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TIRADO LAW OFFICE, LLC
Championing Justice, Fighting For You!
Bankruptcy Questions?
We’ve Got Answers.
Bankruptcy can feel overwhelming, but knowledge is power — and the right answers can change everything. At Tirado Law Office, we believe in empowering our clients with clear, compassionate guidance. Below, you'll find the most common questions our clients ask about Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy in Colorado and Kansas. From protecting your home and car to understanding income limits, legal timelines, and how to qualify — this FAQ section is designed to give you peace of mind, real answers, and a confident path forward.
The automatic stay is one of the most powerful protections in bankruptcy law — it’s an immediate federal court order that goes into effect the moment a debtor files for bankruptcy (under Chapter 7, 11, 12, or 13).
Here’s a breakdown of what it does and why it matters:
🛑 What the Automatic Stay Does
The automatic stay halts almost all collection activity against the debtor and their property. Specifically, it stops:
· Lawsuits and judgments — creditors can’t start or continue lawsuits to collect debts.
· Wage garnishments — any ongoing garnishment must stop immediately.
· Foreclosures and repossessions — mortgage lenders and car creditors must pause these actions.
· Phone calls, letters, and collection efforts — all creditor contact must cease.
· Utility shutoffs — prevents utilities from disconnecting service for at least 20 days.
· Evictions (in some cases) — pauses eviction proceedings unless a judgment of possession was entered before filing.
⚖️ Legal Basis
The stay is established under 11 U.S.C. § 362 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code. It applies automatically — no separate motion or court order is needed. Once the petition is filed, creditors are legally bound to comply.
🔔 Notice to Creditors
Creditors are typically notified through the Bankruptcy Notice sent by the court. However, even verbal or informal notice (such as you telling a creditor you filed) can be enough to require them to stop collection activity immediately.
🚨 Violations of the Automatic Stay
If a creditor knowingly violates the stay, the court can impose sanctions such as:
· Actual damages (e.g., reimbursement for lost wages, attorney’s fees)
· Punitive damages (for egregious conduct)
· Contempt of court penalties
⏱️ How Long It Lasts
· In Chapter 7, the stay lasts until the case is closed, dismissed, or discharge is entered.
· In Chapter 13, it lasts throughout the repayment plan (3–5 years).
· If a debtor has filed multiple bankruptcies, the stay might be limited or not take effect automatically (§ 362(c)(3)–(4)).
🏡 Why It’s Important
For many debtors, the automatic stay is what gives them breathing room — a chance to regroup, protect assets, and reorganize their financial life without harassment or pressure from creditors.
When you file for bankruptcy, the court and trustee require complete financial transparency. Uploading all requested documents ensures your case moves quickly, your property stays protected, and your discharge is granted without delays. Missing documents can cause objections, continuances, or even dismissal.
We will review your uploads and contact you if anything is missing. Please upload each document as soon as you have it through your secure client portal.
Documents Required for All Bankruptcy Filings (Chapter 7 & 13)
· Photo ID and Social Security Card – Required for identity verification at your 341 meeting.
· Pay Stubs (Last 60 Days) – Confirms current income and supports your Means Test.
· Tax Returns (Last 2 Years) – Verifies income and refund information.
· Bank Statements (Last 3 Months) – Shows deposits, balances, and recent transactions.
· Mortgage and Car Loan Statements – Confirms balances and payment status.
· Proof of Monthly Expenses – Rent, utilities, insurance, childcare, etc.
· Statements for All Debts – Credit cards, medical bills, loans, collections, etc.
· Any Lawsuits, Garnishments, or Judgments – So we can stop them with the automatic stay.
· Retirement, Life Insurance, and Investment Statements – Verifies exempt property.
Additional Documents for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
· Proof of Property Value – Zillow, appraisal, or county assessor printout.
· List of Personal Property and Household Items – With reasonable replacement values.
· Records of Property Sales, Gifts, or Transfers (Past 2 Years) – Trustees must review this.
· Proof of Benefits (Unemployment, Social Security, Disability) – If applicable.
