Arizona's Premier Bankruptcy & Debt Defense Law Firm
Your Path to a Debt-Free Future starts here
Built around what matters to you.
- Free consultation
- Affordable flat fees
- Payment plans available
Pick a time for your free consultation.
Choose a day and time that works for you. You'll talk through your situation with our team and leave knowing where you stand.
- Free, no-obligation consultation
- Honest answers about bankruptcy and debt defense
- Serving clients across Arizona
Prefer to talk now? Call (602) 887-6992
Serious debt problems.
Clear answers.
Every situation is different. We start by understanding yours, then build a plan around the outcome that matters most to you and your family.
Bankruptcy
Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 relief that stops collection calls, lawsuits, and garnishments, and gives you a true fresh start.
Explore bankruptcy 02Debt defense
Sued by a debt collector? We fight back, protect your paycheck, and push for a dismissal or a settlement you can afford.
Explore debt defense 03Means test calculator
See in a few minutes whether your income likely qualifies for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Arizona.
Try the calculator 04Free legal education
More than 1,100 free Consumer Warrior videos from attorney John Skiba on bankruptcy, debt collectors, and your rights.
Watch the videosArizona's trusted choice for a fresh start.
When you're facing overwhelming debt, you need more than legal paperwork. You need someone who understands your situation and has the track record to help. For more than 20 years, attorney John Skiba and our team have helped Arizonans stop collectors, fight lawsuits, and erase millions of dollars in debt.
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Compassion
We treat every client with dignity and respect, and meet you where you are, without judgment.
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Communication
Clear explanations and steady updates, so you always know where your case stands.
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Competence
Deep legal expertise and decisive action on every matter. We don't guess.
Three steps to a
fresh start.
Whether you're considering bankruptcy or fighting a debt collector, the path forward is the same, and you'll know where things stand at every step.
Schedule Your Free Consultation
Sit down with one of our attorneys for a zero-pressure, zero-judgment conversation. We listen. You leave knowing exactly where you stand — no fees, no commitment.
Build Your Plan Together
We review the full picture — debts, income, lawsuits, goals — and walk you through every option, from debt defense to Chapter 7 or 13 bankruptcy. You decide what's right for you.
Get Your Fresh Start
Most bankruptcy cases can be filed within three weeks at a low flat fee. For debt defense, we move fast to stop the lawsuit. Affordable payment plans are available for both — you focus on rebuilding while we handle the rest.
A little clarity, right from the start.
What to know about bankruptcy and debt collection lawsuits in Arizona.
Have another question?
Talk to our team
Bankruptcy
How much does it cost to file bankruptcy in Arizona?
Arizona Consumer Law Group offers transparent flat-fee pricing with payment plans available. Costs vary based on whether you file Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 and the complexity of your case. Schedule a free consultation to get an exact quote for your situation.
What is the difference between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy?
Chapter 7 bankruptcy discharges most unsecured debts (like credit cards and medical bills) in about 3-4 months with no repayment plan. Chapter 13 involves a 3-5 year repayment plan and is used to catch up on mortgage or car payments, or when you earn too much to qualify for Chapter 7.
Will I lose my house or car if I file bankruptcy in Arizona?
Most people who file bankruptcy in Arizona keep their home and car. Arizona has generous exemption laws that protect equity in your home, vehicle, household goods, and retirement accounts. Our attorneys analyze your assets before filing to ensure everything important is protected.
Does bankruptcy stop wage garnishment and debt collectors?
Yes. The moment your bankruptcy is filed, an automatic stay goes into effect that immediately stops wage garnishments, debt collector calls, lawsuits, and most collection activity. This federal court protection applies to all creditors.
How long does bankruptcy stay on my credit report?
A Chapter 7 bankruptcy stays on your credit report for 10 years and Chapter 13 stays for 7 years. However, most clients see their credit scores recover within 1-2 years after filing because unmanageable debt is eliminated.
Debt collection lawsuits
What should I do if I'm being sued by a debt collector in Arizona?
Do not ignore the lawsuit. You typically have 20-30 days to respond in Arizona. Failing to answer results in a default judgment against you, which can lead to wage garnishment and bank account levies. Contact an Arizona debt defense attorney immediately — many cases can be dismissed or settled favorably when properly defended.
Can I be sued for a debt that's old in Arizona?
Arizona has a statute of limitations on most consumer debts — generally 6 years for written contracts. If a debt collector sues you on a time-barred debt, you have a strong defense and may even have a claim against them under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA).
Do I really need an attorney to fight a debt collection lawsuit?
Yes. Debt collectors file thousands of lawsuits knowing most consumers won't respond or fight back. Having an experienced Arizona debt defense attorney dramatically increases your chances of getting the case dismissed, reducing the amount owed, or settling on favorable terms.
Can debt collectors garnish my wages in Arizona?
Only after they obtain a court judgment against you. Arizona law allows up to 25% of disposable earnings to be garnished. Successfully defending or settling a lawsuit before judgment prevents garnishment entirely.
What common debt collectors sue people in Arizona?
We regularly defend clients against lawsuits from Midland Credit Management, Portfolio Recovery Associates, LVNV Funding, Cavalry SPV, Discover Bank, Capital One, Citibank, and Velocity Investments. Many of these cases have strong defenses available.
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Learn your rights with John Skiba.
Weekly videos on bankruptcy, debt collection lawsuits, and consumer law in Arizona.