Business Details
23 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Virginia Bankruptcy Lawyers & Foreclosure Defense Experts
The Merna Law Group has been a trusted legal resource for residents of eastern Virginia since 2003, specializing in bankruptcy law, family law, and financial crisis resolution. With offices in Virginia Beach, Richmond, and Newport News, our team of experienced attorneys has helped thousands of clients navigate complex financial challenges, including foreclosure, wage garnishment, and vehicle repossession. Our founder, John G. Merna, brings over two decades of expertise in bankruptcy law, having previously co-founded a prominent Los Angeles bankruptcy firm. We prioritize compassionate, client-centered service, combining legal expertise with personalized guidance to help individuals achieve debt relief and financial stability. Our attorneys are admitted to practice in Virginia and California, as well as multiple federal courts, ensuring comprehensive legal representation. Recognized with over 35 awards for excellence, we focus on demystifying the bankruptcy process and providing accessible solutions tailored to each client's unique circumstances.Our commitment to excellence is reflected in client testimonials highlighting our responsive staff, transparent communication, and successful case outcomes. Whether facing foreclosure, medical debt, or other financial hardships, we empower clients to make informed decisions through free consultations and educational resources. Our multidisciplinary approach extends to family law matters, including divorce and separation agreements, while maintaining strict adherence to ethical standards and professional accountability. With a proven track record in both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy cases, we remain dedicated to delivering trustworthy legal counsel that prioritizes client well-being and long-term financial health.
Services
Bankruptcy Representation
Foreclosure Defense
Wage Garnishment
Repossession Prevention
Family Law Cases
Details
- Year established: 2003
Highlights and features
- Over 20 years of bankruptcy law experience in Virginia and California courts
- Successfully represented thousands of clients in debt relief cases
- Free initial consultations for bankruptcy and foreclosure defense
- Admitted to practice in multiple federal bankruptcy courts
- Award-winning attorneys specializing in Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 cases
What people say
Helpful and friendly
Outstanding attorney
Debt free
Quick straightforward experience
Supportive administrative staff
Services
Bankruptcy Representation
Our bankruptcy attorneys provide comprehensive legal solutions for individuals facing financial hardship. We specialize in Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy filings that eliminate unsecured debt and stop foreclosure proceedings. With over 20 years of experience, we guide clients through the complete bankruptcy process while protecting assets like homes and vehicles. Our services include free initial consultations and personalized debt relief strategies tailored to Virginia residents.
Foreclosure Defense
We offer urgent legal intervention to prevent home foreclosure through bankruptcy filings and loan modification negotiations. Our team helps clients understand their rights under Virginia foreclosure laws and implements immediate protective measures. Services include court representation, mortgage payment restructuring, and exploring alternatives like deed-in-lieu agreements. We've successfully protected thousands of homes through timely legal action and customized financial solutions.
Wage Garnishment
Our firm provides emergency legal protection against wage garnishment by halting collection actions through bankruptcy filings. We help clients understand their rights under Virginia wage exemption laws and develop strategies to prevent 25% paycheck deductions. Services include creditor communication, debt negotiation, and creating payment plans that comply with legal requirements while maintaining financial stability.
Repossession Prevention
We offer urgent legal solutions to prevent vehicle repossession through bankruptcy protection and loan restructuring. Our attorneys help clients understand their rights when facing car loan defaults and implement immediate protective measures. Services include negotiating with lenders, modifying payment terms, and exploring Chapter 13 repayment plans that allow clients to retain their vehicles while resolving financial difficulties.
Family Law Cases
Our legal team handles family law matters including uncontested and contested divorces, separation agreements, and military divorce cases. We provide compassionate representation for complex financial aspects of divorce proceedings, particularly when combined with bankruptcy considerations. Services include asset division guidance, spousal support negotiations, and creating legally sound separation agreements tailored to Virginia law requirements.
People
John G. Merna
Senior Attorney / Founder
John G. Merna founded The Merna Law Group after co-founding a Los Angeles bankruptcy firm. He holds law and journalism degrees, with admissions to Virginia and California bars and multiple federal courts. A former Tidewater Bankruptcy Bar Association president, he specializes in consumer bankruptcy with over 20 years of experience.
Genene E. Gardner
Managing Attorney
Genene E. Gardner, a Virginia Beach native, specializes in family law and bankruptcy. She graduated from Regent University School of Law and Longwood University. As a member of the Virginia State Bar and Tidewater Bankruptcy Bar Association, she combines local knowledge with comprehensive legal expertise in her practice.
Lynn E. Meadows
Financial Accounts Manager
Lynn E. Meadows manages financial operations for The Merna Law Group. A William and Mary graduate, she provides financial guidance to clients while balancing administrative responsibilities. Her expertise ensures smooth financial processing for bankruptcy cases while maintaining personalized client support throughout the legal journey.
Questions
What types of bankruptcy do you handle?
We specialize in Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcies, helping clients eliminate unsecured debt and restructure payments while protecting assets like homes and vehicles.
How can you stop foreclosure?
Filing bankruptcy immediately stops foreclosure through automatic stay protections. We also negotiate loan modifications and explore alternatives like deed-in-lieu agreements to protect your home.
Can bankruptcy stop wage garnishment?
Yes, bankruptcy filing immediately halts wage garnishment by triggering automatic stay protections that prevent creditors from collecting debts through paycheck deductions.
Do you offer free consultations?
Yes, we provide free telephone consultations to discuss your financial situation and explore bankruptcy options tailored to your specific circumstances and Virginia law requirements.
What areas do you serve?
We serve clients throughout Virginia with offices in Virginia Beach, Richmond, and Newport News, covering Hampton Roads, the Peninsula, and Central Virginia jurisdictions.
How do I start the bankruptcy process?
Begin by scheduling a free consultation, then complete our intake forms detailing your financial situation to prepare for filing the appropriate bankruptcy chapter under Virginia law.
