HOW IT BEGINS

Take the Steps Towards Debt Relief

Dan and the bankruptcy attorneys at Frost Law can help you take your first step towards debt relief. They can untangle your financial situation through sound legal advice, taking control of creditor issues, and guiding you towards a fresh start.

1

Understand Your Financial Options

The first step is always the hardest. Contact us to learn about your bankruptcy options. Once you take that first step towards understanding that bankruptcy can be a solution rather than a problem, you can find the right bankruptcy lawyer for your situation.

2

Find Your Fresh Start

Filing for bankruptcy is one of many options for dealing with credit card debt, tax debt, business debt, and other liabilities. We can tailor a bankruptcy case filing for your specific situation. Learn how others got their fresh start and what makes sense for you.

3

Talk to a Bankruptcy Professional

Begin the process with a free, confidential consultation with one of our bankruptcy attorneys. We are experienced in bankruptcy options, tax debt, and planning your relief options. We typically schedule consultations the same day that you contact us.

Exemptions

What You Can Keep

A common fear about bankruptcy is losing everything you own. The good news is that's rarely how it actually works. Bankruptcy law for individuals includes "exemptions," which are specific types of property that are protected from being sold off. The purpose of exemptions is to make sure people going through bankruptcy can keep the essentials needed to maintain daily life and eventually get back on their feet financially.

Common exemptions often include a portion of home equity, a vehicle up to a certain value, basic household goods and furniture, clothing, and retirement accounts like 401(k)s or IRAs. These exemptions vary depending on where you live, since some states have their own rules while others follow federal guidelines. For example, some states also protect a portion of wages or specific types of insurance benefits.

This is one of the areas where working with a bankruptcy attorney can really help, since exemption rules can be complicated. Knowing what's protected ahead of time can also ease a lot of the anxiety that comes with considering bankruptcy in the first place.

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Our Team

Meet Your Bankruptcy Team

Experienced in bankruptcy options, tax debt, and planning your relief — here to untangle your financial situation with sound legal advice.

Alon Nager
Director
Brett Weiss
Of Counsel
Daniel Staeven
Partner
Uriel Stern
Senior Associate

Real stories

Men and women who found their way back from the edge

"The phone stopped ringing. For the first time in years I slept through the night."
James Miller
Truck driver, Ohio
Read case study
"I thought I would lose the house. My lawyer showed me the law was on my side."
Sarah Chen
Teacher, Michigan
Read case study
"They treated me like a man, not a case number. That mattered."
Robert Diaz
Restaurant owner, Texas
Read case study
"I walked in ashamed. I walked out with a plan and my head up."
Emily Watson
Nurse, Florida
Read case study
"The debt was a mountain. They showed me the path around it."
David Kim
Electrician, Nevada
Read case study
"No judgment. No lectures. Just straight answers and hard work."
Maria Gonzalez
Small business owner, Arizona
Read case study

Bankruptcy Law

Explore your debt relief options.

One conversation may be all it takes to take control of your situation.

If you're struggling to regain your financial footing while creditors become more aggressive, bankruptcy may be your best option for debt relief. This applies to individuals and business owners, whether you own an S Corp, LLC, or sole proprietorship.

Bankruptcy does not always mean selling your assets. You can find your fresh start in a variety of ways with several different debt relief options to consider. This means keeping your home, your car, your business, and any number of other assets. Talk to our bankruptcy lawyers today and learn how to get the fresh start you deserve.

FREE CONSULTATION(410) 497-5947
Who will help you?

Meet Dan Staeven, Esq.

Dan and his team of bankruptcy professionals want to secure the best outcome for your financial situation. Not only is he knowledgeable about the laws, rules, and requirements of bankruptcy for businesses and individuals, but he also has the experience to guide you through all the other personal and professional challenges needed for a fresh start.

