Choosing the Right Bankruptcy Attorney in Lubbock

Finding the Right Bankruptcy Attorney in Lubbock, TX

Feel like you’re doing everything you can, but still can’t get ahead? You're not alone. A bankruptcy attorney in Lubbock Texas may be able to help you get the relief you need.

The “Hub City” of West Texas, Lubbock, has a strong agricultural economy with a cost of living lower than the national average. The median household income in Lubbock is approximately $60,000, but still sufficient to sustain a modest lifestyle in Texas.

This doesn’t imply that residents in Lubbock, Texas, are immune to financial strain. Families and individuals often find themselves overwhelmed by credit card balances, medical bills, farm or small business debt, and sudden job losses. The continually rising costs for housing, healthcare, and education quickly make steady incomes feel insufficient.

Bankruptcy filings in the Northern District of Texas often reflect this reality. A steady stream of cases in the Lubbock region demonstrates that even in a resilient community, people need the fresh start a bankruptcy can provide.

The key is finding the right Lubbock bankruptcy attorney who is familiar with the area. They’ve been in the local courts, have relationships with trustees, and know exactly how to protect your assets, while easing your stress.

Why You Need a Local Lubbock Bankruptcy Attorney

When financial stress is rising to the top, many West Texans start searching for a bankruptcy attorney in Lubbock, TX. While you may encounter ads from out-of-state firms, choosing a local lawyer offers better advantages.

Lubbock has its own court system, a unique blend of farm, oilfield, and small business debts, as well as cost-of-living challenges that necessitate specialized local expertise.

Reason #1) Texas Exemptions Work Differently

Texas has some of the most generous bankruptcy exemptions in the country, but they’re also quite particular. Whether a family home on the South Plains, farm equipment, or a personal vehicle, a Lubbock bankruptcy attorney knows how to apply the right exemptions to protect your property.

For example, the Texas homestead exemption protects unlimited equity in your primary residence, with a provision allowing each licensed household member to keep one vehicle.

Reason #2) Familiarity With the Lubbock Bankruptcy Court

Bankruptcy cases for Lubbock residents are filed in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Texas (Lubbock Division on Texas Avenue).

A local attorney has direct experience with the specific trustees and judges who oversee cases in Lubbock, which helps avoid surprises and ensures your petition moves smoothly through the system.

Reason #3) Highly Accessible Support

Hiring a bankruptcy attorney in Lubbock, TX, means you have someone nearby who understands the local economy and is familiar with the specific laws and regulations applicable to the area.

Whether you’re worried about foreclosure on a Lubbock home, repossession of a vehicle, or wage garnishment from an employer, a bankruptcy attorney Lubbock, TX region can act quickly to protect your rights. Many providers also offer free consultations, allowing you to explore your options before making a decision.

Do You Qualify for Bankruptcy in Lubbock?

Before filing your paperwork, one of the first things a Lubbock bankruptcy attorney will check what bankruptcy you qualify for under federal and state laws.

The important part of this process is the bankruptcy means test. This test determines whether you are eligible for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Lubbock or whether you must pursue Chapter 13 debt reorganization instead.

What is the Means Test?

The means test for bankruptcy is designed to ensure that only Lubbock residents who genuinely need debt relief have access to Chapter 7. It has two parts:

• Median Income Comparison: If your household income is below the Texas median, you will automatically pass.
• Disposable Income Calculation: If income is above the median, the court will review your allowed expenses (mortgage, car payments, taxes, food, utilities, healthcare, etc.) to determine whether you have enough money to repay debts under Chapter 13.

Lubbock Median Income Thresholds (2024/2025)

Why It Matters in Lubbock

Lubbock may be known for the affordable cost of living (compared to larger Texas cities), but families still struggle with overwhelming debt. Even with modest housing costs, a paycheck can only go so far when supporting an entire household—especially with rising utility, fuel, and education expenses.

A bankruptcy attorney in Lubbock, TX, helps determine whether Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 is the best option, making sure your personal financial situation is accurately represented and that all assets are protected under Texas law.

Understanding Bankruptcy Options in Lubbock

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy in Lubbock (Fresh Start)

Chapter 7 bankruptcy provides a fresh start by discharging most unsecured debts, including medical bills, credit cards, and personal loans. For many Lubbock residents, this is the fastest way to eliminate debt and move forward, often taking only three to six months. You can find more information on chapter 7 bankruptcy here.

Exemptions Specific to Texas

• Homestead exemption: Unlimited equity in your primary residence (up to 10 acres in an urban area or 100 acres rural for individuals, 200 acres rural for families). This means that most homeowners in Lubbock can fully protect their homes.
• Motor vehicle exemption: One vehicle per licensed household member (regardless of value).
• Other exemptions: Personal property (clothing, furniture, firearms, livestock, jewelry, and tools of the trade) up to $50,000 for an individual or $100,000 for a family.
• Retirement accounts: 401(k)s, IRAs, and pensions are fully exempt.

A skilled bankruptcy attorney in Lubbock, TX, ensures these protections are correctly applied so you can keep essential assets while eliminating debt.

