Credit card debt can grow faster than most people expect. A missed payment turns into late fees. Interest keeps adding up. Before long, balances feel impossible to manage. Many people in Durham County find themselves using one credit card to pay off another just to stay afloat. If this sounds familiar, you are not alone, and you do have legal options.

When you have a lot of credit card debt, bankruptcy is one of the best things you can do. Many people are scared of the idea, but bankruptcy is meant to help honest people get a fresh start when their debts get too big. 

If you need help digging your way out from under a mountain of credit card debt, contact a trusted Durham County bankruptcy lawyer today. 

How Did My Credit Card Debt Get So Out of Hand?

It’s easy to use credit cards, but it’s hard to pay them off when the balances get bigger. Even big monthly payments may not lower the total amount owed very much if the interest rates are high. Things can get worse when things happen in life, like:

• Job loss or reduced income
• Medical bills or unexpected emergencies
• Divorce or separation
• Rising living expenses
• Using credit cards to cover basic needs like groceries or rent

When payments are late, creditors may start calling, sending collection notices, or even suing you. In North Carolina, creditors may sometimes levy bank accounts after obtaining a judgment, but wage garnishment is generally not allowed for ordinary credit card debt. These actions can be stopped by bankruptcy.

How Does Bankruptcy Help?

Credit card debt is usually considered unsecured debt, meaning it is not tied to property like a home or vehicle. Because of this, bankruptcy often provides strong relief.

When you file for bankruptcy, something called an automatic stay, which halts most collection activity, is immediately enacted. This includes:

• Collection calls and letters
• Lawsuits and court judgments
• Wage garnishment efforts
• Bank levies
• Harassing creditor contact

For many people, this brings instant relief and peace of mind.

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy

Chapter 7 bankruptcy is often the fastest way to eliminate credit card debt. If you qualify, most or all qualifying credit card balances can be completely wiped out.

In many Chapter 7 cases:

• Credit card debt is discharged
• You are no longer legally required to pay it
• Collection activity permanently stops

The process usually takes only a few months from start to finish. Many people who file Chapter 7 keep essential property because North Carolina law provides exemptions that protect certain assets, such as household goods, retirement accounts, and, in many cases, equity in a home or vehicle.

A bankruptcy lawyer reviews your income, assets, and financial situation to determine whether Chapter 7 is the right option.

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy

Not everyone qualifies for Chapter 7. In those situations, Chapter 13 bankruptcy may still provide powerful help.

Chapter 13 sets up a structured repayment plan that takes anywhere from three to five years. You make one monthly payment that fits your budget, instead of having to pay for multiple credit cards at once.

Under Chapter 13:

• Interest on unsecured debts usually stops growing
• Creditors cannot continue collection efforts
• Remaining eligible credit card debt may be discharged after the plan ends

This choice can be very helpful for people who have a steady job but need time and legal protection to get their finances in order.

When to Consider Talking to an Attorney

You may want to explore bankruptcy if:

• You rely on credit cards to pay regular bills
• Minimum payments keep increasing
• Collection calls are constant
• You are facing lawsuits over unpaid debt
• You see no realistic way to pay off balances within several years

You don’t have to file for bankruptcy just because you talk to a lawyer. It just helps you understand your choices and make a smart choice.

Contact a Durham County Bankruptcy Lawyer

It can be stressful and seem like your credit card debt will never end, but there are legal ways to get out of it in Durham County. Bankruptcy can stop creditors from bothering you, get rid of huge debts, and give you a chance to move on without always worrying about money.

The Law Office of Stephen E. Robertson, PLLC can help you figure out if bankruptcy is the best option for you if you can’t handle your credit card debt anymore. Call (336) 370-6760 or fill out the contact form on our website to schedule a private consultation and find out how you can take charge of your money.