Get in touch with the bankruptcy team at Frost Law for a confidential consultation. You provide the facts and we’ll provide details about the best ways forward to keep as many assets as possible.

read more about dan

Understanding Your Options for Debt Relief

You always have options when working with a bankruptcy attorney. Learn more about which type of bankruptcy might help you find the best relief plan. You can contact our team today to explore your situation and help you determine which option makes sense for you.

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy

Chapter 7 bankruptcy is often called a "liquidation" bankruptcy. A person or business that can't pay their bills has a court-appointed trustee sell things they own that aren't protected by law. Most assets, however, are protected by exemptions. Most remaining debts get wiped away, giving the person a fresh start. This process is usually quick, often finishing in a few months. Chapter 7 works best for people with lower income and few valuable assets. Some debts, like certain taxes or child support, usually can't be erased this way.

READ MORE

Chapter 11 Bankruptcy

Chapter 11 bankruptcy is often used by businesses, though individuals can file, too. Instead of selling everything off, the person or company creates a plan to reorganize their debts and keep operating. They might renegotiate payment terms, cut costs, or restructure how the business runs. A court must approve this repayment plan. Chapter 11 is usually more expensive and complicated than other bankruptcy types because it involves more paperwork, court hearings, and negotiation with creditors. It's a good option for businesses that are struggling financially but could become profitable again.

READ MORE

Chapter 11 Subchapter V Bankruptcy

Subchapter V bankruptcy is simpler and more beneficial than previous versions of Chapter 11 to the small business, and at an overall lower cost than more complex Chapter 11 cases. It removes some of the complicated steps required in regular Chapter 11 cases, like certain committee meetings and detailed disclosure paperwork. A trustee helps guide the process, but the business owner keeps control of daily operations. Only businesses with debts under a certain limit set by law can qualify. This bankruptcy option was created to help small business owners reorganize their debts without the huge legal costs and long timelines that come with traditional Chapter 11 bankruptcy.

READ MORE

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy

Chapter 13 bankruptcy is sometimes called a "wage earner's plan." Instead of selling off possessions, the person keeps their property and agrees to a repayment plan lasting three to five years. Part of their income goes toward paying back debts each month. This option is helpful for people who have a steady income but need help catching up on missed payments, especially for things like a house or car they want to keep. Once the repayment plan is finished, any remaining eligible debt is usually forgiven. Chapter 13 requires discipline because missing payments can cause the case to fail.

READ MORE
Warning Signs

How to Know If You Need Bankruptcy

Deciding whether bankruptcy is right for you can feel overwhelming, but there are some common signs that it might be time to consider this option.

If any of these situations sound familiar, talking with a bankruptcy attorney can help you understand your options and figure out whether bankruptcy makes sense for your specific circumstances.

TALK THROUGH YOUR SITUATION
01

You're putting everyday expenses like groceries or utilities on credit cards and carrying that balance month after month.

02

Your monthly debt payments take up a large portion of your income.

03

You're having to choose between paying your credit card, rent, or medical bills.

04

You're falling behind on a mortgage.

05

Your wages are being garnished.

06

You're getting calls from debt collectors or being threatened with lawsuits.

Featured Videos

More Bankruptcy Resources on YouTube

Watch our "Let's Talk Bankruptcy" series with Dan Staeven, Esq. to learn how he approaches bankruptcy options and what may be best for you.

WATCH NOW
News

Recent Updates in Bankruptcy Law

Bankruptcy Law

Why Bankruptcy Can Still Help Businesses Trapped by Merchant Cash Advances

Aug 5, 2026
read more
Bankruptcy Law

Do I Need an Attorney to File for Bankruptcy? Part 3: The Lawsuit You Didn’t Know You Were Giving Away

Jul 1, 2026
read more
Bankruptcy Law

Do I Need an Attorney to File for Bankruptcy? Part 2: Can One Day Make a Difference?

May 29, 2026
read more
Bankruptcy Law

The Debt Limit Dilemma: In re Beatty and the Unresolved Question of Chapter 13 Eligibility in Joint Cases

May 22, 2026
read more

Bankruptcy Law

Explore your debt relief options.

