What types of debt relief services does DebtPros – Wonais Law Firm offer?

We provide assistance with Chapter 7 bankruptcy, Chapter 13 bankruptcy, foreclosure defense, and other debt relief options tailored to your financial situation.

How do I know if I qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy?

Eligibility depends on your income, assets, and overall debt load. Our attorneys can review your finances and perform a “means test” to determine if Chapter 7 is right for you.

Will filing for bankruptcy stop creditor harassment?

Yes. Once your bankruptcy is filed, an automatic stay goes into effect, which legally requires creditors to stop collection calls, lawsuits, wage garnishments, and other harassment.

Can bankruptcy help me save my home from foreclosure?

Chapter 13 bankruptcy can help you catch up on missed mortgage payments through a repayment plan, potentially saving your home from foreclosure.

How long does the bankruptcy process take in Illinois?

A Chapter 7 case typically takes 3–6 months, while a Chapter 13 repayment plan lasts 3–5 years, depending on your financial situation.

What debts are dischargeable in Chapter 13 bankruptcy?

Chapter 13 discharges many unsecured debts like credit cards, medical bills, and personal loans after plan completion. Non-dischargeable debts include child support, alimony, most student loans, certain taxes, and debts from fraud or malicious acts. Secured debts must be paid if you wish to keep the collateral.

Will filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy stop wage garnishments and collection calls?

Yes, filing for Chapter 7 triggers an automatic stay, halting garnishments, collection calls, lawsuits, and most creditor actions. It provides temporary relief until debts are discharged. However, child support, alimony, and some tax debts are not covered.

Can filing for bankruptcy stop a foreclosure?

Yes. Bankruptcy can stop foreclosure and may give you up to five years to repay mortgage arrears through a Chapter 13 repayment plan.

Our house is paid off, but our other debts are too much. My wages are being taken, and now we are being sued. Can I go bankrupt and still keep my house?

Yes. Filing for bankruptcy can stop creditors from taking your house, wages, or other assets. It gives you the chance to resolve debt issues while keeping your home.

Can bankruptcy stop the IRS or the Illinois Department of Revenue from collecting?

Yes. Bankruptcy halts debt collection, including by the IRS and Illinois Department of Revenue. In some cases, attorneys can help reduce or eliminate penalties, interest, and old tax debts through negotiation.

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The founder of DebtPros

Practices Bankruptcy Law

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Client Testimonials

What Our Clients Say

Very fast professional and makes you feel safe from debt I recommend John to anyone

- Wise Guy

Love the service he’s very understanding Five stars he definitely get that from me He helped me and answered every question me and my daughter asked him lol cool dude thanks John for the help and being understanding keep up the good work and continue blessings people with your knowledge and service

- Latoya Jefferson

Extremely helpful. I felt really safe about the process. John is extremely helpful and knowledgeable. Any questions I had were addressed immediately and the entire process was quick and easy.

- Erica Walls

Working with John has been great! From start, to finish, John has been extremely helpful and I really appreciate he and his team! Highly recommend!

- Brittney Moss

John is excellent and answers all my questions in a timely fashion and getting my case filed. I would definitely file bankruptcy with this firm again in the near future when needed. I can now rest assured that I’m doing business with a firm that I can trust and to help me be debt free and get my finances back to where it should be. One of the best firms to do business with.

- Lisa Brooks

About our service

Chicago Bankruptcy Lawyer

Q: Will I have to attend court in Chicago for my bankruptcy case?

Yes, but in most cases you will not appear before a judge. Chicago residents must attend a 341 meeting of creditors, typically held online or at the trustee’s office. This short meeting allows the trustee and creditors to ask questions. Most debtors find this straightforward with an attorney’s guidance.

Q: Can I keep my home if I file bankruptcy in Chicago?

Illinois law allows exemptions to protect certain assets. For Chicago homeowners, the Illinois homestead exemption protects up to $15,000 of equity in a primary residence ($30,000 for married couples filing jointly). Whether you can keep your home depends on mortgage debt and equity, but Chapter 13 often helps families prevent foreclosure while catching up on missed payments.

Q: How does bankruptcy affect car ownership in Chicago?

