Massachusetts Bankruptcy Law

Helping You Achieve Your Financial Fresh Start

Since 2004, Attorney Matthew C. Swanson has focused entirely on consumer and small business bankruptcy — helping hundreds of Massachusetts families and business owners stop foreclosure, eliminate debt, and move forward.

Since 2004
Focused on Bankruptcy Law
Hundreds
Of Clients Helped
Free
Consultations, Always
4 Counties
Plymouth · Bristol · Norfolk · Barnstable
The Fresh Start You Deserve

A Bankruptcy Attorney Who Works With You Personally

In an economy where millions of Americans have lost their jobs or face foreclosure, mounting debt can feel impossible to overcome. It's important to know that you have rights and options as a consumer. The Law Office of Matthew C. Swanson is dedicated to helping individuals and business owners take control of their financial future and achieve a fresh start through bankruptcy.

Not all attorneys are created equal, nor are bankruptcy proceedings — there are distinct differences between the various chapters of bankruptcy, and Attorney Swanson will carefully explain the benefits and detriments of each. When you hire the Law Office of Matthew C. Swanson, you will not be working with a large, impersonal firm that treats you like another customer. He works with clients personally, keeping them informed throughout the entire process.

What We Handle

  • Stop foreclosures, lawsuits, repossessions, and wage garnishments
  • Eliminate credit card debt and medical bills
  • Discharge junior mortgages in many cases
  • Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 personal bankruptcy
  • Small business bankruptcy and reorganization
Attorney Matthew C. Swanson
Your Attorney

Matthew C. Swanson, Esq.

"I will personally work with you to find the right solution that works best for you. You will be kept informed throughout the entire process."

Attorney Swanson is from Dartmouth, Massachusetts and now resides in Raynham with his wife and two children. Since 2004, he has focused his practice entirely on consumer and small business bankruptcy, serving clients throughout Plymouth, Bristol, Norfolk, and Barnstable Counties.

  • Education: B.A., Environmental Studies & Political Science, Providence College (2000)
  • Law School: J.D., Suffolk University Law School (2003)
  • Bar Admissions: Massachusetts Bar (2004); U.S. District Court, District of Massachusetts (2005)
  • Memberships: Massachusetts Bar Association
  • National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys
  • American Bankruptcy Institute · Plymouth County Bar Association
  • BNI · Metro South Chamber of Commerce · Hearts and Minds of Ghana
Our Practice Areas

Bankruptcy & Debt Relief Services

Every case is different. Attorney Swanson will walk you through the benefits and detriments of each option so you can make an informed decision.

Chapter 7

The most common type of bankruptcy — often called a "fresh start" bankruptcy. It's used to discharge unsecured, dischargeable debts with no repayment to creditors, while in most cases letting you keep your home, car, and other properly protected assets.

Chapter 13

A reorganization plan for debtors with steady income, facing foreclosure, or with assets to protect. Restructures and repays a portion of your debt over a 3–5 year plan, and can cure past-due mortgage or auto payments.

Business Bankruptcy

For small business owners, it's often difficult to separate business liabilities from personal finances. We determine whether the business, the individual, or both should file, and guide you through Chapter 7 or Chapter 11.

Stop Foreclosure

Filing bankruptcy triggers an automatic stay that halts foreclosure. Chapter 13 can stop foreclosure and give you up to 60 months to cure past-due mortgage payments. We'll also discuss the Massachusetts Homestead exemption.

Debt Relief

Attorney Swanson has personally helped hundreds of clients eliminate credit card debt, medical bills, and junior mortgages, working closely with one attorney to find a tailor-made solution for your situation.

Bankruptcy Alternatives

Bankruptcy isn't right for everyone. We'll give you an open, honest assessment of your situation and, if appropriate, explore alternatives like debt settlement, loan modification, or debt consolidation.

Not Sure Bankruptcy Is Right For You?

Alternatives Worth Considering

Often, attorneys recommend filing without learning the specifics of your unique situation. We'll help you explore these options first.

