Houston Wage Garnishment Attorneys 

We Can Help You Defend Against Wage Garnishment 

Facing wage garnishment can feel overwhelming, especially when your hard-earned income is at risk of being taken from you. If you live in Houston, you should know that Texas law provides significant protections against wage garnishment, and there may be legal options available to help you stop or limit the impact of a garnishment order.

Legal Options to Stop Wage Garnishment in Houston 

• Negotiating with Creditors. Sometimes the first step in addressing a wage garnishment is directly negotiating with your creditors. Many creditors prefer to resolve debt repayment without needing garnishment, as negotiations can save on legal costs and time. Our attorneys can work with your creditors to pursue an arrangement, such as a repayment plan or debt settlement, to avoid garnishment. 
• Challenging the Wage Garnishment in Court. It’s important to verify the legality of the garnishment action, as errors by creditors or improper documentation can sometimes occur. For example, the creditor may lack proper authorization or may have violated procedures required under Texas law. An attorney can review the details of the garnishment and, if necessary, challenge its validity in court. 
• Filing a Motion for Exemption. Some forms of income and assets are exempt from garnishment under Texas law, such as funds from Social Security, retirement accounts, child support, and certain personal property. If your wages are being garnished improperly or funds are exempt, a motion can be filed to protect these assets. 
• Filing for Bankruptcy. Bankruptcy may invoke an automatic stay, halting wage garnishments temporarily and possibly longer, depending on the outcome of your case. Our attorneys can help you determine whether bankruptcy is the best option for your specific financial situation. 
• Limiting Garnishment to Federal & State Law Maximums. Even in allowable cases, such as child support or federal debts, wage garnishments are subject to strict limits under both Federal and Texas laws. Our lawyers can ensure these protections are enforced. 

Find relief from wage garnishment. Call (504) 608-5208 or reach out online to schedule your free consultation with our Houston wage garnishment defense attorneys.

Our Strategies for Negotiating with Creditors 

Creditors commonly pursue garnishment as a last resort because it involves added effort and costs, including obtaining a court order. This creates an opportunity for negotiation. 

• Why Negotiation Works. Attorneys possess experience and authority that can make creditors more willing to negotiate. Creditors often recognize that working through legal counsel signals a debtor who is serious about resolving the issue. 
• Outcomes We Pursue. Possible outcomes include reduced balances, installment payment arrangements, or lump-sum settlements for less than what is owed. These agreements can stop garnishments before they fully impact your financial stability. 
• The Complexity of Navigating Creditor Rules. Many people attempt to negotiate on their own, only to find themselves overwhelmed by technical jargon, insufficient creditor responses, or agreements that aren’t legally binding. An attorney ensures that these agreements are not only effective but legally enforceable. 

By reducing the need for legal battles, negotiating with creditors can help safeguard your wages without pushing you into further financial hardship. 

Preparing for a Wage Garnishment Hearing 

If your case proceeds to a hearing, preparation is critical. Wage garnishment hearings offer an opportunity to present your side, challenge creditor arguments, or file protective exemptions. 

1. Understanding Court Procedures. Wage garnishment hearings are typically held in civil court. Both you and your creditor present arguments, and the judge determines whether garnishment is justified or should be adjusted. 
2. Building Your Case. During preparation, our lawyers will gather documentation to support your case, such as records of exempt income, procedural errors by the creditor, or evidence of undue hardship caused by the garnishment. 
3. Ensuring Timeliness & Compliance. Missing court deadlines or hearings may result in default judgments favoring the creditor. Our attorneys ensure you’re informed of requirements and deadlines. 

Need wage garnishment help? Call (504) 608-5208 or contact us online to secure a free consultation and learn how we can assist you.

Types of Wage Garnishment We Can Fight Against 

Wage garnishment is relatively limited in Texas compared to other states. However, there are specific situations in which creditors and government entities can garnish your wages or other funds. Understanding the type of garnishment you’re facing allows for better legal guidance. 

1. Child Support & Spousal Maintenance. Texas law allows garnishment for court-ordered payments like child support and alimony. This category represents the most common type of legally permissible wage garnishment in Houston. Given its impact on income, it’s wise to seek legal assistance in managing or modifying these orders if they become unsustainable. 
2. Federal Student Loan Debt. Federal student loans are another limited area where wage garnishment is allowed without filing a lawsuit. If this has become a pressing issue, our attorneys can explore solutions, such as rehabilitation plans or consolidating loans. 
3. Unpaid Income Taxes. Both federal and Texas state tax authorities can garnish your wages to recover unpaid taxes. The IRS uses specific formulas to calculate how much can be garnished, accounting for your filing status and dependents. If you’re facing tax-related garnishment, our lawyers can help negotiate alternatives. 
4. Other Federal Government Debts. Other federal obligations, like unpaid penalties, can also lead to garnishment. Our team can determine if due process has been followed and whether the garnishment values are in compliance with limits. 

Why Choose Our Houston Wage Garnishment Lawyers for Wage Garnishment Defense? 

Wage garnishment affects your livelihood and ability to care for yourself and your family. We understand the financial and emotional toll it can take, and we’re here to help you make informed decisions through clear and compassionate counsel. 

Since 1994, our firm has practiced bankruptcy law with a singular focus on helping individuals and families overcome financial challenges. Our mission is simple: to help good people through tough times. From your first consultation to the final resolution of your case, we will provide guidance tailored to your needs and goals. 

What We Offer 

• A Proven Track Record. With decades of experience navigating bankruptcy law in Texas, we understand the nuances of wage garnishment defense specific to Houston. Whether resolving disputes, filing exemptions, or leveraging bankruptcy laws, we’ll explore every legal tool available to ease your financial burden. 
• Free Initial Consultations. Taking the first step toward legal assistance shouldn’t come with an upfront cost. Offering free consultations enables you to understand your options without financial pressure. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can my employer fire me because of wage garnishment? 

No, Texas and federal law prohibits employers from terminating or disciplining workers due to wage garnishment. Consulting an attorney can help safeguard against potential wrongful actions. 

What types of income are protected from garnishment in Houston? 

Exemptions include Social Security, veterans’ benefits, retirement funds, unemployment benefits, and certain child support allocations. Even some personal assets are exempt under Texas law. 

Can creditors garnish my bank account in Texas? 

Yes, once wages are deposited into a bank account, those funds lose their protection as “current wages.” If certain deposits are exempt, legal action may be required to release or protect them. 

How long does it take to resolve a garnishment case? 

Timelines depend on actions like negotiating settlements or handling court hearings. Many cases see resolutions within weeks, but more complex disputes may require months. 

Get the defense you need against wage garnishment. Call (504) 608-5208 or contact us online today to book your free consultation and regain control over your income.