Student Loan Bankruptcy

Drowning in student loan payments? Bankruptcy can help — even if it doesn’t erase the debt entirely.
At the Law Office of H. Brooks Cotten, we help individuals across Newnan and surrounding counties use Chapter 13 bankruptcy to regain control of overwhelming student loan debt through structured repayment plans.

Can You Discharge Student Loans in Bankruptcy?

In most cases, student loans are not discharged through bankruptcy unless you meet very strict hardship standards (which are rare and difficult to prove in court).
However, that doesn’t mean bankruptcy can’t help.

How Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Helps with Student Loan Debt

If you qualify for Chapter 13, you can include your student loan payments in your repayment plan, which allows you to:

• Make reduced payments based on your income
• Pause collections and stop lawsuits or wage garnishment
• Avoid falling further behind while focusing on other essential debts
• Stay in compliance even if you’re currently in default

At the end of the repayment plan (typically 3 to 5 years), any remaining student loan debt that wasn’t paid may still be owed — but you’ll have had several years of protection and manageable payments in the meantime.

Is This Right for You?

Chapter 13 is ideal for people who:

• Have federal or private student loans they can’t afford
• Are at risk of default or garnishment
• Want to protect assets like a home or vehicle
• Have other debts (credit cards, medical bills, etc.) that need relief as well

We can help you determine if this option is the right fit based on your income, debt, and long-term goals.

Why Work With H. Brooks Cotten?

• ✅ Over 30 years of bankruptcy experience
• ✅ Deep knowledge of student loan laws and protections
• ✅ Licensed in Georgia, Alabama, and California
• ✅ Serving clients throughout Newnan, Coweta County, and nearby counties including:
  • Fayette
  • Carroll
  • Troup
  • Haralson
  • Heard
  • Meriwether
  • Spalding