Clear a Path Through Overwhelming Debt

Legal representation for bankruptcy filings in Hackettstown, New Jersey

If you are facing collection calls, mounting bills, and no clear way forward, filing for bankruptcy may offer the legal relief you need. In Hackettstown, many individuals reach a point where income no longer covers obligations, and creditors refuse to negotiate. Jonathan Stone ESQ CPA MST LLC works directly with clients who need a realistic assessment of their financial situation and a plan that aligns with federal bankruptcy law.

Bankruptcy representation begins with a detailed review of your income, assets, and liabilities to determine which legal options apply to your case. This includes understanding how New Jersey trustees evaluate your filing and what exemptions may protect your property. The process is consultation-driven, meaning every step is explained before you commit to a filing. Jonathan Stone ESQ CPA MST LLC has worked with New Jersey bankruptcy courts and trustees, so the focus remains on compliance, protection, and helping you achieve a financial reset.

If you live in Hackettstown and want to understand your legal options before making a decision, contact Jonathan Stone ESQ CPA MST LLC to schedule a consultation.

What happens during the evaluation and filing

Your case begins with a full intake meeting where you provide documentation of income, debts, assets, and monthly expenses. In Hackettstown, this meeting typically takes place in person or remotely, depending on your schedule and preferences. The goal is to map out whether you qualify for relief under Chapter 7 or Chapter 13, and what filing will mean for your property and future obligations.

Once your petition is prepared and filed, you will receive an automatic stay that stops most collection actions, including lawsuits, wage garnishments, and foreclosure proceedings. You will attend a meeting of creditors where a trustee reviews your filing under oath. Jonathan Stone ESQ CPA MST LLC prepares you for this meeting and represents you throughout the process.

After the trustee completes their review, the court issues a discharge or confirms a repayment plan, depending on the chapter you filed under. The service does not include post-discharge credit counseling or financial planning, but it does cover all legal representation required to complete your case in New Jersey bankruptcy court.

Most people considering bankruptcy want to know what they will lose, how long the process takes, and whether filing will stop the pressure they are under right now. These are the questions that come up most often during consultations.

You probably have a few questions before moving forward

Most unsecured debts such as credit cards, medical bills, and personal loans can be discharged. Student loans, recent taxes, and child support are generally not dischargeable under federal law.
What debts can be eliminated through bankruptcy?
Chapter 7 cases in New Jersey typically take three to four months from filing to discharge. Chapter 13 cases last three to five years depending on your repayment plan and income level.
How long does a bankruptcy case take to complete?
New Jersey law provides exemptions that may protect your home equity and vehicle up to certain amounts. Your attorney will review your assets and apply the exemptions that best protect your property during the filing process.
Will I lose my house or car if I file?
Once your petition is filed, an automatic stay goes into effect immediately. Creditors must stop all collection efforts, including phone calls, letters, lawsuits, and wage garnishments.
What happens to collection calls after I file?
Jonathan Stone holds licenses as both a CPA and an attorney, which means he can evaluate your tax liabilities and financial documents with technical depth that purely legal representation may not provide. This dual background is especially useful when tax debt or complex income issues are part of your case.
Why does working with a CPA and attorney matter?

If you are ready to stop the collection pressure and explore whether bankruptcy is the right tool for your situation, Jonathan Stone ESQ CPA MST LLC offers consultations that walk through your options in plain terms. Reach out today to start the conversation.