Protect Your Property

We Can Negotiate On Your Behalf

Chicago Repossession Attorney

Worried Creditors Will Take Your Property? Take Action Today!

Are you worried about your lender repossessing your vehicle because you missed a payment? If you are in financial trouble and need answers right away, you can get help by contacting a lawyer from Smith Ortiz, P.C. Ever since our law firm was founded years ago, our genuine goal has been to help people going through financial difficulties of all kinds. In fact, we have decidedly dedicated 100% of our practice to bankruptcy and foreclosure defense.

With more than 25 years of combined legal experience and strong backgrounds in taxes and finance, our firm is well qualified to help you out of the worst of fiscal worries.


The peace of mind you deserve is just a phone call away. Dial (312) 945-7451 today.


Understanding Illinois Repossession Laws

Taking out a loan for a car or other property permits the use of that property as collateral. This means the creditor can repossess the property if you fail to make payments. Even if you miss only one payment, Illinois repossession law allows the creditor to take the property without warning, as long as taking the property does not disturb the peace.

However, consumers do still have recourse. The act of repossession is a means for lenders to reclaim property without having to go through court proceedings. By sidestepping the law in this way, it is easy for "repo men" to actually commit violations, either knowingly or inadvertently.

For example, a repossession associate cannot enter your garage to take back your car. Such an act would technically be breaking and entering, therefore committing a breach of peace.

Additionally, when repossession does occur legally, you have the right to be informed of the impending sale. This allows you time to take any necessary actions to attempt getting your vehicle back.

With our repossession attorneys at your side, you can start fighting for your property through:

  • Redemption: Paying off all or most of the car's original value
  • Auction: Bidding on your own repossessed vehicle in an open auction
  • Reinstatement: If you have paid more than 30% of the existing loan, you can reinstate it and continue payments
  • Bankruptcy: Filing for the right kind of bankruptcy may cease all creditor actions

Defending Your Rights

The more you understand the facts regarding your rights concerning repossession, the better control you will have over your property. At Smith Ortiz, P.C., we have made it our personal mission to help people out of financial pitfalls and prepare them for the path ahead. Our services also include the possibility of negotiating with your lender and getting them to restructure your loan so that you can make those payments without the fear of repossession. No matter the difficulties of your circumstances, our firm wants to do all we can to help you through it.


Schedule a free consultation with our compassionate team today.


Our Past Clients Share Their Stories

  • Smith Ortiz Was a Very Great Divorce Lawyer

    “He is so understanding with financial payments and very understanding with winning the case.”

    - F.S.

  • Excellent Service and Very Professional

    “Helped me with my chapter 7 bankruptcy all the way and explained everything detail by detail step by step.”

    - A.A.

  • Patient and Professional

    “I would like to thank you for all the effort, time, patience, professionalism, and effectiveness in helping me resolve this very important and uncomfortable situation in my life.”

    - M.M.

  • If you're looking for a great bankruptcy attorney, this is your firm.

    “They got the job done - fast, friendly, helpful & at a very good rate.”

    - C.D.

  • You all are the best lawyers in Illinois.

    “Thank you for the wonderful work that your company has done for me.”

    - D.W.