Chicago residents can protect up to $2,400 in motor vehicle equity under Illinois exemptions. If financed, Chapter 13 may restructure missed payments, while Chapter 7 may allow surrendering the car and discharging debt. Many debtors keep their vehicles with careful planning and attorney guidance.

Q: Are wage garnishments common in Chicago, and can bankruptcy stop them?

Yes, wage garnishments are common in Cook County. Once you file for bankruptcy in Chicago, the automatic stay immediately halts garnishments, repossessions, and most collection actions, giving residents instant relief and financial stability.

Q: How much does it cost to file bankruptcy in Chicago?

As of 2025, the federal filing fee for Chapter 7 is $338, and Chapter 13 costs $313. These fees are the same nationwide. Additional Chicago attorney fees or trustee-related costs may apply depending on case complexity.

Q: Is Chapter 7 bankruptcy right for me?

To qualify for Chapter 7, individuals must pass a means test comparing income to Illinois median income. If below median, you likely qualify; if above, allowable expense deductions may still allow eligibility. Illinois exemptions include up to $15,000 in home equity ($30,000 if married), $4,000 wildcard personal property, and $2,400 vehicle equity.

Q: Is Chapter 13 bankruptcy for me?

Chapter 13 may suit Illinois residents with steady income who want to reorganize debts instead of liquidating assets. It allows property retention while repaying creditors over 3–5 years under a court-approved plan. It benefits those behind on mortgage payments or secured debts. Eligibility requires unsecured debts under $465,275 and secured debts under $1,395,875.

Q: How long does a Chapter 13 repayment plan last?

A Chapter 13 repayment plan lasts three to five years. If income is below the Illinois median, a three-year plan is possible, extendable to five if necessary. Above-median income generally requires five years. Payments are made to a trustee, who distributes funds to creditors.

At Debt Pros - Wonais Law Firm, our bankruptcy attorneys are dedicated to helping you get the debt relief you deserve. Struggling with large amounts of debt can be overwhelming. However, filing for bankruptcy can offer you a fresh start. If you’re being harassed by creditors or facing foreclosure, repossession actions, or wage garnishments, contact a Chicago bankruptcy lawyer at DebtPros to regain control of your financial situation.

We have years of experience handling bankruptcy cases. We can assess your case and determine which chapter of bankruptcy is best suited for you: Chapter 7, Chapter 13, or any other applicable chapter.

Unlike other Chicago law firms, we provide personalized legal advice tailored to your needs. An attorney who initially evaluates your case will work closely with you throughout the entire case. Trust us to protect your finances and guide you through the complex Chicago bankruptcy process.

Explore Bankruptcy With DebtPros

Bankruptcy law Chicago helps regain financial stability, but filing a petition under it can be complex and confusing.

For example, you may find relief in Chapter 7 if you have unsecured debts, like credit card debt or medical bills. Others may benefit from Chapter 13, which reorganizes your debt into a more manageable repayment plan.

Our Chicago bankruptcy attorneys can guide you through the complexities of the process and help you make informed decisions about your financial future.

What Is Chapter 7 Bankruptcy?

Chapter 7 bankruptcy is also known as liquidation bankruptcy. It helps individuals and businesses wipe out their unsecured debt. It includes credit card balances, medical bills, personal loans, or any other debt not secured by collateral.

If you’re grappling with a mountain of debt, you are not alone. The average taxpayer in Chicago, IL, carries a debt burden of $41,900, ranking second highest in the U.S.

Under Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Chicago, you may be able to eliminate these overwhelming unsecured debts and get a fresh start.

However, you must pass the means test to be eligible for it. This test compares your income with the median income for a household of your size in Illinois. If your income is below the median, you may qualify for it. If it’s above, Chapter 13 bankruptcy might be a better option for you.

Filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy offers several benefits:

The process is relatively short compared to other types of bankruptcy, typically taking only 4 to 6 months to complete.
It discharges most of your unsecured debts, and the law does not compel you to pay them.

What Is Chapter 13 Bankruptcy?

Chapter 13 bankruptcy in Chicago is often called a wage earner's plan. If you have a stable income but are overwhelmed by debt and concerned about losing your assets, like your car or home, Chapter 13 bankruptcy might be a better choice.