Why It Matters: The trustee uses these documents to verify your eligibility and ensure all assets are properly listed and exempted. Full disclosure prevents objections and protects your discharge.
Additional Documents for Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
· Six Months of Income Proof – Pay stubs or profit/loss statements if self-employed.
· Year-to-Date Income Summary or W-2s (Last 2 Years) – Verifies consistent income.
· Mortgage and Vehicle Payoff Statements – Helps calculate arrears for your repayment plan.
· Property Tax and Insurance Proof – Confirms home coverage.
· IRS or State Tax Notices – For any outstanding priority debts.
· Support Orders (Child or Spousal) – Verifies priority debts and ongoing obligations.
· Proof of Regular Expenses – Medical, school, transportation, etc.
Why It Matters: Your repayment plan must be realistic and affordable. These documents prove your income stability, plan feasibility, and that your proposed payments meet all legal requirements.
Quick Tips
· Upload PDFs or clear photos—no screenshots if possible.
· Label each file clearly (e.g., BankStatement_July2025.pdf).
· Use separate uploads per category for easy review.
· Notify us once you’ve uploaded everything.
Tirado Law Office Promise
Our job is to make this process as smooth and stress-free as possible. Uploading your documents early helps us protect your assets, prepare accurate schedules, and ensure your case is filed on time.
Median income limits are state-specific income benchmarks used in bankruptcy to determine whether you qualify for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13. These limits are published by the U.S. Department of Justice and updated twice a year.
Here’s what they mean for you:
· If your household income is below your state’s median income for your household size, you likely qualify for Chapter 7, which eliminates most unsecured debt (like credit cards and medical bills) without a repayment plan.
· If your income is above the median, you might still qualify for Chapter 7 after completing the full “means test,” which deducts allowed expenses. If you have too much disposable income after those deductions, Chapter 13 may be more appropriate.
· In Chapter 13, you’ll make affordable monthly payments over 3 to 5 years to catch up on debts such as mortgage arrears, car loans, or taxes.
· The median income test is based on your household’s average gross income over the last six full months before filing, not just your current income. This means timing your filing can make a big difference,
Median Income Limits (Effective for cases filed on or after November 1, 2025)
Colorado
Household Size Annual Median Income
1 person $85,685
2 people $106,690
3 people $127,495
4 people $149,566
5+ people Add $11,100 for each person above 4
Kansas
Household Size Annual Median Income
1 person $67,423
2 people $85,199
3 people $101,189
4 people $122,741
Household Size Annual Median Income
5+ people Add $11,100 for each person above 4
(Source: U.S. Trustee Program, Census Bureau Median Family Income By Family Size for means testing, effective for cases filed on or after November 1, 2025.) Department of Justice
What this means for debtors
1. Chapter 7 eligibility / “presumption of abuse”
The first step of the Chapter 7 means test compares your household’s annualized income (based on the average of the last 6 full months) to the median for your household size in your state.
If you are at or below the number in the chart: there is no presumption of abuse, and you generally qualify for Chapter 7 without having to do the second part of the means test.*
If you are above the number: you are not automatically disqualified from Chapter 7. You move to Part 2 of the means test, where we subtract allowed expenses (housing, car, taxes, etc.) to see if you actually have meaningful disposable income. Many “over-median” filers still pass after that calculation.*
* We charge a fee of $750 to run a full means test analysis to determine if you a client will qualify for a Chapter 7 bankruptcy despite being over the median income.
2. Chapter 13 plan length
If your household income is below the median for your household size, you can often propose a 36-month (3-year) Chapter 13 plan.
If your household income is above the median, you’re generally required to propose a 60-month (5-year) plan. Neis Michaux Law Office
3. “Household size” matters
These numbers scale with household size. For families bigger than 4, you add $11,100 per additional person in both Colorado and Kansas. Department of Justice
Getting household size right is critical in close cases, especially for blended families, shared custody, or adult dependents.
