Missouri

Missouri Bankruptcy Attorneys

Serving Clients Statewide

Few things are as stressful and overwhelming as dealing with financial challenges. If you are facing significant debt, constantly receiving calls from creditors, or dealing with wage garnishment, foreclosure, or other collection activities, there is hope.

Filing for bankruptcy can provide the relief you need. Some types of bankruptcy completely eliminate most or all of your debts, whereas others allow you to develop a three- to five-year plan for repaying your creditors. The right choice for you will depend on your specific circumstances, including your current income, available assets, and level of secured and unsecured debts.

At Watton Law Group, we have been helping clients navigate the bankruptcy system for more than 25 years. Our Missouri bankruptcy attorneys are highly knowledgeable of federal bankruptcy statutes, as well as applicable state laws, and can help you fully understand your legal options. We emphasize a compassionate, client-centered approach based on communication, honesty, and integrity.

Fill out our Free Bankruptcy Evaluator or contact us online to get started with our bankruptcy lawyers in Missouri.

For residents located in Missouri’s Eastern District, please call (314) 912-2572. For those located in Missouri’s Western District, please call (816) 300-1302.

Kansas City, MO Office
(816) 300-1302
1201 Walnut Street,
Suite 435
Kansas City, MO 64106
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St. Louis, MO Office
(314) 912-2572
800 Market Street,
Suite 2150
St. Louis, MO 63101
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Serving Clients Throughout Missouri

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.

On This Page:

Bankruptcy in Missouri: What It Can and Cannot Do for You

In the simplest terms, filing for bankruptcy allows individuals to regain financial control. Depending on the type of bankruptcy filed, this may mean the total discharge of most or all debts, or it may involve the restructuring and repayment of debts over a specified period of time.

Some examples of different types of debts that may be discharged via bankruptcy include:

  • Credit card debt
  • Medical bills
  • Personal loans
  • Past-due utility bills

In a reorganization bankruptcy, you may be able to restructure certain secured debts, such as real estate mortgages and auto loans, allowing you to make more manageable monthly payments and catch up on overdue or past-due payments.

However, generally, bankruptcy does not eliminate or allow for the restructuring of all financial liabilities.

  • Child support payments
  • Spousal support (alimony) payments
  • Most student loans and tax debts
  • Fines and payments associated with criminal legal proceedings
  • Court-ordered payments for personal injury or death caused by drunk driving

Contact Our Bankruptcy Lawyers in Missouri Today

Navigating the process of filing for bankruptcy can be extremely overwhelming, but Watton Law Group is here to help. We are committed to providing our clients with the personal attention and support they deserve, as well as the information they need to make empowered financial decisions. We can assist you with all aspects of filing for bankruptcy and debt relief, from determining whether this is the right option for you to identifying the most beneficial form of bankruptcy based on your situation. We also regularly help clients with related matters, such as debt lawsuits, foreclosure, vehicle repossession, class actions, creditor harassment, and more.

We invite you to reach out to our Missouri bankruptcy attorneys today to learn more. We offer complimentary bankruptcy evaluations and free consultations to all new and prospective clients.

FAQs for Missouri Residents Considering Bankruptcy

The duration of a bankruptcy case in Missouri varies based on the type of filing. Chapter 7 cases typically conclude within four to six months, involving the liquidation of assets and the discharge of debt. In contrast, Chapter 13 filings include a three- to five-year repayment plan. The precise timeline may vary depending on individual circumstances and court scheduling. Throughout the process, our lawyers will provide timely updates and strategic advice to manage expectations and facilitate a smooth transition through each stage.

Whether you can retain ownership of your house and car in a Missouri bankruptcy depends on several factors, including the equity in these assets and the type of bankruptcy filed. Missouri's exemptions play a pivotal role here. The state's homestead exemption can safeguard up to a certain amount of home equity, and there are also specific exemptions for vehicles. For Chapter 13 filers, a repayment plan can help manage arrears on secured debts. Our attorneys will guide you through understanding and applying these exemptions, working to preserve your essential possessions while alleviating your debt burden.

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.
Attorney Profile
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.
Attorney Profile
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.
Attorney Profile
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.
Attorney Profile
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.
Attorney Profile
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.
Attorney Profile
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.
Attorney Profile
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.
Attorney Profile
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.
Attorney Profile
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.
Attorney Profile
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.
Attorney Profile
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.
Attorney Profile
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.
Attorney Profile
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.
Attorney Profile
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.
Attorney Profile
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.
Attorney Profile

How Watton Law Group Helps

Free Consultation
Our consultations are free. Speak with a qualified lawyer who can help determine your best course of action.
Talk With Our Team
File Bankruptcy
We’ll guide you through each step from filing your bankruptcy petition to creating a plan that’s right for you so that the process is simple, understandable and straightforward.
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Have Questions?
Contact our experienced team online to help you manage your debt. Your information will be kept confidential.
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Missouri Bankruptcy Attorneys: Help When You Need It Most

With over 25 years of experience, our attorneys have perfected a system that makes filing for bankruptcy as easy as possible for you. We offer unparalleled support throughout the entire process and will help you move forward with the best options available to you.

Happy Family Together At Park
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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