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Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Lawyer

Kansas City Chapter 7 Attorneys

Guiding Residents of Missouri’s Western District Through Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Filings

As one of Kansas City’s most trusted bankruptcy attorneys, our experienced team of lawyers can help you every step of the way to maximize your rights under Chapter 7.

When filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you need an experienced team in your corner. That’s why thousands of Kansas City residents have trusted the lawyers at Watton Law Group for the last 25+ years. With an unmatched attention to detail and a commitment to helping you succeed, our lawyers have developed a proven process that makes filing Chapter 7 easy and painless for you. We’ve made it our mission to help you eliminate your debt in an effort to live a more stable life.

The Chapter 7 bankruptcy lawyers at Watton Law Group can help you regain control of your finances and stop creditors from harassing you.

Contact Watton Law Group today to take the first step toward a more secure financial future with our Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Kansas City.

Understanding Chapter 7 Bankruptcy in Kansas City and the Western District of Missouri

Chapter 7 bankruptcy is the most common form of bankruptcy filed, and is often referred to as a “Wipe Out” or “Fresh Start.” The lawyers at Watton Law Group can help you leverage Chapter 7 and allow you to finally be debt-free. The process will begin by evaluating your finances to determine if Chapter 7 is right for you. After that, our knowledgeable attorneys will work with you to get a complete picture of your financial situation and identify the steps needed to get you on the path toward success. When you choose Watton Law Group, you’ll have unparalleled support throughout the entire process and we’ll ensure that you get the best possible outcome after filing for Chapter 7.

Watton Law Group has over 25 years of experience in helping our clients wipe out debt, including medical bills, credit card debt, and personal loans. Our lawyers have developed a detailed process that is tailored to your individual financial situation and helps you understand Chapter 7 with one goal in mind: your peace of mind.

How We Can Help Stop Debt Collection Phone Calls

Once Watton Law Group files Chapter 7 on your behalf, the court will order creditors to stop contacting you in any way. Similar to a restraining order, debt collectors will be forbidden from suing you, garnishing wages, issuing home foreclosures, repossessing your vehicle, or taking any further collection actions.

Filing Chapter 7 Bankruptcy With Watton Law Group in Kansas City

Watton Law Group is a Debt Relief Agency. We help people file for relief under the Bankruptcy Code.

Watton Law Group’s experienced Chapter 7 attorneys have perfected the filing process, making it as easy and painless as possible for you. When you choose us, you’ll have the support and strength of our team throughout each step to ensure everything is taken care of and you can get your finances back on track. Watton Law Group is dedicated to providing the highest level of legal service, and we’ll do everything we can to help you live a more financially stable life.

Contact Watton Law Group today at (816) 300-1302 to get started with our Kansas City Chapter 7 bankruptcy lawyer.

Common Questions From Kansas City Clients About Chapter 7 Bankruptcy

To qualify for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy in Missouri's Western District, individuals must pass the means test, which determines eligibility based on income compared to the state median. If your income is lower than the median, you automatically qualify. This process assesses whether you have enough disposable income to pay back debts. Watton Law Group can help you navigate this process, making it clear whether Chapter 7 is suitable for your situation.

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy typically takes four to six months from the filing date to the discharge of debts. During this time, the debtor will attend a meeting of creditors, known as a 341 meeting, which is usually scheduled about 30 days after your petition is filed. After this meeting and any creditor objections are resolved, you can often see a discharge within two to three months. Our team at Watton Law Group will be with you at each step to ensure timely processing.

Under Chapter 7 Bankruptcy, certain exemptions allow you to keep essential assets such as your home, car, and personal items up to a specific value. These exemptions are designed to help you maintain a basic standard of living while offering a fresh financial start. Depending on your situation, non-exempt assets might be liquidated to repay creditors. Watton Law Group will advise you on strategically protecting your most critical assets during this challenging time.

While filing for Chapter 7 will have an impact on your credit score, it’s the first important step in recovering your financial health. If you’re considering filing for bankruptcy, it is likely that your debt has already had a negative impact on your credit score. Furthermore, once you file, your debt-to-income ratio will instantly improve. While bankruptcy isn’t an instant fix, it certainly is a major step in the right direction.

Chapter 7 bankruptcy wipes the slate clean much more quickly than other forms of bankruptcy and does not require a payment plan, allowing you to take control of your financial future early on.

