FAQ

Our FAQ

Have questions? We are here to help. Still have questions or can't find the answer you need? Give us a call at 619-639-9228 today!

  • Do I Need an Attorney to File for Bankruptcy?

    You are not required to have an attorney when filing for bankruptcy. However, having an attorney can make the process easier and less stressful. Your lawyer can help you with all the paperwork, explain how bankruptcy laws work, and work with trustees and creditors on your behalf. Your attorney can be there to answer any questions you have and resolve disputes that can arise. 

  • Can I Keep My Home and Car in Bankruptcy?

    Most people who file for bankruptcy can keep their primary residence and vehicles as long as they are able to keep up with the payments. There are bankruptcy exemptions that may be able to cover the equity of your vehicle and home, which can prevent them from liquidation in Chapter 7. If you are filing for Chapter 13, you will most likely be able to keep your home while repaying any debts using a payment plan.

  • What Will Happen to My Credit Score When I File Bankruptcy?

    Filing for bankruptcy can cause your credit score to drop initially. However, if you are able to keep up with your payments and do not accrue additional debt, you can slowly begin to rebuild your credit. The bankruptcy will also eventually fall off your credit report after a specified period of time. 

  • Do I Need an Attorney to File for Bankruptcy?

    While it is not required for you to have a legal representative in order to file for bankruptcy, it is highly advisable. Working with a skilled legal team can help you avoid mistakes and make it more likely to obtain a successful outcome. At Debt Relief Legal Clinic, our San Diego bankruptcy lawyers have the knowledge and experience to guide you through the bankruptcy process effectively.

  • Will I Own Anything After Bankruptcy?

    Although many think that they cannot own anything for a specific amount of time after the bankruptcy process, this is not true. Individuals are allowed to keep all of their "exempt" property, as well as anything they obtain subsequent to filing for bankruptcy. An exception to this rule is receiving a property settlement, life insurance benefits, or an inheritance within 180 days of your bankruptcy. If that money or property is not exempt, it will need to be used to pay your creditors.

  • Will Bankruptcy Eliminate All My Debts?

    While many types of debts can be discharged or eliminated, there are some debt obligations that will not be wiped out by filing for bankruptcy. Those debts that are nondischargeable include certain unpaid taxes, money owed for alimony or child support, debts that resulted from "willful and malicious" harm, and student loans. The types of debts that can be discharged include credit card bills, personal loans, late utility bills, and medical bills.

  • Which Type of Bankruptcy Is Right for Me?

    If your disposable income is low enough to pass the “means test,” you may file for Chapter 7. Otherwise, you will need to file for Chapter 13. You may also choose to file for Chapter 13 if you wish to keep your assets, rather than losing them through liquidation. Our certified bankruptcy specialists in San Diego can evaluate your situation and help you make an informed decision about which chapter is right for you.

  • What Is the Difference between Chapter 7 & Chapter 13 Bankruptcy?

    Chapter 7 bankruptcy involves liquidating one's non-exempt assets to repay as much as possible to one's creditors. Once the funds are depleted, the remaining unsecured debts will be discharged. Chapter 13 bankruptcy involves restructuring one's debts into a repayment plan that lasts for three to five years. After successful completion of the plan, the debtor is released from the obligation to pay the remaining unsecured debts.

  • What is Bankruptcy?

    Bankruptcy is a legal proceeding for individuals or businesses who have insufficient funds to repay their creditors. Filing for bankruptcy not only helps people get many of their debts discharged, but also puts a stop to creditor harassment, foreclosure attempts, and repossession efforts.