It's designed for people with a stable income who can repay their debts gradually over time. It allows you to create a payment plan to repay your debts (or a portion of them) over three to five years. To be eligible for it, you must have enough income left after expenses to meet repayment plan obligations.

Chapter 13 offers several benefits:

It allows you to keep valuable assets that are at risk, like your car and property.
It creates a repayment plan based on your income and expenses, making it more manageable for you to repay your debts over time.
It protects you against the foreclosure or repossession of your assets as long as you make your scheduled payments.

By the end of the repayment plan, you'll be in a stronger financial position as most of your debt will have been eliminated.

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Case Map

Our Process

Our experienced Chicago bankruptcy attorneys at DebtPros follow a systematic approach to ensure you receive the best possible outcome for your financial future. While every case is unique, here is a step-by-step guide on how the process typically goes:

Free Consultation

When you schedule a free consultation with our law firm, you can expect a confidential conversation where we learn about your financial situation and discuss your options for debt relief. We gather information about your income, expenses, debts, and assets.

After assessing your financial situation, our experienced bankruptcy attorney gives personalized advice on whether Chapter 7 bankruptcy or Chapter 13 is the best option for you.

Bankruptcy Counseling

Before filing for bankruptcy, you must take a credit counseling course in Chicago. This course teaches crucial things about money management and the bankruptcy process. It's a legal requirement, and you must complete it with an agency approved by the U.S. Trustee in Illinois. We can take care of everything for you, including enrolling you in the classes, so all you have to do is attend the online classes.

Filing the Petition

Our skilled Chicago bankruptcy lawyers can handle all the paperwork, draft a petition, and submit it to the local bankruptcy court on your behalf. We will present your case effectively, so you can start a new chapter of your life, free from debt. We can also prepare this petition virtually, so you don’t need to come to the office in person.

Automatic Stay

The moment our Chicago bankruptcy attorney files your bankruptcy case, an automatic stay comes into effect. It is like a shield that stops creditors from directly contacting you or staking a claim on your property. If creditors are harassing you or you’re facing foreclosure, the automatic stay can provide immediate relief.

Meeting of Creditors

The meeting of creditors is also known as the 341 meeting. About a month after filing, you will attend a virtual meeting of creditors. In this meeting, you will meet the trustee and any creditors. You'll answer questions about your finances and the bankruptcy filing. To support you, your DebtPros attorney in Chicago will also join this meeting and accompany you every step of the way.

Completion of a Financial Management Course

You must complete a financial management course to discharge your debt. It helps you navigate your finances moving forward and is a prerequisite for getting rid of your debt. These courses are available online, and DebtPros bankruptcy law firm in Chicago will make all the arrangements.

Debt Discharge or Reorganization Plan Approval

The final step depends on the type of bankruptcy you file for.

If you file for Chapter 7 and all goes well, the court will issue a discharge order. As a result, it will eliminate most of your unsecured debt. However, in some rare cases, there might be pending litigation objecting to discharge, which might impact the order.

If you file for Chapter 13, the court will approve your repayment plan if it meets the necessary criteria. As a result, you will get a chance to clear your debt over three to five years, allowing you to retain your assets while paying off your debts at a pace you can manage.

Automatic Stay

The moment our Chicago bankruptcy attorney files your bankruptcy case, an automatic stay comes into effect. It is like a shield that stops creditors from directly contacting you or staking a claim on your property. If creditors are harassing you or you're facing foreclosure, the automatic stay can provide immediate relief.

Meeting of Creditors

The meeting of creditors is also known as the 341 meeting. About a month after filing, you will attend a virtual meeting of creditors. In this meeting, you will meet the trustee and any creditors. You'll answer questions about your finances and the bankruptcy filing. To support you, your DebtPros attorney will also join this meeting and accompany you every step of the way.

Completion of a Financial Management Course

Debt Discharge or Reorganization Plan Approval

The final step depends on the type of bankruptcy you file for.