Trustee Assignment

When you file for Chapter 7 in Lubbock, the U.S. Trustee Program assigns a local trustee from the Northern District of Texas. This person’s role is to review your petition, oversee the 341 meeting of creditors, and determine if any non-exempt assets need to be sold for repayments.

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy in Lubbock (Debt Reorganization)

For individuals (or families) with a steady income or significant non-exempt assets, Chapter 13 offers a means to reorganize debt while preserving valuable property. This is especially important for homeowners, farmers, or small business owners in Lubbock who want to stop foreclosure or restructure secured debts.

Chapter 13 Filing Statistics

• Over 12 months (ending June 30, 2025), total filings were 542,529 (up 11.5% from the previous year).
• Between 2000 and 2023, Texas saw 43,985 Chapter 13 cases filed, with the most recent year reported in a large American Bankruptcy Institute (ABI) study.
• Local attorney fees for Chapter 13 cases typically range from $2,500 to $3,825.

How Chapter 13 Repayment Plans Are Structured

A Lubbock bankruptcy attorney can design a repayment plan that fits your budget, giving you room to recover financially while keeping your property.

• Plans are spread out over 3 to 5 years.
• Payments are based on income, necessary expenses, and non-exempt property values.
• Chapter 13 immediately stops foreclosure, repossession, and wage garnishment while allowing you to repay what you can afford.

Bankruptcy Courts Serving Lubbock Residents

Bankruptcy cases in Lubbock fall under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Texas - Lubbock Division.

Filing and Jurisdiction Notes for Lubbock Cases

• The George Mahon Federal Building houses the clerk’s office for bankruptcy filings in Lubbock. Residents can file petitions and related documents there, though electronic filing (ECF) is mandatory for attorneys.
• There’s a document drop box available for filings, typically near the clerk’s office entrance.
• The U.S. Trustee’s Office for Region 6 oversees bankruptcy cases in the Northern District of Texas, including Lubbock. They handle trustee assignments, 341 meetings, and case oversight.
• The Lubbock Division is staffed by bankruptcy judges who hear both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 cases. Chapter 7 trustees administer liquidation cases, while a standing Chapter 13 trustee manages repayment plans.


• Always confirm the most up-to-date details via the Northern District of Texas Bankruptcy Court website to verify judge assignments and trustee information.
• The court is staffed by several bankruptcy judges who oversee both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 filings. A panel of Chapter 7 trustees administers liquidation cases, while a single standing Chapter 13 trustee (such as Devin Derham-Burk) generally manages repayment plan cases.
• Always check the most up-to-date details via the Northern District of Texas Bankruptcy Court website to confirm your assigned trustee and judge.

Cost of Bankruptcy in Lubbock, TX

One of the top questions families ask is: How much does it cost to file bankruptcy with a lawyer?

• Court filing fees: Chapter 7 about $338, Chapter 11 about $313
• Typical attorney fees: Chapter 7 is typically $1,000-$2,500+ for individual cases in Texas. Chapter 13 is typically more expensive, costing anywhere from $3,000 to $5,000.

What Can Affect the Cost?

• Complexity of your assets and debts
• Attorney experience
• Upfront vs. payment plan
• Credit counselling/debtor education courses

The Bankruptcy Process: Step-by-Step for Lubbock Residents

Here’s what to expect when hiring a bankruptcy lawyer in Lubbock:

• It starts with an online search for an “inexpensive or free bankruptcy lawyer consultation near me.” Once you hire an attorney, use the time to discuss your debts, income, and goals.
• Next, you file with the court. An automatic stay takes effect to stop foreclosure and wage garnishment.
• Bankruptcy trustee meetings are your chance to answer a few simple questions.
• Discharge happens last. Depending on whether it is Chapter 7 or Chapter 13, debts are either erased or reorganized.

Protecting Your Assets Under Texas Law

Bankruptcy exemptions in Texas protect these assets:

• Your home equity (unlimited).
• Your car (value is of no consequence)
• Household goods, clothing, and retirement accounts.

A skilled Lubbock bankruptcy attorney will always ensure you’re not left without the things you need to rebuild.

Local Bankruptcy Resources for Lubbock Residents

Bankruptcy Trustee Contacts (U.S. Trustee Program)

The U.S. Trustee Program oversees bankruptcy proceedings (including trustee assignments)for Lubbock, TX

Key local contact: Trustee Katherine L. Davis

Address: Office of Trustee Katherine L. Davis, 1407 Buddy Holly Avenue, Lubbock, TX 79401
Phone: (806) 748-6699

Bankruptcy Statistics in Lubbock

• In 2024, there were 544 business bankruptcy cases filed in the Northern District of Texas (all divisions combined). This gives a sense of the commercial pressure in the area.
• Residential bankruptcy filings (U.S.) rose by ~14-15% in 2024 over 2023.
• Local attorneys in Lubbock estimate Chapter 7 lawyer fees between $1,777–$2,642, and Chapter 13 fees between $2,500–$3,825 in Lubbock. This indicates Chapter 13 issues are common enough to have well-defined local fee ranges.