4. Timing matters
The test looks at income received in the 6 full months before filing, not just “what you make today.” A recent job loss, reduction in hours, or loss of overtime can move someone from “over median” to “under median” if we time the filing correctly. United States Courts
How we use this in practice as debtor’s counsel:
· Step 1: We calculate the client’s “current monthly income,” annualize it, and plug in the right household size.
· Step 2: We compare it to the table for the filing state (Colorado vs. Kansas).
· Step 3: If they’re over median, we prepare the full means test* and are ready to defend expenses — or consider Chapter 13 strategy instead.
The timeline depends on you — specifically, how quickly you’re able to complete the required steps. Once we have everything we need, your case moves fast. We are typically able to file within a week or two after all required documents are submitted.
Here’s what to expect:
1. Complete Your Intake Questionnaire in the Client Portal Here you will list any debt not listed in your credit report, expenses, income, and property. This will give us a clear picture of your financial situation. It’s how we start building your case strategy.
2. Finish Your Credit Counseling Course This short online course is required before any bankruptcy case can be filed. It typically takes about 45–60 minutes.
3. Upload All Required Documents Once you’ve uploaded all pay stubs, bank statements, tax returns, and supporting documents to your secure portal, we can finalize your petition.
4. Pay Your Legal Fees in Full All attorney fees and filing costs must be paid before filing (as required by law).
Once these steps are complete, your case is usually filed within 7–14 days.
We take the time to review your documents carefully to ensure accuracy and maximize your protection. If you have an emergency situation — such as a pending garnishment, repossession, or foreclosure — we can file expedited or same-day cases when necessary.
The sooner you complete your checklist, the sooner we can stop creditor calls and get your case filed. Think of each task — your intake form, counseling course, and uploads — as unlocking the next step toward your financial fresh start.
That’s one of the most important — and most common — questions clients ask. The short answer is: not necessarily. Whether you can keep your home depends on what type of bankruptcy you file, the equity in your home, and whether you’re current on your mortgage.
Let’s break it down clearly:
🏠 In a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy (“Liquidation”)
Chapter 7 is designed to wipe out unsecured debts (like credit cards or medical bills), but the trustee can sell non-exemptassets to pay creditors. So the key question is: how much equity do you have, and does it fit within your state’s “homestead exemption”?
1. Equity and the Homestead Exemption
· Equity = your home’s value minus what you owe on it.
· Exemption = the amount of equity the law lets you protect.
If your equity is less than or equal to the exemption amount, your home is fully protected and the trustee cannot sell it. If your equity exceeds the exemption, the trustee could sell the home, pay off the mortgage, give you your exempt portion, and distribute the rest to creditors.
Colorado, for example, currently protects up to $250,000 of home equity (and $350,000 if you’re elderly or disabled). Kansas, on the other hand, has a very generous homestead exemption — it can protect your entire primary residence, regardless of value, if it’s on one acre in a city or up to 160 acres in the country.
2. Are You Current on Your Mortgage?
Even if your equity is protected, you must stay current on mortgage payments to keep the home. The bankruptcy discharges your personal liability for the loan, but the lien remains — meaning the lender can foreclose later if you stop paying.
3. Reaffirmation or “Ride-Through”
You may choose to reaffirm your mortgage debt (a new agreement to keep paying) or simply keep paying without reaffirming. Each has pros and cons, depending on your lender and future plans.
🧾 In a Chapter 13 Bankruptcy (“Repayment Plan”)
Chapter 13 is often the best tool to save a home if you’re behind on payments.
· You can catch up on mortgage arrears (for example, $50,000 in back payments) over 3–5 years while keeping the home.
· The automatic stay stops foreclosure immediately when you file.
· You must stay current on new mortgage payments going forward while also making plan payments to the Chapter 13 trustee.
This chapter is especially helpful if you’re facing foreclosure or have non-exempt equity that might be at risk in a Chapter 7.
⚖️ So Will You Lose Your House?
You’ll likely keep it if:
· You’re current on payments or can catch up through Chapter 13.
· Your equity is within the exemption limit.
· You continue paying property taxes, insurance, and HOA dues.
