According to statistics released by the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts, 591,850 bankruptcy cases were filed during the 12-month period ending March 31, 2026. That represents an 11.9% increase over the 529,080 cases filed during the previous 12-month period. Nonbusiness filings, which primarily involve individuals and households, also increased 11.9%, reaching 565,890 cases.
The federal judiciary reports that total bankruptcy filings have increased during every quarter since reaching a recent low in June 2022. Although filings remain below historic levels, the continued upward trend indicates that more individuals and businesses are turning to the bankruptcy system for relief.
Financial Problems Often Develop Gradually
Understandably, most consumers do not begin searching for bankruptcy lawyers near me after one missed payment. Financial pressure often builds over time as interest, late fees and collection activity make it increasingly difficult to catch up.
Warning signs that it may be time to speak with a bankruptcy attorney can include:
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Using credit cards to pay for groceries or basic household expenses
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Falling further behind despite making regular payments
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Receiving collection calls, demand letters or lawsuit notices
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Facing a possible wage garnishment
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Missing vehicle or mortgage payments
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Borrowing money to pay other debts
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Considering withdrawals from retirement accounts to satisfy creditors
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Being unable to develop a realistic plan for repaying accumulated debt
Speaking with an attorney does not obligate someone to file bankruptcy. A consultation can help a consumer understand whether bankruptcy may be appropriate, which chapter could apply and what alternatives may be available.
“Bankruptcy is not the right solution for every financial problem, but people should have accurate information before deciding what to do,” said attorney Lee Ringler. “Understanding the options early can help someone make a more informed decision instead of reacting to an immediate crisis.”
Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 Serve Different Purposes
Bankruptcy is governed by federal law, and each type of case has its own eligibility requirements, procedures and potential consequences.
Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 are the two chapters most commonly used by individual consumers. Chapter 7 is generally associated with the discharge of qualifying debts, while Chapter 13 involves a court-approved repayment plan for individuals with regular income.
A Chapter 13 plan may be used to address certain past-due secured debts, priority obligations and other claims over time. The amount that must be paid and whether a proposed plan is workable depend on the filer’s income, expenses, property and debts.
Neither chapter is automatically the correct choice for every consumer. Property ownership, household income, recent financial transactions, secured debts, tax obligations and prior bankruptcy cases can all affect a person’s options.
Experience Matters When Comparing Bankruptcy Lawyers Near Me
An online search can quickly produce advertisements, directories and lists of attorneys. However, proximity alone does not establish whether a lawyer regularly handles bankruptcy cases or has substantial experience with the bankruptcy process.
Consumers comparing bankruptcy lawyers near me should consider:
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Whether the attorney focuses regularly or exclusively on bankruptcy law
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Experience handling both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 cases
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Familiarity with the applicable courts, trustees and procedures
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Whether the attorney clearly explains fees and potential outcomes
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Whether clients receive direct answers to their questions
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Whether the attorney practices in the state where the case will be filed
Lee Ringler opened his Augusta law office in 1979 and has handled bankruptcy cases exclusively since the mid-1980s. The firm represents consumers in both Georgia and South Carolina and provides information about Chapter 7, Chapter 13, secured and unsecured debts, bankruptcy exemptions and common bankruptcy misconceptions.
Avoiding Decisions That Could Complicate a Case
People experiencing financial stress may be tempted to transfer property, repay selected family members, cash out retirement savings or take on additional debt before consulting an attorney. Some actions taken shortly before filing can affect a bankruptcy case.
Lee Ringler Law Offices advises consumers to obtain legal guidance before making major financial decisions based solely on advice from friends, creditors or information found on social media.
An experienced attorney can review the person’s circumstances, identify potential concerns and explain what information and documents may be needed. This review can also help consumers avoid relying on bankruptcy myths that do not accurately reflect federal law or their individual situation.
Serving Consumers Throughout the CSRA
Lee Ringler Law Offices serves clients throughout the greater Augusta area and CSRA, including Augusta, Evans, Martinez and Grovetown in Georgia, as well as North Augusta and Aiken in South Carolina. The firm handles Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy matters and offers free consultations.
Residents searching for bankruptcy lawyers near me can call or text Lee Ringler Law Offices at 706-724-4000 to request a consultation.
About Lee Ringler Law Offices
Lee Ringler Law Offices is an Augusta-based law firm focused exclusively on consumer bankruptcy law. Attorney Lee Ringler opened his Augusta office in 1979 and has concentrated solely on bankruptcy cases since the mid-1980s. The firm represents individuals considering Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy throughout the greater Augusta area and surrounding communities in Georgia and South Carolina.
Lee Ringler Law Offices helps Augusta GA and CSRA residents explore bankruptcy options as filings rise. Schedule a free consultation: 706-724-4000.
Media Contact
Company Name: Lee Ringler Law Offices
Contact Person: Lee Ringler
Email: Send Email
Phone: 706-724-4000
Address:1450 Greene St # 222
City: Augusta
State: GA
Country: United States
Website: https://www.leeringler.com/