Bankruptcy Lawyers in Phoenix, AZ

Reviewed by: Casey Yontz, Attorney (18+ years bankruptcy experience)

Last updated: January 10, 2026

About the Author

If you’re searching for bankruptcy lawyers Phoenix AZ, you’re probably dealing with more than a budgeting problem. Wage garnishments, lawsuits, repossession threats, or nonstop creditor calls can turn everyday life into a constant fire drill—especially when you’re trying to protect your paycheck, your transportation, and your family’s stability.

Our goal is straightforward: help Phoenix residents get clear answers and a realistic plan. If bankruptcy is the right tool, we’ll explain what it can (and can’t) do, what the process typically looks like, and what information we need to give you reliable guidance. If bankruptcy isn’t the best fit, we’ll tell you that too—and discuss other options that may make more sense.

At-a-Glance: What to Expect After You Submit a Consultation Request

• •Clear, honest guidance: a straight answer about whether bankruptcy makes sense for your goals and your current finances.
• •Phoenix-and-Arizona-specific planning: guidance that takes Arizona rules into account—especially exemptions that can affect what property you may be able to keep.
• •Respect and discretion: no judgment, no lectures, and no pressure—just practical answers.
• •Flexible meeting options: virtual consultations are always an option, and in-person meetings are available when helpful.

Why Phoenix Residents Reach Out About Bankruptcy

Most people who submit a consultation request aren’t looking for a “fresh start” slogan—they’re looking for relief and a plan they can trust. Below are some of the most common pressures we see in Phoenix, along with a few practical notes that can help you get clearer answers faster.

Bankruptcy Lawyers in Phoenix, AZ With 18+ Years of Experience

When someone is overwhelmed, the most helpful thing isn’t hype—it’s steady, experienced guidance and clear explanations. Attorney Casey Yontz has practiced bankruptcy law for over 18 years and has helped thousands of individuals navigate real-world financial problems in Arizona.

That experience matters because bankruptcy is rarely “just paperwork.” Small decisions—especially about timing, what to do (and not do) before filing, and how to document your situation—can make the process smoother and help you avoid preventable complications. Our job is to explain your options in plain English and help you choose a path you can actually live with.

If you’d like to learn more about Attorney Yontz’s background and approach, see About the Author.

Bankruptcy Paths Phoenix Residents Typically Compare

Most Phoenix filers are comparing options based on one core question: What problem are we solving? Some people want relief from unsecured debt. Others need time to catch up on protected assets. Business owners (and a small number of higher-debt households) may need a different reorganization tool. The right fit depends on your income, assets, goals, and the specific pressures you’re facing.

We keep the deeper, in-depth explanations on our dedicated guides, which are the best “go-to” resources if you want to learn how each chapter works in Arizona: Arizona Chapter 7 Guide and Arizona Chapter 13 Guide.

• •Chapter 7: often considered when someone wants a clean financial reset and the eligibility numbers line up. For the full “who qualifies / what to expect” walkthrough, use our Arizona Chapter 7 Guide.
• •Chapter 13: often compared when someone needs time to catch up on certain obligations or protect assets through a court-approved monthly plan. For plan structure and common goals, use our Arizona Chapter 13 Guide.
• •Chapter 11: sometimes used by businesses, and occasionally by individuals who don’t fit within chapter 13’s debt limits but still need a structured reorganization approach. If you’re a business owner—or your debt levels are outside chapter 13’s limits—it’s worth asking whether a reorganization path fits better than forcing a “one-size-fits-all” plan.

Phoenix-Specific Mistakes That Can Complicate a Bankruptcy Case

Most bankruptcy complications don’t come from “doing bankruptcy wrong”—they come from timing and paper trails. Phoenix-area filers often run into the same few issues because they’re trying to solve problems quickly (keep the lights on, protect transportation, calm family stress) without realizing certain moves can create extra questions later.

The goal here isn’t to scare you—it’s to give you a simple “pause list” so you can avoid preventable headaches:

• •Using credit right before filing: especially cash advances or unusually large charges.
  Why it matters: Recent credit activity can trigger extra questions and, in some situations, disputes. If bankruptcy is on the table, it’s usually smart to pause non-essential credit use and ask what ’s appropriate for necessities.
• •Moving money between family members: repaying a relative, “borrowing” from a family account, or transferring a vehicle title “for safekeeping.”
  Why it matters: Family transactions can be reviewed more closely than ordinary payments. Even well-intentioned transfers can slow down an otherwise straightforward case.
• •Tax refunds and similar lump-sum payments: refunds can affect planning and timing.
  Why it matters: A refund is often money you’re counting on—but it can also be something the trustee asks about. A quick review helps you plan without surprises.
• •Retirement accounts vs. bank accounts: people sometimes cash out retirement funds or move money without realizing how differently those accounts can be treated.
  Why it matters: Cashing out retirement can create taxes, penalties, and weaker protection. It’s usually worth getting guidance before moving funds.

If any of these sound familiar, don’t panic—most situations are manageable. The key is getting clarity before you file so you can choose a strategy you feel good about and avoid the common “I wish I’d asked sooner” moments.

