Sheppard Law Offices

What is Chapter 7 bankruptcy, and do I qualify?

Chapter 7 bankruptcy allows eligible individuals to eliminate most unsecured debts, such as credit card debt and medical bills, through a court-supervised process. Eligibility is determined through a means test based on your income and household size. Sheppard Law’s experienced bankruptcy attorney can evaluate your situation and determine whether Chapter 7 is right for you.

What is Chapter 13 bankruptcy?

The Chapter 13 bankruptcy code allows individuals with regular income to restructure their debt into an affordable repayment plan, typically lasting three to five years. It can help you stop foreclosure, catch up on house payments, and protect personal property you might otherwise lose in a Chapter 7 filing.

What debts can be discharged through bankruptcy?

Bankruptcy law allows for the discharge of many types of unsecured debt, including credit card balances, medical bills, personal loans, and certain older income taxes. Overwhelming debt from these sources can often be eliminated through Chapter 7 bankruptcy proceedings or restructured into a manageable repayment plan through Chapter 13. Debt discharge gives you a genuine path to financial freedom by eliminating financial obligations you can no longer meet. However, certain debts, such as student loans, child support, and recent tax liabilities, are generally not dischargeable. An experienced b

How do I know if filing for bankruptcy is the right decision for me?

Filing for bankruptcy is a significant legal decision, and it is not the right solution for everyone. If you are struggling with overwhelming debt, facing wage garnishment or foreclosure, or simply unable to meet your basic financial obligations each month, bankruptcy proceedings may offer the relief you need to start moving forward. The best first step is a free initial consultation with an experienced bankruptcy attorney who can evaluate your income, assets, and debts and explain every available option, including non-bankruptcy alternatives. At Sheppard Law Offices, we take the time to make

What happens if I ignore IRS tax debt?

Ignoring IRS tax debt does not make it go away. It makes it worse. The IRS has broad collection authority and will escalate enforcement over time. Unresolved tax debt can lead to liens on your property, wage garnishments, bank levies, and asset seizure. Interest and penalties continue to accrue, steadily increasing the total balance owed. The good news is that the IRS offers structured relief options, including installment agreements, offers in compromise, and currently-not-collectible status. Attorney Sheppard can review your situation and help you take action before enforcement starts.

What is an Offer in Compromise?

An Offer in Compromise (OIC) is an IRS program that allows qualifying taxpayers to settle their federal tax debt for less than the full amount owed. Not everyone qualifies. Our experienced tax attorney can review your financial situation and determine whether an OIC is a realistic option for you.

Can a bankruptcy and tax attorney help with both debt and tax problems at the same time?

Yes, and this is one of the most significant advantages of working with Sheppard Law Offices. Attorney Kenneth L. Sheppard, Jr. is both a licensed bankruptcy attorney and a tax attorney, meaning he can address overlapping financial obligations in a single, coordinated strategy. Many clients facing overwhelming debt also have unresolved tax problems, and the two issues often need to be handled together for the best possible outcome. Rather than hiring separate attorneys for each issue, you can work with one experienced legal team that understands the full picture of your financial situation.

What is the difference between divorce and dissolution in Ohio?

In Ohio, divorce is a contested process in which one or both spouses dispute the terms of separation, requiring court intervention to resolve issues such as property division, child custody, and spousal support. Dissolution is an uncontested process in which both parties agree on all terms and present a separation agreement to the court for approval. Dissolution is typically faster and less expensive. Attorney Sheppard handles both contested and uncontested matters and can advise which process is best suited to your situation. DIVORCE & FAMILY LAW