Why Choose Our Chicago Bankruptcy Lawyer

Deep Roots in Chicago and Surrounding Neighborhoods

At DebtPros, we are proud to serve clients across Chicago and nearby communities, including Lincoln Park, Hyde Park, Lakeview, Logan Square, Wicker Park, and the greater Cook County area. DebtPros founder, John Wonais, is a life-long Chicago resident. With years of local knowledge and experience, we understand the financial pressures many Chicago families face. We bring not only legal expertise but also an understanding of the unique financial circumstances affecting residents in our city.

Extensive Legal Skills and Experience

Bankruptcy is governed by a complex system of laws, and even one misstep can put your case at risk. Our attorneys bring decades of combined experience and a deep knowledge of both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 filings. We explain how the bankruptcy code applies to your case, protect you from creditor harassment, and ensure that all paperwork and deadlines are handled with precision. With our guidance, you can move through the process with confidence that your rights and assets are being protected.

Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Guidance

Our attorneys focus on both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy services in Chicago. For individuals facing overwhelming debt from high credit card balances or medical bills, Chapter 7 offers a fresh start by discharging qualifying debts. For those with steady income but behind on mortgage debt or car payments, Chapter 13 allows a structured repayment plan under the bankruptcy code. We carefully evaluate your situation to recommend the most effective option for lasting debt relief.

Debt Consolidation, Negotiation, and Settlement

Not every client requires bankruptcy to resolve their financial difficulties. We provide debt settlement and negotiation services for those who may benefit from consolidating or restructuring what they owe. As your debt relief agency, we engage directly with creditors to reduce balances, lower interest, and arrange more manageable monthly payments. By personalizing our strategies to your individual financial circumstances, we work to preserve your assets and protect your long-term financial health.

Protection from Creditor Harassment

Creditor harassment can make an already difficult financial situation feel unbearable. Our attorneys step in to shield clients from aggressive collection tactics, wage garnishments, bank levies, and repossession threats. Once we represent you, creditors are legally required to direct communication through us, bringing peace of mind and allowing you to focus on regaining control of your finances.

Asset Protection and Mortgage Assistance

For many Chicago families, the home is their most important asset. Falling behind on mortgage debt payments may lead to foreclosure, but with our guidance, you may be able to keep your home through the protections offered under the bankruptcy code. We also assist clients in safeguarding motor vehicles, personal property, and retirement accounts using applicable exemptions.

Quality Legal Services with a Personal Approach

What sets DebtPros apart is our commitment to delivering quality legal services that are personalized to each client. We recognize that no two financial struggles are alike. Whether you are managing medical bills, credit card debt, or business-related obligations, we take the time to listen and design a legal strategy that fits your life. Our combination of legal expertise and compassion ensures that you are not just a case file but a valued individual seeking a path forward.

Partnering with DebtPros for a Fresh Start

Choosing a bankruptcy attorney is a major decision, and having the right team by your side can change the outcome of your financial future. At DebtPros, we guide Chicago residents through every step of the process, whether it involves filing for bankruptcy, exploring debt settlement, or defending against creditors. If you are ready to move beyond overwhelming debt, our attorneys are here to help you with your goals to achieve a fresh start.

To schedule your free consultation, call us at (312) 847-3475 or contact us online.

Practice Areas

Bankruptcy Law

Chapter 7

Chapter 13

Consumer Bankruptcy

Consumer Bankruptcy

Repossession

Asset Protection

Credit Card Debt

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions About Bankruptcy

These are some of the most frequently asked questions our legal team hears from our personal injury clients. Contact our law office for a free consultation for a specific answer about your case.

Get In Touch

If you have any other questions about the bankruptcy process in Chicago, feel free to get in touch with us.

How long does a bankruptcy case take in Chicago?

In Chicago, a typical Chapter 7 bankruptcy case filed through the Northern District of Illinois Bankruptcy Court usually takes about four to six months from filing to discharge. A Chapter 13 case, on the other hand, involves a repayment plan that lasts three to five years. The exact timing depends on your specific financial situation, but most cases in Chicago follow these general timelines.

Where do I file for bankruptcy in Chicago?

All bankruptcy filings for Chicago residents go through the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Illinois, located at the Dirksen Federal Building, 219 S. Dearborn Street in downtown Chicago. This courthouse handles both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 cases for Cook County and surrounding areas. Many hearings are also conducted virtually, which makes the process more accessible for residents across the city and suburbs.

