Southern California Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Lawyers

Serving Clients Throughout Carlsbad, Temecula, San Diego, and the Surrounding Areas

Feeling weighed down by debt even though you’re earning a steady income? You are not alone—and there are options to help you regain control. Chapter 13 bankruptcy was created to help you reorganize your debts into one manageable monthly payment so that you can regain financial stability.

At New Chapter Law Group, we guide you through every step of the Chapter 13 process. Thousands of clients across Southern California have trusted us for clear guidance, compassionate counsel, and affordable solutions that truly make a difference. With us, you’ll work directly with experienced Chapter 13 bankruptcy attorneys who help craft a personalized strategy tailored to your needs—so you can move forward with confidence.

Call (888) 296-4993 or reach out online to schedule a consultation to learn whether Chapter 13 bankruptcy is right for you. Initial consultations are free, and we can conduct them in person or over the phone.

Chapter 7 vs. Chapter 13 Bankruptcy

Both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy begin and end in much the same way. The moment you file, the law grants powerful protections that stop collection attempts—such as wage garnishments, foreclosures, bank account levies, and creditor harassment. At the conclusion of either chapter, successful completion results in the discharge of all dischargeable debts.

The differences between Chapter 7 and 13 lie in what happens between the beginning and the end:

• Length of the case: Chapter 7 cases typically last 3–4 months, while Chapter 13 cases usually span 3–5 years (36–60 months)
• Repayment requirements: Chapter 7 does not typically involve monthly payments. Chapter 13, however, requires a structured repayment plan where debts are consolidated into one manageable monthly payment—often lower than what you were paying before. A Chapter 13 plan may also help you reduce or eliminate interest repayment and in some cases even lower principal balances on secured debts. 
• Asset treatment: In Chapter 7, you may need to liquidate your unprotected (“nonexempt”) assets to repay creditors. In Chapter 13, you can keep those assets by including repayment for the nonexempt value in your repayment plan.
• Lien stripping: In certain situations, Chapter 13 bankruptcy offers a powerful tool called lien stripping. This relief is unique to Chapter 13 and is not available in Chapter 7 cases. Lien stripping allows you to remove wholly unsecured junior mortgage liens—such as a second mortgage or home equity line—from your primary residence. For homeowners, lien stripping can be a critical step toward reducing debt burdens and protecting long-term financial stability.