Business Details
49 Years
experience
Your Trusted Bankruptcy Attorneys in Dalton, GA
Hurtt & Johnson has served Northwest Georgia for over 40 years, providing personalized bankruptcy and consumer defense legal services. Our Dalton-based team specializes in Chapter 7, 13, 11, and 12 bankruptcies, with dedicated attorneys who attend all client meetings and court proceedings. We prioritize direct client communication, offering hour-long consultations and thorough case reviews. Our firm maintains deep roots in the local community through bar association involvement and service to residents across Dalton, Calhoun, Chatsworth, and surrounding areas.With AV Preeminent-rated attorneys and recognition from national bankruptcy institutes, we combine decades of experience with a commitment to protecting clients' rights against creditor harassment, garnishments, and foreclosure actions.
Services
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
Chapter 11 Reorganization
Chapter 12 Farm Bankruptcy
Consumer Defense
Credit Card Defense
Foreclosure Prevention
Debt Collection Defense
Details
- Year established: 1977
Highlights and features
- 40+ years of combined bankruptcy law experience
- Personalized attorney consultations lasting one hour
- Attorneys attend all trustee meetings with clients
- AV Preeminent-rated legal professionals
- Active members of local bar associations
Associations and certifications
- Martindale-Hubbell
- American Bankruptcy Institute
- Southeastern Bankruptcy Law Institute
Services
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
Chapter 7 bankruptcy provides debt relief through asset liquidation for qualifying individuals. This four-month process eliminates unsecured debts while protecting essential assets through Georgia exemptions. Our attorneys guide clients through means testing, paperwork preparation, and trustee meetings to achieve financial fresh starts while preserving property like homes and vehicles through reaffirmation agreements.
Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
Chapter 13 establishes 3-5 year repayment plans for debtors with regular income. This option stops foreclosures, restructures car loans, and manages tax debts while protecting assets. Our firm develops customized payment plans, represents clients at trustee meetings, and ensures completion of required financial management courses to achieve complete debt discharge upon plan fulfillment.
Chapter 11 Reorganization
Chapter 11 enables businesses to reorganize debts while maintaining operational control. Our attorneys develop reorganization plans that balance creditor interests with business sustainability. We represent debtors in possession through plan exclusivity periods, negotiate with creditors, and ensure compliance with complex bankruptcy court requirements for both large corporations and small business owners.
Chapter 12 Farm Bankruptcy
Chapter 12 provides specialized debt restructuring for family farmers. Our experienced attorneys navigate agricultural debt complexities, develop viable repayment plans, and protect farming operations from liquidation. We help clients utilize higher debt limits and unique provisions for farm mortgages and tax obligations related to agricultural asset sales.
Consumer Defense
Our consumer defense practice protects clients from creditor harassment and unlawful collection practices. We defend against credit card lawsuits, vehicle repossession deficiency claims, and wage garnishments while enforcing Fair Debt Collection Practices Act protections. The firm also represents clients in foreclosure defense and bankruptcy-related litigation matters.
People
Michael D. Hurtt
Managing Partner
Practicing law since 1977 with AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell. Specializes in consumer bankruptcy and defense litigation. Active community leader with roles at Dalton State College and local nonprofits. Vietnam-era Army veteran with B.S. from West Georgia College and J.D. from John Marshall Law School.
David W. Johnson
Partner
Joined firm in 2009 after Emory University Law School graduation. Focuses on small business bankruptcies and Chapter 12 farm reorganizations. Recipient of American Bankruptcy Institute's Medal of Excellence. Former Southeastern Bankruptcy Law Institute scholar with B.S. from UNC and J.D. from Emory University.
Questions
What bankruptcy options are available in Georgia?
Georgia offers Chapter 7 liquidation, Chapter 13 repayment plans, Chapter 11 business reorganization, and Chapter 12 farm bankruptcy. Our attorneys help determine which option best fits your financial situation.
Can bankruptcy stop wage garnishments?
Yes, filing bankruptcy immediately stops wage garnishments through the automatic stay provision. This provides immediate financial relief while developing long-term debt solutions.
How do I qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy?
Qualification requires passing the means test comparing income to Georgia's median. Our attorneys analyze your financial situation to determine eligibility for Chapter 7 or alternative bankruptcy options.
Will I lose my property in bankruptcy?
Georgia exemptions protect most personal property. Our attorneys review your assets to ensure protection of homes, vehicles, and retirement accounts during the bankruptcy process.
What happens at the trustee meeting?
The trustee reviews your bankruptcy petition and asks questions under oath. Our attorneys attend all trustee meetings with clients to ensure proper representation and address any concerns.
How does Chapter 13 differ from Chapter 7?
Chapter 13 establishes repayment plans for debtors with regular income, while Chapter 7 provides immediate debt discharge through asset liquidation. Our firm helps determine which option better suits your financial goals.