What Clients Say

Bankruptcy is personal. People come to us when they’re stressed, embarrassed, or simply exhausted from trying to keep up. Our goal is to make the process feel clear and manageable—plain-English answers, a respectful tone, and a plan you can follow.

These are short excerpts from client feedback. Names may be shortened for privacy.

• Less Scary, Less Anxiety

  “You made the whole process less scary… thx for calming my anxiety.”

  What this means for you: You should leave a consultation understanding what happens next, what matters most, and what you can stop worrying about today.

  — Tish

• Professional and Organized

  “Very professional, knowledgeable and organized. We highly recommend his work!”

  What this means for you: You can expect clear document guidance, reliable communication, and a process that doesn’t feel chaotic.

  — Paul & Maria

• Explained Every Option

  “He walked me step by step… explained every option… never made me feel stupid for asking questions.”

  What this means for you: You should feel comfortable asking basic questions and comparing options without being rushed.

  — Melanie

• Hope and Peace of Mind

  “My creditors stopped harassing me, my home was saved, and I finally feel hopeful about my future again.”

  What this means for you: We focus on practical outcomes and realistic expectations—so you understand what bankruptcy can do and what steps actually move you forward.

  — Melanie

Serving Phoenix and Clients Across Arizona

Phoenix is our home base, but we work with individuals and families throughout Arizona. Modern bankruptcy practice makes it possible to handle most of the process remotely when that’s more convenient—without sacrificing clarity or communication.

For example, the 341 meeting (the required meeting with the bankruptcy trustee) is commonly conducted by phone or video, and many routine court appearances (if they’re needed at all) are handled virtually as well. If an in-person meeting is helpful for your situation, we can discuss what makes sense based on your schedule and comfort level.

Find Our Phoenix Office

Our office is located at 4425 E Agave Rd. Suite 106, Phoenix, AZ 85044. Most clients prefer a virtual consultation, but in-person meetings are available when needed.

What to Have Ready for a Phoenix Bankruptcy Consultation

You don’t need a perfect folder of paperwork to get started. The goal is simply to get a clear snapshot of what’s going on so the guidance you receive is practical and reliable. If you have any of the items below, we can usually give you clearer answers faster (and avoid back-and-forth).

• •Income snapshot: recent pay stubs, benefits statements, or a quick summary of monthly income (especially if it changes month to month).
• •Debt list: a list of creditors and collections, plus any lawsuit, judgment, or garnishment paperwork (if you have it).
• •Housing and vehicle basics: payment amounts, whether you’re behind, and (if you know it) the approximate payoff balance.
• •Recent tax return (helpful, not required): if you have your most recent return handy, it can speed up eligibility and planning discussions.

Request a Free Bankruptcy Consultation

If you’re overwhelmed and searching for bankruptcy attorney phoenix az, the simplest next step is to submit a short consultation request. We serve clients across Arizona and will follow up with next steps based on the details you share.

Phoenix Bankruptcy FAQs

How do I know if bankruptcy is the right option in Phoenix, AZ?

Bankruptcy can be a strong option when debt payments, lawsuits, garnishments, or repossession threats are no longer manageable—but it isn’t the right fit for everyone. The best way to tell is to look at your goals (protecting a paycheck, keeping a car or home, stopping collection pressure), your income, your assets, and the types of debts you have. A Phoenix bankruptcy consultation usually starts by reviewing a clear snapshot of your situation so you can compare bankruptcy to alternatives with realistic expectations.

Will filing bankruptcy stop creditor calls, lawsuits, and wage garnishments in Arizona?

In most cases, filing triggers an “automatic stay” that can pause many collection actions, including ongoing lawsuits and wage garnishments. Some situations have exceptions or require quick attention (for example, certain family law matters or repeat filings), and creditors may still need proper notice. If you’re dealing with active garnishments or a pending lawsuit in Phoenix, timing matters—so it’s smart to get advice before deadlines or pay periods pass.

Can I keep my home or car if I file bankruptcy in Phoenix?

Many people who file bankruptcy in Phoenix are trying to protect housing and reliable transportation. Whether you can keep a home or car depends on factors like Arizona bankruptcy exemptions, how much equity you have, whether you’re behind on payments, and which bankruptcy chapter you file. A consultation typically focuses on your current payment status, payoff amounts, and the “protect vs. catch up” strategy that best fits your goals.

What documents should I gather for a Phoenix bankruptcy consultation?

You don’t need perfect paperwork, but a few items can make the conversation much more productive: recent pay stubs or income proof, a list of creditors or collection letters, any lawsuit or garnishment documents, and basic housing/vehicle payment details. If you have your most recent tax return, that can also help with planning. The goal is a reliable snapshot—so you can get clear answers without lots of back-and-forth.

How long does the bankruptcy process usually take in Phoenix, Arizona?

Timing varies by chapter and by how quickly documents are gathered, but many cases follow a predictable flow: pre-filing credit counseling, filing the petition, attending the 341 meeting with the trustee (often by phone or video), completing the post-filing debtor education course, and then receiving a discharge in eligible cases. Your exact timeline depends on your case complexity, the chapter you file under, and any issues that need extra review.