Will I have to attend court in Chicago for my bankruptcy case?

Yes, but in most cases, you will not appear before a judge. Instead, Chicago residents must attend a “341 meeting of creditors,” which typically takes place online or at the bankruptcy trustee’s office. This short meeting allows the trustee and creditors to ask basic questions about your financial circumstances. Most Chicago debtors find this process straightforward with the guidance of their attorney.

Can I keep my home if I file bankruptcy in Chicago?

Illinois law allows you to use exemptions to protect certain assets. For Chicago homeowners, the Illinois homestead exemption protects up to $15,000 of equity in your primary residence ($30,000 for married couples filing jointly). Whether you can keep your home depends on the amount of mortgage debt and the available equity, but Chapter 13 often allows families in Chicago to save their homes from foreclosure while catching up on missed payments.

How does bankruptcy affect car ownership in Chicago?

Chicago residents are allowed to protect up to $2,400 in motor vehicle equity under Illinois exemptions. If your car is financed, Chapter 13 may allow you to restructure missed payments, while Chapter 7 may let you surrender the car and discharge the debt if keeping it is not practical. Many Chicago debtors successfully keep their vehicles through careful planning with their attorney.

Are wage garnishments common in Chicago, and can bankruptcy stop them?

Yes, wage garnishments are frequently used by creditors in Cook County to collect unpaid debts. Once you file for bankruptcy in Chicago, the automatic stay immediately halts garnishments, repossessions, and most collection actions. For many local residents in the city, this protection provides instant relief and allows them to regain financial stability.

How much does it cost to file bankruptcy in Chicago?

As of 2025, the federal filing fee for Chapter 7 bankruptcy is $338, while Chapter 13 costs $313. These fees are the same nationwide, but you may have to pay additional Chicago attorney fees and some other charges based on the complexity of your case. In Cook County and the surrounding districts, there may also be court-specific administrative costs or trustee-related expenses that vary depending on your filing.

Is Chapter 7 bankruptcy right for me?

To qualify for a Chapter 7 bankruptcy, individuals must pass a means test comparing their income to the median income for a similar household in Illinois. If their income is below the median, they likely qualify; if above, they may still qualify after deducting certain allowable expenses.

Illinois has its own set of exemptions to protect essential assets from liquidation, such as up to $15,000 in equity in a primary residence (or $30,000 if married and filing jointly), $4,000 in personal property, called the “wildcard” exemption, and $2,400 in equity in a motor vehicle.

Is Chapter 13 bankruptcy for me?

Chapter 13 bankruptcy may be suitable for Illinois residents who have a steady income and wish to reorganize their debts rather than liquidate assets. Unlike Chapter 7, Chapter 13 allows individuals to keep their property while repaying creditors over a three to five year period, based on a court-approved plan. This option is particularly beneficial for those who are behind on mortgage payments or other secured debts and want to avoid foreclosure or repossession. Illinois residents must meet certain eligibility criteria, including having unsecured debts of less than $465,275 and secured debts of less than $1,395,875.

How long does a Chapter 13 repayment plan last?

The length of a Chapter 13 repayment plan is typically three to five years. The specific duration depends on your income level relative to the median income for a similar household in your state. If your income is below the median, you may propose a three-year plan, although it can be extended to five years if necessary to meet the plan’s requirements. If your income is above the median, the plan generally must be for five years. During this period, you will make regular payments to a bankruptcy trustee, who will distribute the funds to your creditors according to the terms of the approved plan.

Choose DebtPros to Claim Your Financial Freedom

Call DebtPros today at (312) 883-5422 or contact us online to request a free consultation and start wiping your debt slate clean.

We are a bankruptcy law firm led by John Wonais, a lifelong Chicago resident who knows and understands the city and its unique financial challenges.

We don't shy away from a fight. John Wonais, our lead attorney, proved this by taking a case against the City of Chicago to the United States Supreme Court.

With this level of dedication, we have helped many clients escape different types of debts.

Attorney at Law

Meet John Wonais

Attorney John Peter Wonais is the founder of Wonais Law, LLC, D/B/A DebtPros. Born and raised in the Chicagoland area, John understands the unique challenges people face in Chicago and has a deep-rooted passion for protecting the...