Bankruptcy Alternatives in Lubbock

A Lubbock bankruptcy consultation can explore these options beyond filing:

• Debt settlement
• Credit counseling
• Consolidation loans

For many Lubbock residents, these alternatives only work to delay the inevitable. A localized Lubbock attorney will help you weigh the advantages and disadvantages of filing for bankruptcy.

Key Qualities to Look for in a Lubbock Bankruptcy Attorney

When you’re searching for the best bankruptcy lawyer Lubbock, TX has to offer, look for:

• Deeply embedded regional Texas knowledge
• Years of experience with Lubbock cases
• Quick responses—don’t wait days for answers.
• The best bankruptcy lawyer near Lubbock with reviews to see who other neighbors recommend.
• Credentials with the Texas bankruptcy law firm community.

Lubbock Bankruptcy FAQs

Do I need a lawyer to file for bankruptcy?

While it is possible to file on your own, it is highly recommended that you work with a bankruptcy attorney in Lubbock, TX. A local attorney is familiar with Texas exemptions, trustees, and procedures within the Northern District of Texas court system. Having professional guidance helps you avoid mistakes, maximize the assets you can protect, and ensure the case moves smoothly.

Where do Lubbock residents attend their 341 meeting?

For Chapter 7, 12, and 13 cases filed on or after May 1, 2024, §341 “meeting of creditors” hearings are conducted by Zoom videoconference.

If the trustee or U.S. Trustee orders an in-person appearance, the meeting will take place at the George Mahon Federal Building, 1205 Texas Avenue, Lubbock, TX 79401.

Can I keep my house or car?

The majority of the time, yes. Texas provides some of the strongest property protections in the country:

• Homestead exemption: Unlimited equity protection in your residence, limited only by acreage (10 acres urban, 100 acres rural for individuals, 200 acres rural for families).
• Car exemption: One vehicle per licensed household member, regardless of value.

A bankruptcy lawyer in Lubbock, TX, ensures these exemptions are applied correctly to protect your assets.

How long does bankruptcy stay on a credit report?

It will stay on for 7–10 years. Rebuilding credit after bankruptcy discharge is possible with strategic planning.

What is the median income for the 2025 Texas means test?

For cases filed after May 2025, the statewide median for one person is approximately $63,448. Add roughly $11,100 for each additional household member when assessing Chapter 7 eligibility.

Will bankruptcy stop a foreclosure on my Lubbock home?

Yes. Filing for bankruptcy triggers the automatic stay, which immediately halts foreclosure proceedings. In Chapter 13, you can catch up on missed mortgage payments over 3–5 years. In Chapter 7, you gain temporary protection while you evaluate options with your Lubbock bankruptcy attorney.

Are 401(k)s and IRAs safe in a Texas bankruptcy?

Qualified retirement plans (such as 401(k)s, IRAs, and CalPERS pensions) are fully exempt under both Texas systems, meaning they can’t be seized by the trustee or used to calculate Chapter 13 repayment amounts.

How long does the bankruptcy process take in Lubbock?

• Chapter 7 (no-asset cases): Usually 4–6 months from filing to discharge.
• Chapter 13: Lasts 3–5 years, since you repay debts through a structured plan.

Remote hearings, mandatory electronic filing, and the Lubbock court’s established process help keep most cases on schedule.

Bankruptcy Success Stories in Lubbock

1. The Family Farm That Stayed in the Family

The Johnson family outside of Lubbock faced mounting debt after years of drought and rising equipment costs. Creditors were threatening foreclosure on land that had been in the family for three generations. By filing for Chapter 13, the Johnsons were able to reorganize their farm-related debts and catch up on overdue payments. With the protection of Texas exemptions, they kept their homestead and essential farming equipment. Today, their farm continues to operate, and the family is on track to complete their repayment plan.

2. A Teacher’s Fresh Start

Maria, a public school teacher in Lubbock, found herself overwhelmed by medical bills and credit card debt after an unexpected health crisis. Her wages were at risk of garnishment, and she feared losing her modest home near Texas Tech. With the help of a local bankruptcy attorney, she filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. The unlimited Texas homestead exemption allowed her to keep her house, and most of her unsecured debt was discharged in just a few months. Maria now focuses on her career and health without the constant burden of debt collectors.

3. Small Business Owner Rebuilds

David owned a small auto repair shop in central Lubbock. After the pandemic slowdown, he was left with past-due business loans and personal guarantees he couldn’t meet. Facing lawsuits from creditors, he turned to Chapter 13 bankruptcy. By restructuring his debts, David kept his tools of the trade and the vehicle exemptions that Texas law provides. This allowed him to continue running his shop while paying back creditors under a court-approved plan. Two years later, his business is stable again, and he has regained the confidence of both customers and lenders.

Take the Next Step Toward Financial Freedom in Lubbock

Everyone deserves a fresh start. Don’t wait until wage garnishments or foreclosure notices arrive. Choose a local Lubbock bankruptcy attorney who cares about your case.