Serving Clients Throughout the Western District of Missouri From Our Kansas City Office

Watton Law Group is a full-service debt relief agency with the resources to tackle even the toughest cases. We offer unique insight into an array of services, tailoring our proven strategies to each case we take on.

Over 25+ years, we’ve grown into a national network, but we still maintain our strong local roots and caring approach to provide the highest level of personalized service to our clients. It’s why clients continually trust us to guide them through turbulent times.

Meet Your Team

Michael J. Watton, Esq.
Michael J. Maloney, Esq.
Timothy H. Hassell, Esq.
Thomas A. Arany, Esq.
Kirk M. Fedewa, Esq.
Robert K.S. Abernathy, Esq.
Bennett S. Stuckey, Esq.
Corrine E. Edwards, Esq.
Tyler D. Rasmussen, Esq.
Elizabeth J. Cho, Esq.
James M. Conley, Esq.
Paul K. Schwartz, Esq.
Cooper O. Neavill, Esq.
Eric J. Wunsch, Esq.
Lauren A. Suchan, Esq.
Judith K. Cranberg, Esq.
Michael J. Watton, Esq.
Senior Partner
Michael J. Watton, senior partner at Watton Law Group, is a nationally recognized bankruptcy attorney who helps overwhelmed individuals and families find debt-relief. His compassionate, practical approach not only resolves immediate financial crises but empowers clients to rediscover their true personal and economic value, emerge stronger, and thrive long-term.
Michael J. Maloney, Esq.
Managing Partner
Michael J. Maloney, managing partner of Watton Law Group, helps individuals and families overwhelmed by debt regain financial control and peace of mind. With experience across multiples state and federal districts, he builds personalized strategies tailored to each client’s unique situation. His goal is to ensure his clients have the knowledge and confidence to choose what’s best for their future.
Timothy H. Hassell, Esq.
Partner
Attorney Timothy H. Hassell specializes in bankruptcy law and is committed to delivering personalized, innovative solutions for clients facing financial difficulties. He works closely with individuals and families to craft tailored strategies that address their unique circumstances, providing clear explanations of rights and options to reduce stress and empower informed decisions.
Thomas Arany
Thomas A. Arany, Esq.
Partner
Attorney Thomas A. Arany guides clients through bankruptcy and debt-relief challenges with efficient, practical solutions. He prioritizes clear communication, rapid resolution, and proactive strategies to help clients avoid unnecessary litigation, regain financial control, and achieve lasting stability. By focusing on individual needs and detailed casework, he secures optimal outcomes that empower clients to move forward with confidence.
Kirk M. Fedewa, Esq.
Partner
Attorney Kirk M. Fedewa delivers personalized, creative strategies backed by extensive bankruptcy experience, while providing compassionate, straightforward guidance and clear explanations of rights and options. Treating every client with integrity and family-like care, Attorney Fedewa advocates aggressively to protect assets, eliminate or restructure debt, and achieve a fresh financial start.
Robert K.S. Abernathy, Esq.
Associate
Attorney Robert K.S. Abernathy excels at understanding each client’s unique situation, clearly explaining complex bankruptcy options, and crafting tailored solutions. By building strong relationships, and with open communication and thorough preparation, he guides clients confidently toward financial recovery and long-term stability.
Bennett S. Stuckey, Esq.
Associate
Attorney Bennett S. Stuckey provides compassionate, goal-oriented representation to clients seeking debt relief. Drawing on his natural problem-solving abilities, he guides individuals through the bankruptcy process with respect and efficiency, ensuring they receive the full protection and fresh start the law allows.
Corrine E. Edwards, Esq.
Associate
Attorney Corrine E. Edwards combines compassion and determination in her bankruptcy practice, drawing from her own experiences overcoming financial hardship to empathize with clients. She provides personalized, effective representation, guiding them through bankruptcy toward manageable solutions, a fresh start, and protection of their long-term interests.
Tyler D. Rasmussen, Esq.
Associate
Attorney Tyler D. Rasmussen offers clear, compassionate debt relief. He carefully reviews what you owe, explains all options in simple terms without pressure, and assists in making the math work. When bankruptcy is the best path, he moves quickly to secure a true fresh start, always prioritizing your long-term interests.
Elizabeth J. Cho, Esq.
Associate
Attorney Elizabeth J. Cho is a compassionate and dedicated attorney, guiding individuals through the bankruptcy process with genuine care and helping them eliminate overwhelming debt. By listening attentively to each client’s unique situation and providing clear, personalized guidance, Elizabeth ensures the experience is positive and empowering, allowing clients to regain control of their lives and achieve a fresh financial start.
James M. Conley, Esq.
Associate
Attorney James M. Conley provides compassionate, client-focused representation in bankruptcy and debt relief. With clear communication and practical guidance, he helps individuals and families navigate complex debt challenges, understand their options, and secure tailored solutions for long-term financial stability. Clients appreciate his approachable style and ability to explain intricate legal matters in an accessible way.
Paul K. Schwartz, Esq.
Of Counsel
Attorney Paul K. Schwartz provides compassionate, strategic representation in bankruptcy and debt relief cases. With over 40 years of trial experience, he listens carefully to each client’s situation and goals, then crafts personalized plans that deliver lasting financial relief. His prior experience representing creditors gives him unique insight into creditor strategies, which he now uses to protect debtors and secure the strongest possible outcomes.
Cooper O. Neavill, Esq.
Associate
Attorney Cooper O. Neavill is dedicated to guiding clients through financial difficulties with empathy-driven representation, recognizing that hardship can arise from many circumstances and that every client deserves honest, dependable counsel. His approach debt relief combines a thorough understanding of the law with a genuine commitment to helping individuals find practical solutions and a fresh financial start.
Eric J. Wunsch, Esq.
Associate
Attorney Eric J. Wunsch focuses on consumer bankruptcy and debt-relief matters, bringing creative and detail-oriented strategies to help individuals and families achieve maximum financial relief. Drawing on his civil litigation experience, Eric emphasizes transparent communication and works to reduce the stress clients feel by highlighting the practical benefits of bankruptcy as a powerful tool for a fresh financial start.
Lauren A. Suchan, Esq.
Associate
Attorney Lauren A. Suchan specializes in helping clients eliminate overwhelming debt, stop creditor harassment, and secure a fresh financial start. With patience and empathy, Attorney Suchan guides individuals and families through the bankruptcy process, transforming a challenging situation into an opportunity for lasting relief and a brighter future.
Bio Judith
Judith K. Cranberg, Esq.
Of Counsel
Judith K. Cranberg is deeply committed to caring for her clients facing financial hardships. She approaches every case with empathy and clear communication, taking time to fully understand each client's unique household dynamics, financial goals, and concerns. Sharing the firm's core values, Judith believes everyone deserves a clear, accessible route to financial stability.