Debt Settlement

Negotiating with creditors to accept a portion of what's owed instead of risking a bankruptcy. Requires funds up front and may carry tax consequences.

Loan Modification

If mortgage delinquency is your only issue, a loan modification may let you stay in your home under more reasonable interest, term, or principal.

Short Sale / Deed in Lieu

Surrender the home to your lender to eliminate liability for the remaining mortgage balance, avoiding a formal foreclosure.

Debt Consolidation

Borrowing at a reduced rate to repay several higher-interest lenders with one monthly payment — ideally paying off debt faster.

Getting Started

Resources for Your Free Consultation

Documents to Bring

A general list of documents needed in order to file:

  • Driver's license
  • Social Security card
  • Current statements from your creditors
  • Paystubs for the last six months
  • If self-employed: 12-month profit and loss
  • Any documents pertaining to foreclosure or legal action
  • Tax returns for the last 3 years
  • Homeowner's and car insurance declarations pages
  • Bank statements for the past 12 months
  • Current mortgage and automobile statements
  • Title to any automobile owned outright
  • Notices from any federal, state, or local tax collection agencies

Bankruptcy Courses

Two courses are required for every bankruptcy: a credit counseling course completed prior to filing, and a financial management course completed after the case is filed. Ask us about enrolling — Attorney Swanson's partner code is MA0751.

Directions to Court

Chapter 7 Creditors Meeting
Hastings Keith Federal Building, 2nd Floor
53 North Sixth Street, Room 206, New Bedford, MA 02740
Metered parking available on adjacent streets.
Chapter 13 Creditors Meeting
J.W. McCormack Post Office & Court House, 3rd Floor
5 Post Office Square, Room 325, Boston, MA 02109
Parking suggested at the Garage at Post Office Square.
From the Blog

Insights on Bankruptcy & Debt Relief

January 12, 2021

What Do I Do When My Forbearance Ends?

The COVID pandemic caused a substantial financial impact on many families. As a result, many people entered into forbearance agreements with their lenders — here's what to consider once that period ends.

May 22, 2019

How Bankruptcy Helps with Foreclosure

When your home is in foreclosure, it can feel like a lost cause. The good news: bankruptcy's automatic stay provides real relief and options to stay in your home.

April 10, 2019

Why You Should Select a Boutique Bankruptcy Law Firm

If you're seeking the service and experience that comes with concentrated expertise in one area of law, here's why a boutique bankruptcy practice makes the difference.

March 12, 2019

Medical Bills Can Pile Up Fast — But There Is a Lifeline Out

Bankruptcy is often the only refuge for a growing number of people struggling with overwhelming medical debt, including those with medical insurance.

October 5, 2018

Can I Buy a Home After Bankruptcy?

Many people shy away from bankruptcy for fear they'll never qualify for a mortgage again. Credit card companies would have you believe that's true — it isn't the whole story.

Client Reviews

What Clients Are Saying

★★★★★

"We went to Attorney Matthew Swanson during a very difficult and challenging time in our lives. Matt is personable, honest and knows the law..."

William Coleman
Google Review
★★★★★

"Highly recommend! Matthew made a stressful process so much easier by explaining everything clearly and always being available to answer my questions. He was..."

Ally Balara
Google Review
★★★★★

"If you need assistance with your bankruptcy case, please come talk to Attorney Swanson! He really cares and listens. He will take all the time..."

Emily Pruyn
Google Review
Get In Touch

Consultations Are Always Free

Conveniently located minutes off Route 24 on the Easton line, across from Stonehill College (Williamsburg Square). If the Brockton office is inconvenient for you, we can meet at other locations.

Main Office Matthew C. Swanson, PC
1342 Belmont Street, Suite 204
(Williamsburg Square)
Brockton, MA 02301
Phone 508-857-5697
Fax 508-857-5739
Hours Weekend and evening appointments available
Parking Free onsite parking
Call Now for a Free Consultation

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