process
Affordable rates
Responsive communication
Services
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
Chapter 7 bankruptcy eliminates unsecured debts through asset liquidation for Oregon residents. Ideal for those with limited income, it halts creditor harassment and garnishments. Most clients retain exempt properties like homes and vehicles. The process takes 90-100 days, culminating in debt discharge, allowing financial recovery without long-term repayment plans.
Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
Chapter 13 reorganizes debts into a 3-5 year repayment plan, protecting assets from foreclosure or repossession. Designed for debtors with steady income, it consolidates payments to a court-appointed trustee. This option is ideal for curing mortgage arrears, managing tax debts, and stopping wage garnishments while maintaining future financial stability through structured payments.
Foreclosure Prevention
Foreclosure prevention services leverage Chapter 13 bankruptcy to halt home sales and restructure mortgage arrears. By filing early, clients gain up to five years to repay overdue amounts while retaining property. Personalized strategies include refinancing referrals and FHA programs during bankruptcy, ensuring homeownership continuity amid financial hardship.
Debt Settlement
Debt settlement explores alternatives to bankruptcy through creditor negotiation. By analyzing financial circumstances, clients may reduce total debt via lump-sum payments or revised terms. This service suits those with manageable debt levels seeking to avoid bankruptcy's legal implications while achieving sustainable debt resolution.
Credit Counseling
Mandatory credit counseling prepares clients for bankruptcy filing, offering low-cost online options. Post-filing guidance helps rebuild credit scores through responsible financial practices. Services include budgeting advice and access to affordable counseling partners, ensuring compliance with legal requirements and long-term financial health.
People
Brian Wheeler
Attorney At Law
Licensed in Oregon since 1992, Brian Wheeler specializes in bankruptcy law, helping over 2,000 clients since 1994. He prioritizes direct client interaction, offering personalized service without paralegals. Known for transparency and affordability, he provides free consultations and remote support.
Questions
How does bankruptcy stop creditor harassment?
Filing bankruptcy triggers an automatic stay, legally requiring creditors to cease all collection attempts immediately, including calls, lawsuits, and garnishments.
Will I lose property in Chapter 7?
Most clients retain exempt property like homes, vehicles, and tax refunds due to Oregon's federal exemption laws protecting essential assets.
Can I keep my car after filing bankruptcy?
Yes, through reaffirmation agreements or exemptions, allowing you to retain your vehicle provided payments continue or equity falls within exempt limits.
How long does Chapter 13 take?
Chapter 13 bankruptcy lasts 3-5 years, during which a court-approved repayment plan consolidates debts through monthly trustee payments.
Is credit recovery possible after bankruptcy?
Yes, credit scores often improve within a year post-discharge as responsible financial habits are reestablished, removing bankruptcy stigma over time.
What debt types survive bankruptcy?
Non-dischargeable debts include student loans, child support, and recent taxes. Chapter 13 may restructure these into manageable repayment plans.