You’re at risk of losing it only if:
· You stop making payments and don’t cure the default through Chapter 13, or
· You have significant unprotected equity and file Chapter 7.
Before filing, it’s crucial to calculate your home’s equity accurately and apply the right exemption (Colorado vs. Kansas). This can mean the difference between keeping and losing your home. You’ll also want to discuss whether Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 fits your goals best — one protects assets, the other reorganizes debts.
The Short Answer
Probably not. Most people who file either Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 in Colorado or Kansas keep their cars. The key factors are:
1. How much equity you have in the vehicle, and
2. What each state’s exemption laws allow you to protect.
⚖️ Colorado Motor-Vehicle Exemption
Statute: C.R.S. § 13-54-102(1)(j)
· You can protect up to $15,000 in total vehicle equity.
· If you are elderly (60+) or disabled, you can protect up to $25,000.
· The exemption can cover one or more vehicles used for personal transportation.
Example:
· Car value = $20,000
· Loan = $6,000
· Equity = $14,000 → Fully protected (under the $15,000 limit).
If your equity exceeds the limit, the Chapter 7 trustee could require you to “buy back” the non-exempt portion or, in rare cases, sell the vehicle and refund you the exempt amount.
In Chapter 13, even if your equity is over the limit, you can keep the vehicle by paying the non-exempt value over 3–5 years through your plan.
⚖️ Kansas Motor-Vehicle Exemption
Statute: K.S.A. 60-2304(c)
· Kansas protects up to $20,000 in equity in one vehicle that you or your dependent use for personal transportation.
· This applies per debtor. In a joint case, each spouse may exempt one vehicle up to $20,000.
Example:
· Truck value = $22,000
· Loan = $5,000
· Equity = $17,000 → Fully protected under Kansas law.
Kansas also has a famously generous homestead exemption, but its vehicle protection is capped at $20,000—still higher than most states.
🛡️ Chapter 7 vs. Chapter 13
· Chapter 7: You can keep the car if the equity is within the exemption and you stay current on payments. If you’re financing, you can usually reaffirm the loan or redeem the car at its market value.
· Chapter 13: Ideal if you’re behind on payments or have too much equity for Chapter 7. You can catch up arrears, lower the interest rate, and sometimes “cram down” the balance to the car’s current value
Your car represents freedom and stability — getting to work, taking your kids to school, living your life. Bankruptcy is designed to give you a fresh start, not take away your transportation. At Tirado Law Office, we calculate your car’s equity and apply the right state exemptions so you can keep your keys and move forward with confidence.
In Chapter 7
· Tax refunds are considered assets of the bankruptcy estate.
· If the refund stems from income earned before filing, the trustee can claim part or all of it unless it’s protected by exemptions.
Colorado and Kansas: Refunds are generally not exempt except for Earned Income Credit (EIC) or Child Tax Credit portions.
· Timing matters — your attorney may advise when to file to minimize loss.
In Chapter 13
· Refunds are treated as extra disposable income and must usually be turned over to the trustee each year during the plan,
· You may keep some or all of your refund for necessary expenses if the court approves.
There are instances in bankruptcy where a homeowner may have the ability to actually “strip” off mortgage liens on his real estate. It is rare for this to occur but if there was ever a time in history for this to happen, that time is now. There are various requirements but it basically comes down to this: (1) The debtor must file a Chapter 13 Bankruptcy (NOT a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy!) and, (2) The value of the home must be less than the amount owed on any senior liens on the property.
The short answer: sometimes — yes. Certain income tax debts can be discharged (wiped out) in bankruptcy, but only if they meet very specific rules under the Bankruptcy Code. Whether your taxes qualify depends on the type of tax, when it was due, when you filed your return, and whether the IRS has already assessed it.
To discharge income tax debt, all of the following must be true:
1. The tax is for income (not payroll, sales, or fraud-related taxes).
Only personal income taxes may be discharged.
Business or trust fund taxes (like payroll withholding) are never dischargeable.
2. The tax return was due at least 3 years before filing.
This includes extensions. For example, if your 2021 return was due on April 15, 2022, you must wait until after April 15, 2025 to file bankruptcy for that debt to be eligible.