One conversation may be all it takes to take control of your situation.

If you're struggling to regain your financial footing while creditors become more aggressive, bankruptcy may be your best option for debt relief. This applies to individuals and business owners, whether you own an S Corp, LLC, or sole proprietorship.

Bankruptcy does not always mean selling your assets. You can find your fresh start in a variety of ways with several different debt relief options to consider. This means keeping your home, your car, your business, and any number of other assets. Talk to our bankruptcy lawyers today and learn how to get the fresh start you deserve.

FREE CONSULTATION(410) 497-5947
Who will help you?

Meet Dan Staeven, Esq.

Dan and his team of bankruptcy professionals want to secure the best outcome for your financial situation. Not only is he knowledgeable about the laws, rules, and requirements of bankruptcy for businesses and individuals, but he also has the experience to guide you through all the other personal and professional challenges needed for a fresh start.

Get in touch with the bankruptcy team at Frost Law for a confidential consultation. You provide the facts and we’ll provide details about the best ways forward to keep as many assets as possible.

read more about dan

Understanding Your Options for Debt Relief

You always have options when working with a bankruptcy attorney. Learn more about which type of bankruptcy might help you find the best relief plan. You can contact our team today to explore your situation and help you determine which option makes sense for you.

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy

Chapter 7 bankruptcy is often called a "liquidation" bankruptcy. A person or business that can't pay their bills has a court-appointed trustee sell things they own that aren't protected by law. Most assets, however, are protected by exemptions. Most remaining debts get wiped away, giving the person a fresh start. This process is usually quick, often finishing in a few months. Chapter 7 works best for people with lower income and few valuable assets. Some debts, like certain taxes or child support, usually can't be erased this way.

READ MORE

Chapter 11 Bankruptcy

Chapter 11 bankruptcy is often used by businesses, though individuals can file, too. Instead of selling everything off, the person or company creates a plan to reorganize their debts and keep operating. They might renegotiate payment terms, cut costs, or restructure how the business runs. A court must approve this repayment plan. Chapter 11 is usually more expensive and complicated than other bankruptcy types because it involves more paperwork, court hearings, and negotiation with creditors. It's a good option for businesses that are struggling financially but could become profitable again.

READ MORE

Chapter 11 Subchapter V Bankruptcy

Subchapter V bankruptcy is simpler and more beneficial than previous versions of Chapter 11 to the small business, and at an overall lower cost than more complex Chapter 11 cases. It removes some of the complicated steps required in regular Chapter 11 cases, like certain committee meetings and detailed disclosure paperwork. A trustee helps guide the process, but the business owner keeps control of daily operations. Only businesses with debts under a certain limit set by law can qualify. This bankruptcy option was created to help small business owners reorganize their debts without the huge legal costs and long timelines that come with traditional Chapter 11 bankruptcy.

READ MORE

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy

Chapter 13 bankruptcy is sometimes called a "wage earner's plan." Instead of selling off possessions, the person keeps their property and agrees to a repayment plan lasting three to five years. Part of their income goes toward paying back debts each month. This option is helpful for people who have a steady income but need help catching up on missed payments, especially for things like a house or car they want to keep. Once the repayment plan is finished, any remaining eligible debt is usually forgiven. Chapter 13 requires discipline because missing payments can cause the case to fail.

READ MORE
Who will help you?

More Bankruptcy Resources on YouTube

Watch our "Let's Talk Bankruptcy" series with Dan Staeven, Esq. to learn how he approaches bankruptcy options and what may be best for you.

Learn more
News

Read the latest Bankruptcy news

Bankruptcy Law

Why Bankruptcy Can Still Help Businesses Trapped by Merchant Cash Advances

Aug 5, 2026
read more
Bankruptcy Law

Do I Need an Attorney to File for Bankruptcy? Part 3: The Lawsuit You Didn’t Know You Were Giving Away

Jul 1, 2026
read more
Bankruptcy Law

Do I Need an Attorney to File for Bankruptcy? Part 2: Can One Day Make a Difference?

