Does filing for bankruptcy stop a lawsuit or garnishment?
Yes. When you file for bankrup5tcy the "automatic stay" prohibits creditors from collection efforts on
debts incurred pre-petition. This includes creditors that must be paid back after your bankruptcy
discharge. If you are being garnished by a creditor and you wish to file for bankruptcy, you should try
to have your petition filed before your next payday so the garnishment will be stopped. (Even if the
garnishment comes out of your check, the money will be returned). Similarly, if you are being sued for
a debt, a bankruptcy filing will "kill" the lawsuit because of the automatic stay. Important Note: In some
instances the automatic stay does not go into effect (e.g., if you filed multiple bankruptcy cases within
the past year, or if the debt at issue is for collection of child support).