3. You actually filed the tax return at least 2 years before filing bankruptcy.
If the IRS filed a substitute return for you (because you didn’t file one), that debt will not qualify for discharge.
4. The IRS assessed the tax at least 240 days before filing.
“Assessment” means the IRS officially recorded the amount you owe, usually after processing your return or completing an audit.
5. There was no fraud or intentional evasion.
Taxes from fraudulent returns or attempts to evade payment cannot be discharged.
If you meet all five rules above:
Your income tax debt may be discharged in Chapter 7 or Chapter 13, along with credit cards, medical bills, and other unsecured debts. The IRS must stop collection efforts, including liens, levies, and wage garnishments. In Chapter 13, you may also be able to repay older or priority taxes interest-free through your plan.
If your taxes don’t meet these rules:
You can still get powerful relief in Chapter 13 — even if the debt can’t be discharged:
· The IRS and state taxing authorities must stop all collection activity.
· You can repay your non-dischargeable tax debt over time without additional penalties.
· Interest and late fees often stop accruing once the plan begins.
If you’re drowning in debt, you’ve probably seen ads for companies promising to “settle” or “consolidate” your debt for pennies on the dollar. Sadly, many of these programs overpromise, underperform, and leave people in worse shape than when they started.
Bankruptcy, on the other hand, is a legal and powerful tool that provides real protection and real financial relief.
1. Bankruptcy gives legal protection. Debt consolidation does NOT.
When you file Chapter 7 or Chapter 13:
Creditors must stop all collection
Lawsuits, garnishments, repossessions, and bank levies stop immediately
This is called the Automatic Stay and it has the force of federal law
Debt consolidation programs cannot stop creditors from:
Suing you
Garnishing your wages
Adding interest
Continuing collection calls
2. Bankruptcy eliminates debt. Debt consolidation only negotiates it.
Chapter 7
Wipes out most unsecured debt completely
You never repay those balances
Chapter 13
Creates a court-approved repayment plan
Often results in paying pennies on the dollar
Remaining balances are discharged at the end
In debt consolidation, creditors can simply refuse the deal.
They are not legally required to cooperate.
3. Debt consolidation can damage your credit more than bankruptcy.
Most consolidation companies tell clients to stop paying creditors so the accounts fall into default.
That leads to:
Late payments
Charge-offs
Collections
Lawsuits
Your credit collapses while you still owe the debt.
After bankruptcy, debts are legally resolved, which allows your credit to begin rebuilding immediately.
4. Forgiven debt in debt settlement is treated as taxable income. Bankruptcy debt is NOT.
This is one of the biggest surprises consumers discover:
If a consolidation or settlement company “forgives” part of your debt, the IRS may treat the forgiven portion as taxable income
You can receive a 1099-C and end up owing hundreds or thousands in taxes
The debt isn’t really gone—you just traded it for a tax bill
In bankruptcy, discharged debt is NOT taxable.
You do not owe taxes on wiped-out balances.
5. Bankruptcy is faster, cheaper, and safer.
Debt consolidation companies:
Charge high fees
Stretch repayment over years
Keep money in their own account before paying creditors
Offer no refund if negotiations fail
Many people spend thousands in these programs and still get sued or garnished.
Bankruptcy typically costs far less, takes far less time, and provides real, enforceable relief.
6. Bankruptcy has legal power. Debt consolidation has none.
Bankruptcy is federal law.
Creditors must obey it.
No negotiation. No loopholes. No harassment.
Debt consolidation is voluntary and unenforceable.
Creditors can refuse, ignore, or sue—and often do.
Bottom Line
If you are struggling with debt, bankruptcy is almost always safer, faster, and more effective than debt consolidation programs.
Bankruptcy gives you a fresh start.
Debt consolidation gives you promises.
That’s another crucial question nearly every client asks — and the answer is almost always: No, don’t cash out your 401(k) to pay debt before exploring bankruptcy. It’s understandable to want to “do the right thing” and pay your bills, but using your retirement savings to pay unsecured debt is usually a costly mistake. Bankruptcy law exists to protect your future, not drain it — and your 401(k) or IRA is one of the most protected assets you own.