May 29, 2026
read more
Bankruptcy Law

The Debt Limit Dilemma: In re Beatty and the Unresolved Question of Chapter 13 Eligibility in Joint Cases

May 22, 2026
read more
In June 2021, attorney Daniel Staeven started to help my wife and me with a complex case in the Montgomery County District Court. The case was about squatters (previous owners) who were engaged in fraudulent acts in order to continue to reside at the property my wife and I purchased directly from the bank. If we did not have good representation, the squatters were probably going to still remain at our home. My wife and I are very thrilled for the service that Daniel Staeven provided. It was a long and bumpy road. Nonetheless, our objective was met by kicking the squatters out of our property. Thanks again, Dan.
‍
- Jacques F.
I am Kathy H., an attorney liaison who works on Surplus Funds matters nationwide. I am writing this review to express my sincere appreciation for the extreme professionalism and diligence of Frost Law - specifically the Annapolis, MD location. I especially want to express my respect for Attorney Daniel Staeven of Frost Law. He most certainly deserves a 5-Star review. He has worked with me directly on multiple Surplus Funds matters and he has been flawless in every situation. He has also gone above and beyond to provide the most excellent service possible. I would recommend Attorney Staeven and Frost Law without question."
‍
- Kathy H.
Frost Tax law was an incredible team to work with. Dan Staeven was quick to respond and had just the right amount of empathy for my personal situation. I highly recommend Frost and especially Dan Staeven to any and all who find themselves in need of this type of support.
‍
- William G.

Get in Touch Today

If you would like help filing for personal or business bankruptcy, you can call us at (410) 497-5947 or fill out our contact form. Let our team at Frost Law help you start living a debt-free life

FREE CONSULTATION

Frequently Asked Questions About Bankruptcy

Read some of the frequently asked questions about bankruptcy, chapters, credit reports, and more. If you still have questions, call us at (410) 497-5947 or fill out our contact form to schedule a confidential consultation.

Contact
What is bankruptcy?

Bankruptcy is a legal process that lets individuals or businesses that can't pay their debts seek help through the courts. It either removes certain debts entirely (called a "discharge") or creates a plan to pay back creditors over time. The discharge and payback results depend on which type of bankruptcy is filed. Bankruptcy law is governed by federal statute, so the same basic rules apply nationwide, though procedures can vary by area.

What happens when you file for bankruptcy?

When you file a bankruptcy petition, an "automatic stay" goes into effect immediately. This stops most creditor collections, including lawsuits, wage garnishments, phone calls, and (usually) foreclosure or repossession proceedings. A trustee is assigned to manage the process, review your financial situation, and oversee certain assets. You'll also need to complete credit counseling and provide detailed financial disclosures, including income, debts, assets, and recent financial transactions.

What is a Chapter 7 bankruptcy?

A Chapter 7 bankruptcy is often called a "liquidation" bankruptcy. A trustee may sell some assets to pay creditors, though many filers keep most or all of their property due to state and federal exemptions. This chapter is generally available to individuals and businesses who pass a "means test" showing their income falls below a certain threshold. Most qualifying debts are removed (or "discharged") within a few months, making Chapter 7 the fastest route to a fresh start for those who are eligible.

What is a Chapter 11 bankruptcy?

A Chapter 11 bankruptcy is mostly used by businesses and individuals with high debt who want to reorganize rather than sell their assets. The filer continues operating while proposing a repayment plan to creditors, which the court needs to approve. Chapter 11 tends to be more complex and costly than other chapters, but it allows companies to restructure debt, renegotiate contracts, and stay in business while working toward financial stability.

What is a Chapter 11 Subchapter V bankruptcy?

