TL;DR (In short): The Law Office of Tammy M. Holcomb helps Rome, Georgia residents eliminate overwhelming debt through Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Manufacturing job loss, medical bills, and credit card debt can be discharged in 3-4 months. Free consultation for Floyd County residents facing financial hardship.
If you're a Rome resident drowning in credit card debt, medical bills, or struggling after job loss, Chapter 7 bankruptcy might be the fresh start you need. At the Law Office of Tammy M. Holcomb, I understand that Rome's manufacturing-based economy creates unique financial challenges when plants close, hours get cut, or healthcare costs spiral out of control.
My goal isn't just to process your bankruptcy paperwork – it's to build a relationship where you feel comfortable coming back to me for future needs and referring friends and family who might be facing similar financial struggles. Unlike many attorneys who treat bankruptcy as a volume business, my focus is on you as an individual and the specific circumstances that brought you to this point.
Not everyone qualifies for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Georgia residents must pass the "means test" – a calculation that compares your income to the state median for your household size. For Rome families, this often works in your favor if you've experienced job loss or reduced income from manufacturing sector changes.
2024 Georgia Median Income Guidelines:
●1 person: $53,838
●2 people: $67,163
●3 people: $81,952
●4 people: $99,266
If your income is below these levels, you likely qualify for Chapter 7. If you're above but have high expenses or special circumstances, you might still qualify – that's where my experience helps determine the best approach for your situation.
Plant Closures and Layoffs: If you've been laid off from a Rome manufacturing job, your reduced income may now qualify you for Chapter 7 even if you previously earned too much. We can time your filing strategically to maximize your benefits.
Variable Income: Many Rome residents work in industries with seasonal fluctuations or overtime variations. Chapter 7 calculations look at your average income over six months, so timing can be crucial.
Workers' Compensation: If you're receiving workers' comp after a manufacturing injury, these payments don't count as "income" for bankruptcy purposes, potentially helping you qualify for Chapter 7.
Pension Protection: Georgia law provides strong protection for retirement accounts, meaning your 401(k) or pension from years at Rome's manufacturing plants remains safe in Chapter 7.
Step 1: Free Consultation We'll meet to review your debts, income, assets, and goals. I don't require that you've tried other options first or been denied anything – I'm here to help from the beginning.
Step 2: Means Test and Document Review I'll help you gather necessary documents and complete the means test to confirm Chapter 7 eligibility.
Step 3: Petition Filing Once filed with the Middle District of Georgia Bankruptcy Court, creditor harassment stops immediately through the automatic stay.
Step 4: Meeting of Creditors About 4-6 weeks after filing, you'll attend a brief meeting with the bankruptcy trustee. I'll prepare you and attend with you.
Step 5: Discharge Typically 60 days after your meeting, you'll receive a discharge order eliminating your qualifying debts.
Georgia's bankruptcy exemptions are designed to help you maintain basic necessities and restart your financial life:
●Homestead: Up to $21,500 in home equity ($43,000 for married couples)
●Vehicle: Up to $5,000 in car equity
●Personal Property: $1,200 in jewelry, $5,000 in household goods
●Wildcard: $1,200 that can be applied to any property
●Retirement Accounts: 401(k), IRA, and pensions are fully protected
If you're a Rome resident struggling with overwhelming debt, don't wait until your situation becomes even more difficult. Chapter 7 bankruptcy can provide the fresh start you need to rebuild your financial life.
Call or text me at 678.665.9885 or email me to schedule a free consultation. We'll review your complete situation and determine if Chapter 7 is the right solution for your family.