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Contact Our Kansas City Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Attorneys Today

If you’re facing overwhelming debt and considering Chapter 7 bankruptcy, we’re here to help. Our Chapter 7 bankruptcy lawyers in Kansas City understand the challenges you’re going through and are committed to guiding you through every step of the bankruptcy process. Whether you have questions about eligibility, the filing process, or what to expect, we’re ready to offer the support you need. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward a fresh financial start. Let us help you regain control of your financial future.

Contact Watton Law Group today at (816) 300-1302 to start the filing process and get economic redemption with our Chapter 7 bankruptcy lawyers in Kansas City.

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I worked with Watton Law Group and they were very responsive and helpful.
I worked with Watton Law Group and they were very responsive and helpful.
- Ashley O.
He is the best.
He is the best.
- Steven M.
Robert Abernathy has always been professional.
Robert Abernathy has always been professional.
- Donna A.
Wow is all I can say!
Wow is all I can say!
- Diashecia B.
The most professional law firm I have ever used.
The most professional law firm I have ever used.
- Bernadine E.
Great lawyers can be hard to find and he definitely is one!
Great lawyers can be hard to find and he definitely is one!
- Michelle
I highly recommend.
I highly recommend.
- Daniel E.
Michael Watton is an example of a well-knowledged attorney.
Michael Watton is an example of a well-knowledged attorney.
- Jodi C.
Working with Robert Mills at Watton Law has been a refreshing experience in the midst of hardship.
Working with Robert at Watton Law has been a refreshing experience in the midst of hardship.
- Tracy S.
Tom has been a saving grace for me, he has motivated me to actually get things done.
Tom has been a saving grace for me, he has motivated me to actually get things done.
- Amy F.

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