A Chapter 11 Subchapter V bankruptcy is a streamlined version of Chapter 11 designed for small businesses. It makes reorganization faster and less expensive than traditional Chapter 11. Subchapter V is available to businesses with debt below a statutory threshold, which Congress periodically adjusts. The important features of Subchapter V include the appointment of a trustee to help facilitate the case, no requirement for a disclosure statement, and no unsecured creditors' committee unless the court orders one. Business owners also retain more control over operations throughout the process, and only the debtor can propose the reorganization plan, which helps keep cases moving without competing plans from creditors.

What is a Chapter 13 bankruptcy?

A Chapter 13 bankruptcy is for individuals with average income who want to keep their property while repaying debts over a three- to five-year period. Rather than selling their assets, the filer proposes a repayment plan based on what they can reasonably afford. Chapter 13 is often chosen by those looking to catch up on mortgage arrears, stop foreclosure, or repay debts that wouldn't otherwise be dischargeable under Chapter 7.

Bankruptcy Law

Explore your debt relief options.

One conversation may be all it takes to take control of your situation.

If you're struggling to regain your financial footing while creditors become more aggressive, bankruptcy may be your best option for debt relief. This applies to individuals and business owners, whether you own an S Corp, LLC, or sole proprietorship.

Bankruptcy does not always mean selling your assets. You can find your fresh start in a variety of ways with several different debt relief options to consider. This means keeping your home, your car, your business, and any number of other assets. Talk to our bankruptcy lawyers today and learn how to get the fresh start you deserve.

Get Help Through Our Chat
HOW IT BEGINS

Take the Steps Towards Debt Relief

Dan and the bankruptcy attorneys at Frost Law can help you take your first step towards debt relief. They can untangle your financial situation through sound legal advice, taking control of creditor issues, and guiding you towards a fresh start.

1

Understand Your Financial Options

The first step is always the hardest. Contact us to learn about your bankruptcy options. Once you take that first step towards understanding that bankruptcy can be a solution rather than a problem, you can find the right bankruptcy lawyer for your situation.

2

Find Your Fresh Start

Filing for bankruptcy is one of many options for dealing with credit card debt, tax debt, business debt, and other liabilities. We can tailor a bankruptcy case filing for your specific situation. Learn how others got their fresh start and what makes sense for you.

3

Talk to a Bankruptcy Professional

Begin the process with a free, confidential consultation with one of our bankruptcy attorneys. We are experienced in bankruptcy options, tax debt, and planning your relief options. We typically schedule consultations the same day that you contact us.

Warning Signs

How to Know If You Need Bankruptcy

Deciding whether bankruptcy is right for you can feel overwhelming, but there are some common signs that it might be time to consider this option.

If any of these situations sound familiar, talking with a bankruptcy attorney can help you understand your options and figure out whether bankruptcy makes sense for your specific circumstances.

TALK THROUGH YOUR SITUATION
01

You're putting everyday expenses like groceries or utilities on credit cards and carrying that balance month after month.

02

Your monthly debt payments take up a large portion of your income.

03

You're having to choose between paying your credit card, rent, or medical bills.

04

You're falling behind on a mortgage.

05

Your wages are being garnished.

06

You're getting calls from debt collectors or being threatened with lawsuits.

WHO WILL HELP YOU

Meet Your Bankruptcy Team

Experienced in bankruptcy options, tax debt, and planning your relief — here to untangle your financial situation with sound legal advice.

Who will help you?

More Bankruptcy Resources on YouTube

Watch our "Let's Talk Bankruptcy" series with Dan Staeven, Esq. to learn how he approaches bankruptcy options and what may be best for you.

