The Double Save: How Strategic Advocacy Rescued Mr. L’s Home Twice

The Initial Crisis: Halting the Foreclosure

When Mr. L first came to DebtStoppers, he was facing the imminent sale of his home.

To stop the foreclosure, we filed a Chapter 13 bankruptcy, which immediately halted the sale and gave him court protection. His repayment plan was approved, allowing him to catch up on his mortgage arrears over time, without interest or penalties, while eliminating the remainder of his unsecured debts.

The Unexpected Setback: A New Threat to the Home

Everything was back on track. Then the unexpected happened.

After his case was filed, Mr. L’s home suffered significant damage and caused him renewed financial strain from the repairs. He fell behind again on his mortgage payments. The lender moved to proceed with another foreclosure sale. With less than two weeks before the scheduled sale, the situation was dire.

The Strategic Response: Rapid Legal Action

Rather than accept defeat, his DebtStoppers attorney acted quickly and strategically.

We worked directly with the Chapter 13 Trustee and successfully secured a discharge order in very little time to complete his case. This critical step allowed Mr. L to file a new case in good faith and regain court protection before the foreclosure sale could proceed.

The Result: Total Protection and a Path Forward

Today, Mr. L still owns his home.

He now has five years to repay his mortgage arrears with no interest or penalties, and because of the discharge from his prior case, all of his other unsecured debt has already been eliminated.

His home is protected.His debt burden is dramatically reduced.And he has a structured path forward.

Conclusion: Don’t Walk Away, Find a Solution

Life does not always go according to plan. When setbacks happen, don’t walk away. Find a solution.

By Patrick Semrad | Published March 19 2026

About the author

Patrick Semrad

Principal · Chicago, Illinois

Pat is the Managing Partner of The Semrad Law Firm, which does business as DebtStoppers, the largest consumer law firm in the United States. Patrick concentrates on providing access to affordable legal representation to bankruptcy clients regardless of their income. Since 2004, the firm has grown from four attorneys in Chicago to over 85 attorneys in five states with offices in Europe as well.

Practicing consumer bankruptcy law is a privilege for Pat. He knows of no other area of law that empowers an attorney to make such an immediate positive impact on his clients’ lives. It has been Pat’s mission to foster a team of attorneys and staff who are as passionate about helping individuals and families that are facing financial hardship. In this, Pat views his position as Managing Partner to be a support role dedicated to providing resources and professional development to every employee at DebtStoppers.

Pat periodically volunteers legal services through the North Suburban Legal Aid Clinic and the Together for Childhood Network in Lake County. He advises The Balance Project, a local not-for-profit founded by his wife, Agi, which supports mental health throughout the community.

Pat is a member of the Illinois Bar, Florida Bar, and General Bar for the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois. Mr. Semrad graduated magna cum laude from DePaul College of Law, where he was a member of the DePaul Law Review. He also received his Bachelor’s degree in Finance from DePaul.

Outside of his professional activities, Pat is an active member of the Windy City Chapter of YPO. He is also an active community member in Highland Park and regularly participates in local events and political campaigns. He enjoys woodworking, sailing, and playing terrible paddle. He is also a member for the Union League Club of Chicago.

Education: J.D., DePaul College of Law · B.S., Finance, DePaul University, 2001

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