🔒 Your 401(k) is fully protected in bankruptcy.
Under both federal and state law, retirement funds are exempt — meaning they cannot be taken by creditors or the bankruptcy trustee. Whether you file Chapter 7 or Chapter 13, you will not lose your retirement savings.
By cashing it out, you turn a protected asset into unprotected cash, which can be seized, spent, or lost to creditors.
💰 You’ll owe taxes and penalties if you withdraw early.
If you’re under 59½, early withdrawal usually triggers:
· 10% IRS penalty, plus
· Income taxes on the entire amount withdrawn.
For example: withdrawing $20,000 could cost $6,000–$8,000 in taxes and penalties — money you’ll never get back.
🧾 Bankruptcy can erase the same debts without touching your retirement.
Credit cards, medical bills, payday loans, and personal loans are usually dischargeable in bankruptcy. That means you can eliminate the same debt without sacrificing your future savings or paying the IRS a penalty.
⚖️ Once you spend your retirement funds, they’re gone.
Most people who cash out their 401(k) to pay debts still end up filing bankruptcy later — only now they’ve lost both the money and the protection. Keeping your retirement intact preserves long-term stability and ensures you can recover after your discharge.
Before withdrawing a single dollar from your retirement account, talk with an experienced bankruptcy attorney. We’ll show you how to protect your 401(k) while addressing your debt legally and strategically — often for far less than the tax penalties you’d pay by cashing out.
Remember: You can rebuild credit — but you can’t rebuild lost retirement savings.
If you’re overwhelmed by debt, it’s completely normal to wonder how you’ll afford an attorney. The good news is — you can, and there are several responsible ways to do it. Most of our clients felt exactly the same way at first. Then they realized that investing in bankruptcy representation is the first step toward financial freedom.
⚖️ Bankruptcy is for people who can’t afford to pay everyone — and that includes your lawyer.
The bankruptcy system is designed for people in financial distress. You’re not expected to have extra cash sitting around. Our office offers flexible payment options so you can retain representation now and stop struggling on your own.
We offer affordable payment plans.
You can retain Tirado Law Office with a $600 retainer ($500 applied towards legal fees and $100 for costs of your credit report and two credit counseling courses) which will allow you to start referring your creditors to our office, complete your first credit counseling course, and begin uploading documents. All attorney fees and costs must be paid in full before filing, as required by bankruptcy law.
🎁 Many of our clients are gifted their attorney fees.
Friends or family members often help by contributing toward legal fees — and that’s completely allowed. In fact, it’s one of the safest and most common ways clients get their cases filed. But never borrow money to pay an attorney. Borrowed funds become new debt, and using credit cards before bankruptcy can cause problems with your discharge.
You can sell items or use your tax refund to pay.
Selling unused property (furniture, electronics, or a second vehicle) or using your upcoming tax refund are smart, legal ways to pay for your case. We’ll help you make sure those transactions are handled properly so they don’t create issues for the trustee.
🏛️ If you qualify financially, you may be eligible for free legal help.
If your household income is very limited, you may contact your state’s Legal Aid office to ask whether they offer free or reduced-fee bankruptcy assistance. These programs are income-based and often have waiting lists, but it’s worth exploring if you qualify. Even if Legal Aid cannot represent you directly, they can sometimes refer you to low-cost or pro bono volunteer attorneys.
💡 If you need this, you’ll find a way.
It may sound blunt, but it’s true: if you were arrested, you’d find bail money. Filing bankruptcy is no different — it’s about protecting your freedom, your family, and your
future. Paying a few thousand dollars for a skilled bankruptcy attorney is a small investment compared to the tens of thousands in debt, stress, and garnishments you’ll eliminate.
Don’t let fear about the cost keep you trapped. We’ve seen clients sell unused items, receive gifts, or simply make small weekly payments — and they made it happen. Once you decide to move forward, we’ll help you find a path that works. Because in the end, you’re not paying for paperwork — you’re paying for peace of mind, protection, and a fresh start.
