Utah Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Attorneys

Watton Law Group Can Help You File Chapter 7 Bankruptcy in Utah

When filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you need an experienced team in your corner. That’s why thousands of Utah 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.

Understanding Chapter 7 Bankruptcy in Utah

Chapter 7 bankruptcy is the most common form of bankruptcy filed, and is often referred to as a “Wipe Out” or “Fresh Start.” It is also known as “liquidation bankruptcy” because a trustee may sell certain non-exempt assets to pay off creditors. Chapter 7 is typically the quickest and simplest form of bankruptcy, and it is available to those who meet specific eligibility criteria.

To qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you must meet certain income requirements and pass the means test. The means test compares your income to the median income in your state. If your income is below the median, you generally qualify. If it’s above the median, you’ll need to pass a more detailed means test, which considers your expenses and disposable income.

The following is a general overview of the steps involved in a Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Utah:

  1. Credit Counseling: Before you can file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you must complete a credit counseling course from an approved agency. This course helps you explore alternatives to bankruptcy and understand your financial situation better.
  2. Filing the Petition: Once you’ve determined your eligibility and completed the credit counseling requirement, you can file a bankruptcy petition in the Utah bankruptcy court. You’ll need to provide detailed financial information, including your income, expenses, assets, and debts.
  3. Automatic Stay: Upon filing, an automatic stay goes into effect. This legal protection prevents creditors from taking collection actions against you, such as wage garnishment, foreclosure, or repossession.
  4. Meeting of Creditors: A few weeks after filing, you’ll attend a meeting of creditors, also known as a 341 meeting. The bankruptcy trustee and your creditors have the opportunity to ask questions about your financial situation.
  5. Asset Liquidation: In Chapter 7, a bankruptcy trustee may sell non-exempt property to pay off your unsecured debts. However, many assets are protected by exemptions under state or federal law, which vary by jurisdiction. Utah has its own set of exemptions that you can use to protect certain property from liquidation.
  6. Discharge: If everything goes smoothly, and there are no objections from creditors or the trustee, you may receive a discharge of your qualifying debts within a few months. This discharge means you’re no longer legally obligated to pay those debts, and creditors cannot pursue you for them.

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.

Advantages of Chapter 7 Bankruptcy for Utah Residents

Chapter 7 bankruptcy offers several benefits to individuals and businesses facing overwhelming debt.

Here are some of the primary advantages of filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy:

  • Debt Discharge: The most significant benefit of Chapter 7 bankruptcy is the discharge of most unsecured debts. This means that qualifying debts are wiped out, and you are no longer legally obligated to repay them. Common examples of dischargeable debts include credit card debt, medical bills, personal loans, and certain types of business debts.
  • Immediate Relief: Filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy triggers an automatic stay, which prevents creditors from pursuing collection actions against you. This means an immediate halt to creditor harassment, wage garnishment, foreclosure, repossession, and other aggressive collection efforts.
  • Fresh Financial Start: Chapter 7 provides a clean slate, allowing you to start rebuilding your financial life without the burden of unmanageable debt. It can offer peace of mind and relief from the stress associated with overwhelming financial obligations.
  • Speedy Resolution: Chapter 7 bankruptcy is generally a relatively quick process compared to other bankruptcy chapters. In many cases, the entire process can be completed in a few months, providing a swift resolution to your financial difficulties.
  • No Repayment Plan: Unlike Chapter 13 bankruptcy, which involves a structured repayment plan, Chapter 7 does not require you to make ongoing payments to creditors. This can be advantageous if your income is insufficient to support a repayment plan.
  • Protection of Exempt Assets: Each state has its own set of exemptions that allow you to protect certain assets from being sold by the bankruptcy trustee to pay off your debts. In many cases, individuals can retain essential assets like their home, car, and personal belongings.
  • Improved Creditworthiness: While a Chapter 7 bankruptcy will appear on your credit report for up to ten years, it provides an opportunity for a fresh start. Over time, you can rebuild your credit by responsibly managing your finances, and many people are able to obtain credit again within a few years after bankruptcy.
  • No Income Tax on Discharged Debt: Generally, debts discharged in Chapter 7 bankruptcy are not considered taxable income for federal income tax purposes. This means you won’t owe taxes on the forgiven debt.

It’s important to note that Chapter 7 bankruptcy also has some potential drawbacks and consequences, such as the impact on your credit score and the potential loss of non-exempt assets.

Additionally, not all debts are dischargeable, so it’s essential to consult with our experienced attorneys to determine if Chapter 7 is the right solution for your financial situation and to understand the specific implications in your case.

If you are interested in filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Utah, contact Watton Law Group today at (801) 528-4665 to let us help you get started.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chapter 7 for Utah Residents

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.

Serving Clients Throughout Utah From Our Salt Lake 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.
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
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

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Start Your Chapter 7 Filing in Utah with Watton Law Group

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 expertise 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 to start the filing process and get economic redemption.

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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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