Learn more
In June 2021, attorney Daniel Staeven started to help my wife and me with a complex case in the Montgomery County District Court. The case was about squatters (previous owners) who were engaged in fraudulent acts in order to continue to reside at the property my wife and I purchased directly from the bank. If we did not have good representation, the squatters were probably going to still remain at our home. My wife and I are very thrilled for the service that Daniel Staeven provided. It was a long and bumpy road. Nonetheless, our objective was met by kicking the squatters out of our property. Thanks again, Dan.
‍
- Jacques F.
I am Kathy H., an attorney liaison who works on Surplus Funds matters nationwide. I am writing this review to express my sincere appreciation for the extreme professionalism and diligence of Frost Law - specifically the Annapolis, MD location. I especially want to express my respect for Attorney Daniel Staeven of Frost Law. He most certainly deserves a 5-Star review. He has worked with me directly on multiple Surplus Funds matters and he has been flawless in every situation. He has also gone above and beyond to provide the most excellent service possible. I would recommend Attorney Staeven and Frost Law without question."
‍
- Kathy H.
Frost Tax law was an incredible team to work with. Dan Staeven was quick to respond and had just the right amount of empathy for my personal situation. I highly recommend Frost and especially Dan Staeven to any and all who find themselves in need of this type of support.
‍
- William G.

Get in Touch Today

If you would like help filing for personal or business bankruptcy, you can call us at (410) 497-5947 or fill out our contact form. Let our team at Frost Law help you start living a debt-free life

Get Help Through Our Chat

Frequently Asked Questions About Bankruptcy

Read some of the frequently asked questions about bankruptcy, chapters, credit reports, and more. If you still have questions, call us at (410) 497-5947 or fill out our contact form to schedule a confidential consultation.

Contact
What is bankruptcy?

Bankruptcy is a legal process that lets individuals or businesses that can't pay their debts seek help through the courts. It either removes certain debts entirely (called a "discharge") or creates a plan to pay back creditors over time. The discharge and payback results depend on which type of bankruptcy is filed. Bankruptcy law is governed by federal statute, so the same basic rules apply nationwide, though procedures can vary by area.

What happens when you file for bankruptcy?

When you file a bankruptcy petition, an "automatic stay" goes into effect immediately. This stops most creditor collections, including lawsuits, wage garnishments, phone calls, and (usually) foreclosure or repossession proceedings. A trustee is assigned to manage the process, review your financial situation, and oversee certain assets. You'll also need to complete credit counseling and provide detailed financial disclosures, including income, debts, assets, and recent financial transactions.

What is a Chapter 7 bankruptcy?

A Chapter 7 bankruptcy is often called a "liquidation" bankruptcy. A trustee may sell some assets to pay creditors, though many filers keep most or all of their property due to state and federal exemptions. This chapter is generally available to individuals and businesses who pass a "means test" showing their income falls below a certain threshold. Most qualifying debts are removed (or "discharged") within a few months, making Chapter 7 the fastest route to a fresh start for those who are eligible.

What is a Chapter 11 bankruptcy?

A Chapter 11 bankruptcy is mostly used by businesses and individuals with high debt who want to reorganize rather than sell their assets. The filer continues operating while proposing a repayment plan to creditors, which the court needs to approve. Chapter 11 tends to be more complex and costly than other chapters, but it allows companies to restructure debt, renegotiate contracts, and stay in business while working toward financial stability.

What is a Chapter 11 Subchapter V bankruptcy?

A Chapter 11 Subchapter V bankruptcy is a streamlined version of Chapter 11 designed for small businesses. It makes reorganization faster and less expensive than traditional Chapter 11. Subchapter V is available to businesses with debt below a statutory threshold, which Congress periodically adjusts. The important features of Subchapter V include the appointment of a trustee to help facilitate the case, no requirement for a disclosure statement, and no unsecured creditors' committee unless the court orders one. Business owners also retain more control over operations throughout the process, and only the debtor can propose the reorganization plan, which helps keep cases moving without competing plans from creditors.

What is a Chapter 13 bankruptcy?

A Chapter 13 bankruptcy is for individuals with average income who want to keep their property while repaying debts over a three- to five-year period. Rather than selling their assets, the filer proposes a repayment plan based on what they can reasonably afford. Chapter 13 is often chosen by those looking to catch up on mortgage arrears, stop foreclosure, or repay debts that wouldn't otherwise be dischargeable under Chapter 7.