Price matters — but so does service. Some attorneys keep prices low because they’re winding down their practice or they rely on high-volume, low-contact cases where clients rarely speak to the attorney.
That’s not how we operate.
I’m building a thriving, long-term practice focused on client-centered advocacy.
My clients get direct access to me — not just a paralegal or assistant. I take the time to understand your situation, protect your assets, prepare you for your 341 meeting, and fight for the best outcome. That level of representation has value.
If someone is simply searching for the cheapest option, I may not be the right fit — and I’m completely okay with that. Quality representation matters when your home, car, wages, and financial future are on the line.
For those who truly cannot afford legal fees, there are options:
You may qualify for free legal representation through your state's legal aid program
Your employer may offer a legal services benefit
You can attempt to file on your own using www.upsolve.org
No pressure, no judgment — just the truth. A bankruptcy is too important to risk on bargain-bin representation. When you hire me, you get an advocate who treats your case like it matters — because it does.
It might look like “just paperwork” from the outside — but bankruptcy is a federal court process governed by hundreds of detailed laws, deadlines, and local rules. The paperwork is only the surface of a highly technical system that determines what property you can keep, what debts can be erased, and whether your case even succeeds.
📄 The forms are only part of the story.
A bankruptcy petition is over 70 pages of schedules, statements, and disclosures — but every number and checkbox has legal consequences. If one mistake is made — even accidentally — you could:
· Lose valuable property that could have been protected (like your house!)
· Have your discharge denied or delayed.
· Be accused of fraud or concealment.
· Owe debts that would have otherwise been wiped out.
Attorneys don’t just fill out forms — they strategically prepare your case to ensure your income, property, and timing work in your favor.
⚠️ Non-attorney “petition preparers” can’t give legal advice.
Bankruptcy petition preparers (or “typing services”) can only transcribe what you tell them. They can’t advise you which chapter to file, what exemptions apply, or how to handle complex issues like:
· Tax debt and refund protection
· Vehicle or mortgage reaffirmations
· Property transfers or recent large payments
· Joint debts or business ownership
Without legal strategy, you could unintentionally lose assets or have your case dismissed.
💼 You get what you pay for — and more.
Hiring an experienced bankruptcy attorney isn’t about “filling out forms.” It’s about having a legal advocate who:
· Knows your local trustees and judges.
· Ensures you comply with all rules and deadlines.
· Protects your home, car, and retirement.
· Handles creditor communication from day one.
· Prepares you for your 341 Meeting and represents you at every step.
At Tirado Law Office, we don’t just file your case — we build your case.
💡 A mistake in bankruptcy costs far more than doing it right.
A small error (like missing an exemption or filing under the wrong chapter) can cost thousands of dollars — or your discharge altogether. Fixing a failed pro se filing usually costs more than hiring an attorney from the start.
Filing bankruptcy is about protecting your future, not just pushing paper. When you hire Tirado Law Office, you’re not buying forms — you’re buying protection, precision, and peace of mind.
Our job is to make sure you come out stronger — not stuck.
Attorney Samantha “Sam” Tirado is licensed to practice law in both Colorado and Kansas, and her firm represents clients in every corner of both states. Bankruptcy law is federal, meaning cases are handled in U.S. Bankruptcy Courts, not local county courts. This allows Attorney Tirado to represent clients remotely across both states with ease and efficiency.
Virtual Representation, Real Connection
Tirado Law Office proudly embraces technology to make the process accessible and convenient:
· Free virtual consultations via Microsoft Teams or phone.
· Secure online client portal to upload documents, sign forms, and track your case.
· E-signature and electronic filing for fast, paperless service.
· Remote 341 Meetings of Creditors, which are now routinely held by phone or video.
Whether you’re in Denver, Wichita, Grand Junction, Topeka, Colorado Springs, Salina, Pueblo, or Garden City, you’ll receive the same personal attention and high-quality legal representation as local clients.
