Bankruptcy cases in Macon-Bibb County are filed in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Georgia. Macon’s median household income runs below the national average, which increases the number of families facing overwhelming medical debt, credit card balances, and foreclosure threats. The two most commonly filed bankruptcy types in Bibb County are Chapter 7 (liquidation for a clean slate) and Chapter 13 (debt reorganization through a repayment plan). When a bankruptcy petition is filed, an automatic stay immediately halts all creditor collection actions including foreclosure, wage garnishment, and repossession.
Julius King LLC has served Macon-Bibb County and Middle Georgia in bankruptcy and debt relief since 2003 and holds BBB accreditation. L. Wayne Gilleland is a Macon-based attorney with over 25 years of bankruptcy experience. Sherry L. Johnson operates offices in both Macon and Warner Robins, specializing in stopping foreclosures, garnishments, and repossessions. The most common triggers for bankruptcy filings in the Macon area are medical expenses, job loss, and post-divorce financial strain. Dozier Law, established in 1966, also provides Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 representation and specifically serves Robins Air Force Base military members alongside civilian clients.
Top-Rated Bankruptcy Attorneys in Macon, Georgia
Julius King LLC
Adres: Macon, GA
Website: jkingllc.net
Serving Georgia in bankruptcy and debt relief since 2003, Julius King LLC holds BBB accreditation. The firm handles Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 filings along with debt settlement, wage garnishment defense, and foreclosure prevention. Post-bankruptcy credit score recovery guidance is also offered. Attorney Julius King emphasizes his personal understanding of financial hardship. Free initial consultations are available.
L. Wayne Gilleland, Attorney at Law
Adres: Macon, GA
Website: maconbankruptcylaw.com
A Macon-based bankruptcy attorney with over 25 years of experience handling Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 cases. The firm helps clients stop foreclosure, wage garnishment, vehicle repossession, and creditor harassment. Office hours are Monday through Friday 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM, with evening appointments available by arrangement. Free initial consultations are provided.
The Law Office of Sherry L. Johnson
Adres: Macon, GA and Warner Robins, GA (two offices)
Website: slj-law.com
Operating from dual locations in Macon and Warner Robins, Sherry Johnson provides one-on-one client attention through every stage of the Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 process. She specializes in stopping foreclosures, garnishments, and vehicle repossessions. Her extensive bankruptcy knowledge allows her to tailor solutions to each client’s specific financial situation. Free consultations are offered at both locations.
Bankruptcy Attorneys in Macon: Common Questions
What is the difference between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy in Macon, GA?
Chapter 7 allows qualifying individuals to discharge unsecured debts like credit card and medical bills, typically completing within three to six months. Chapter 13 creates a three- to five-year repayment plan for those with regular income, which can stop foreclosure and allow debtors to catch up on mortgage or car loan arrears. Macon bankruptcy attorneys assess which option fits each client’s financial circumstances.
How much does it cost to file bankruptcy in Macon, GA?
Bankruptcy filing costs include attorney fees and court filing fees. Court fees are set at the federal level. Attorney fees vary based on the chapter filed and case complexity. Most Macon firms offer free initial consultations, and some provide payment plan options. Contact attorneys directly for specific fee information.
Will filing bankruptcy in Macon stop foreclosure and wage garnishment?
Yes. When a bankruptcy petition is filed, an automatic stay takes effect immediately. This order stops creditors from pursuing foreclosure, wage garnishment, vehicle repossession, and even phone-based collection efforts. Julius King LLC and Sherry Johnson both have experience in emergency filings designed to halt imminent foreclosure or garnishment actions.
How long does bankruptcy stay on my credit report in Macon, GA?
A Chapter 7 bankruptcy remains on credit reports for 10 years; Chapter 13 stays for 7 years. However, many filers see significant credit score improvement within 12 to 15 months after discharge. Julius King LLC provides post-bankruptcy credit recovery guidance. Some former bankruptcy filers qualify for home loans within 12 to 24 months after discharge.
Can I get free bankruptcy advice in Macon?
Yes, most Macon bankruptcy attorneys offer free initial consultations. Julius King LLC, L. Wayne Gilleland, and Sherry L. Johnson all provide no-cost evaluations. Additionally, the Georgia Legal Services Program maintains a Macon office that may provide free legal assistance to individuals meeting certain income criteria.