    “John and his team DELIVERED!”
    John and his team provide top tier services with a price point that will not set you back. The value is unmatched. I knew I found the right place after my first Zoom meeting with John. After dealing with different attorneys in different arenas, I was a skeptic before meeting John face to face. After our initial meeting all my fears were gone. John is very down to earth and very easy to talk to. I did not sense the slightest hint of ego or intimidation that I have seen with other attorneys. John and his team DELIVERED! I felt that with the guidance and information given to me by this company that I had full confidence in this solution to my challenges. Not only did i have confidence in Johns knowledge of his profession, I had full confidence that all of Johns team were there to support me with any questions or concerns. I feel a thousand pounds lighter after this experience with DRLC and i would send my closest friends and family in their direction if ever the situation arose.
    - Matthew B.
    “I can't say enough about how wonderful the staff and the attorneys are to work with through the process.”
    I want to recommend the Debt Relief Clinic for their wonderful service and knowledge, which you need when you're at a tough time in your life. I can't say enough about how wonderful the staff and the attorneys are to work with through the process. They give wonderful advice and always answer any questions very quickly. I really recommend this law firm.
    - Laura M.
    “I wish I could give him more than 5 stars.”
    John Colwell is a great attorney. I had a difficult case but he was able to get it done. This has changed my life. I wish I could give him more than 5 stars.
    - Terry D.
    “John Colwell and Daniel Wiedecker handled our bankruptcy very professionally and we are very pleased with their legal services.”
    John Colwell and Daniel Wiedecker handled our bankruptcy very professionally and we are very pleased with their legal services, attention to our questions and knowledge in their field of law.  We would recommend anyone to this law firm.  They are specialists and you are in good hands with this talented group of professionals.
    - Allie F.
    “Mr. Colwell goes the extra mile for his clients! I really appreciated his time and extra time for a zoom meeting during covid-19 pandemic to answer my additional questions prior to discharge!”

    Mr. John Colwell and his team helped me get through chapter 7 without a glitch! I'm so thankful for the support I received over the past year. I had lots of life changes this past year and I knew what I needed to do financially and who to call. I met Mr. Colwell in 2002 when I needed support and a chapter 7. He also helped my husband with his chapter 13. I was so happy he was still in downtown SD all these years later and available to meet with me when I was ready. Mr. Colwell goes the extra mile for his clients! I really appreciated his time and extra time for a zoom mtg. during covid-19 pandemic to answer my additional questions prior to discharge! Financial Freedom is an awesome feeling! I'm looking forward to what comes next in life!! Won't be making the same mistakes. Live and learn! I recommend it! Thank you so much! Stay safe!   

    - Lori Kalman Adkins
    “They were prompt and reminded me often of what the next requirements were so that I never skipped a beat.”
    Mr. Colwell and his team were awesome in assisting me through what started as a Chapter 13 and converted to a Chapter 7. They were prompt and reminded me often of what the next requirements were so that I never skipped a beat. The courts know his team and work with them to see to it that matters get resolved quickly. I would encourage anyone considering bankruptcy to contact DRLC first!
    - Lisa H.
    “He basically held our hands throughout the whole process and made it much less stressful for us.”
    Mr. Colwell is an excellent attorney.  Thanks to him, my husband and I have a new start without being mired in credit card debt.  He basically held our hands throughout the whole process and made it much less stressful for us. Thank you, Mr. Colwell!
    - Chris A.
    “It is truly a "bankruptcy miracle", and you can have one, too. I can't say enough about DRLC!”
    Unfortunately, I had to file BK 13; but luckily, I found Debt Relief Legal Clinic. It was recommended by a friend who was worried about me because I originally filed pro se (without an attorney). I can't even imagine what would have happened if I had continued pro se. (Well, actually I do know: the case would've been dismissed immediately, and I would've been screwed) But the brilliance of this team has kept my case alive for over a year now, and I can't thank them enough! It is truly a "bankruptcy miracle", and you can have one, too. I can't say enough about DRLC, but let me put it simply, You're CRAZY if you use anyone else or represent yourself! ;)
    - Nadine B.

Why Choose Debt Relief Legal Clinic?

  • Certified Bankruptcy Specialist
    Attorney John C. Colwell has been recognized by the State Bar of California as one of 12 certified legal specialists in San Diego County for Bankruptcy Law.
  • Experienced
    Our attorney has over 35 years of experience and has dedicated the firm to consumer bankruptcy.
  • Bilingual
    Our legal team is bilingual and serve our clients in English and Spanish.
  • Immediate Past President of NACBA
    John C. Colwell has been a member of NACBA for 25 years and is the Immediate Past President.
  • Personal Approach
    We are a family-oriented business, committed to helping you get relief from debt.
  • Affordable

    We offer free consultations and take online payments for your convenience.

Contact Us Today

Start Your Free Consultation Now
  • Please enter your first name.
  • Please enter your last name.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please enter a message.
  • By submitting, you agree to be contacted about your request & other information using automated technology. Message frequency varies. Msg & data rates may apply. Text STOP to cancel. Acceptable Use Policy

Awards & Memberships