Filing Locations
· Colorado: Your case is filed in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Colorado, headquartered in Denver, which covers the entire state.
· Kansas: Your case is filed in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Kansas, with divisions in Kansas City, Topeka, and Wichita — and Attorney Tirado can file electronically in any of them.
Why It Works So Well
Because bankruptcy is primarily document-driven, the entire process can be managed securely and efficiently online — from intake to discharge. Clients appreciate being able to:
· Meet from home or work,
· Avoid travel time and courthouse stress, and
· Still have direct access to their attorney every step of the way.
Tirado Law Office Promise
No matter where you live in Colorado or Kansas, you’ll have a Champion in your corner — someone who knows your state’s exemption laws, trustee practices, and the nuances that make or break a successful case.
Distance doesn’t limit your protection. It expands your access to quality, client-centered representation.
Because who you hire matters. Bankruptcy isn’t just forms — it’s a legal process that affects your home, car, wages, credit, and financial future. You deserve to feel confident in the person guiding you through it.
Every attorney has a different style, level of experience, communication approach, and fee structure. Some firms push clients to paralegals and assistants. Some charge low fees but give very little attention. Others charge high fees but don’t provide hands-on service.
Speaking with multiple attorneys helps you compare:
How clearly they explain the process
Whether they take time to understand your situation
How responsive they are
Whether you feel respected, heard, and supported
What is included in their fee (and what isn’t)
Just like you’d get a second opinion on a medical procedure, you should get a second opinion before trusting someone with your financial recovery.
I’m confident in my representation because I provide client-centered advocacy and my clients get direct access to me, not just a paralegal. But I never pressure anyone to sign immediately. You should hire the attorney who makes you feel supported, informed, and protected — even if that isn’t me.
Because at the end of the day, this is your fresh start. You deserve the right fit.
Taking the first step toward financial freedom is easier than you think.
Call (844) TIRADO-1 or (844) 847-2361 TODAY to schedule your free, 30-minute remote consultation with Attorney Samantha “Sam” Tirado.
You can also book directly online by clicking on the button below.
Prefer to book online? Simply click the CONTACT US button below to reserve your consultation.
Once your appointment is scheduled, be sure to complete our New Client Intake Questionnaire using the same CONTACT US button.
· Gather key background details about your financial situation, and
· Give you an early look at our client-centered approach to bankruptcy.
Once received, our office will confirm your consultation and email you next steps to prepare for our meeting.
It’s quick, confidential, and could be the most important 30 minutes you spend this year.
Why Choose Tirado Law Office?
Compassionate Representation From Someone Who Understands
When you’re facing financial stress, the attorney you choose matters. At Tirado Law Office, we believe bankruptcy isn’t about giving up — it’s about taking your power back. We combine legal precision with compassion, strategy, and relentless advocacy to help you rebuild your life with dignity and strength.
You can certainly shop around for other, more experienced, award-winning attorneys or hire a large firm to handle your case. I offer competent, client-centered advocacy with compassion. When you hire Tirado Law Office, you won’t be just a number or a case file. While no attorney can guarantee results or a favorable outcome, I can guarantee that you will have direct access to me- an attorney who truly understands what you're going through and is willing to fight for you.
I walk you through every step of the process with compassion and clarity because I have been in your shoes. I know what questions you have, what fears keep you up at night, and what information you actually need (not legal jargon that leaves you more confused).
Areas We Serve
Colorado Springs, CO 80903
Wichita, KS 67216
Kansas: Chapter 7 Bankruptcy representation throughout the state.
Colorado: Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 Bankruptcy representation throughout the state.
Please note that consultations are remote only via Teams. Only initial bankruptcy consultations are free. In order to maintain an efficient practice, should you miss an appointment and want to reschedule, there will be a $150 fee assessed to be applied towards your legal fee should you choose to retain my services. Thank you for your understanding.
844-TIRADO-1
844-847-2361
Disclaimer: Content on this website is provided solely for informational purposes. Visiting this website does not establish an attorney-client relationship. Such a relationship is only formed after a fee agreement has been signed by both parties.