Guiding you toward a stronger financial future.
Written by Attorney Robert Stiberman | Updated 9/3/2025
How a Bankruptcy Lawyer in Bradenton Can Help
Living with overwhelming debt can make daily life stressful and uncertain. A skilled bankruptcy attorney ensures you understand your legal options, helps you select the right type of bankruptcy, and stands by you throughout the process. At Stiberman Law, we’ve spent more than a decade helping individuals and families across Florida, including Bradenton, achieve financial relief and regain peace of mind.
The Bankruptcy Process in Bradenton
Bankruptcy cases in Bradenton are handled by the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida. While the process follows federal rules, local procedures can be confusing without experienced guidance. Our team makes the process easier by walking you through every step.
Free Consultation
We start with a no-cost review of your income, assets, and debts to determine whether bankruptcy is a good fit for your circumstances.
Selecting a Bankruptcy Chapter
After assessing your financial goals, we recommend the best option:
- Chapter 7 bankruptcy: A quick discharge of unsecured debts like credit cards and medical bills.
- Chapter 13 bankruptcy: A repayment plan over three to five years that protects important assets.
- Chapter 11 bankruptcy: A reorganization plan, typically for businesses or individuals with substantial debt.
Filing the Petition
Our office gathers the required financial documents, prepares your forms, and files them electronically with the court.
Automatic Stay Protection
The moment your case is filed, creditor calls, foreclosure proceedings, lawsuits, and wage garnishments are paused by federal law.
Trustee Meeting
You will attend a short hearing with a trustee. One of our attorneys will be there to guide you through it and ensure you’re prepared.
Resolution
Depending on the type of bankruptcy, your debts may be discharged within months or you may follow a structured repayment plan before remaining debts are eliminated.
Why Bradenton Residents Turn to Stiberman Law
Our firm provides more than just paperwork support. We work to safeguard your property, defend your income, and give you a clear path forward. Clients choose us because we:
- Explain the process in plain language
- Manage court filings and deadlines on your behalf
- Offer representation in both English and Spanish
- Have extensive experience in Florida bankruptcy law
Client Success Story
A homeowner was weeks away from losing her property to foreclosure after falling behind on mortgage payments. By filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, we stopped the foreclosure immediately. Through the court’s Mortgage Modification Mediation Program, we secured a repayment plan that allowed her to keep her home and restructure her debt.
Services We Provide in Bradenton
Stiberman Law offers a wide range of debt relief solutions tailored to different financial situations, including:
- Chapter 7 bankruptcy for eliminating unsecured debts
- Chapter 13 bankruptcy for protecting property while repaying debt over time
- Chapter 11 bankruptcy for restructuring large personal or business debts
- Foreclosure defense to help homeowners stay in their properties
- Wage garnishment protection to keep creditors from taking money directly from your paycheck
- Debt consolidation options when appropriate
Understanding the Bankruptcy Chapters
Chapter 7
Often called liquidation bankruptcy, Chapter 7 discharges most unsecured debts. Florida’s exemption laws typically allow you to keep essentials like your home, car, and personal property.
Chapter 13
This repayment plan lets you catch up on overdue debts while protecting valuable assets. Payments last three to five years, after which remaining eligible debt is discharged.
Chapter 11
Frequently used by businesses, Chapter 11 can also help individuals with significant obligations. It allows debts to be reorganized while continuing operations or personal financial management.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bankruptcy in Bradenton
What debts can bankruptcy eliminate?
Most unsecured debts, such as credit cards, medical bills, and personal loans, can be discharged. However, obligations like child support, alimony, and most student loans cannot be erased.
Can bankruptcy stop foreclosure or wage garnishment?
Yes. Filing a case triggers an automatic stay, which immediately halts creditor collection efforts, including foreclosure proceedings and wage garnishments.
Is there a minimum debt requirement to file for bankruptcy?
No. There is no set minimum. The decision depends on whether your current debt level is unmanageable given your income and financial situation.
How long does bankruptcy take?
Chapter 7 cases usually conclude in four to six months, while Chapter 13 cases last three to five years under a court-approved repayment plan.
Start Moving Toward Financial Relief in Bradenton
Debt does not have to control your life. At Stiberman Law, we help Bradenton residents find lasting financial solutions through skilled legal guidance and dedicated representation. From your first consultation to the final resolution, we are here to protect your rights and help you take back control of your finances.
Contact Stiberman Law today to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward a stronger financial future.
