Trusted legal guidance for lasting financial stability.
Written By: Attorney Robert Stiberman | Updated 9/2/2025
Why Working With a Bankruptcy Lawyer Matters
When debt spirals out of control, the pressure can feel unbearable. Harassing phone calls, threats of foreclosure, or mounting credit card balances may leave you unsure where to turn. A skilled bankruptcy attorney gives you the knowledge and protection you need to move forward.
At Stiberman Law, we’ve been serving individuals and families across Florida—including Clearwater—for over a decade. Our mission is to provide clear advice, compassionate support, and effective debt relief solutions.
Understanding the Bankruptcy Process in Clearwater
Bankruptcy cases in Clearwater are handled by the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida. While the rules are federal, the local process can be intimidating without legal guidance.
Here’s what working with us typically looks like:
- Free consultation: We evaluate your financial situation to determine if bankruptcy is the right option.
- Choosing a chapter: We help you decide whether Chapter 7, 13, or 11 best suits your needs.
- Filing your petition: Our team prepares and files all documents with the court.
- Automatic stay: Collection calls, foreclosures, and garnishments stop once the case is filed.
- Trustee meeting: You attend a brief hearing with one of our attorneys by your side.
- Resolution: Depending on your chapter, debts may be discharged or managed under a repayment plan.
Why Clearwater Residents Trust Stiberman Law
Filing for bankruptcy isn’t just about paperwork—it’s about protecting what matters most. Clients turn to us because we:
- Explain every option in plain language.
- Handle deadlines and court requirements.
- Offer bilingual support in English and Spanish.
- Work to help you keep your home, car, and other essentials.
Real Results for Clearwater Clients
One client faced over $55,000 in medical and credit card debt. With our guidance, she filed Chapter 7 bankruptcy and discharged nearly all of it in less than six months. This gave her the chance to reset her finances and start rebuilding her credit.
Bankruptcy Solutions We Offer
Stiberman Law provides comprehensive debt relief strategies for individuals, families, and businesses in Clearwater:
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy – Offers fast relief by eliminating unsecured debts such as credit cards and medical bills. Florida’s exemption laws often allow clients to keep their property.
Chapter 13 Bankruptcy – A structured repayment plan lasting three to five years that protects assets like your home or car. After completing the plan, remaining eligible debt may be discharged.
Chapter 11 Bankruptcy – Commonly used by businesses but also available to individuals with significant financial obligations. It restructures debts while allowing operations or daily life to continue.
We also assist with foreclosure defense, stopping wage garnishments, and reviewing whether non-bankruptcy alternatives might better suit your circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions – Clearwater Bankruptcy
What debts can be eliminated through bankruptcy?
Most unsecured debts, such as medical bills, credit card balances, and personal loans, can be discharged. However, obligations like child support, alimony, and most student loans remain.
Will bankruptcy stop foreclosure or garnishments?
Yes. Filing triggers an automatic stay, which immediately halts foreclosure proceedings, wage garnishments, and creditor lawsuits.
How long does bankruptcy take?
Chapter 7 cases often conclude within four to six months, while Chapter 13 repayment plans last three to five years.
Is there a minimum amount of debt required to file?
No. Eligibility is based on whether your debts are unmanageable given your income and financial situation, not on a set dollar figure.
Start Your Path to Relief in Clearwater
Financial struggles don’t have to define your life. At Stiberman Law, we help Clearwater residents find relief, protect assets, and build toward a stronger financial future.
Contact Stiberman Law today or complete our online form to schedule your free consultation and begin your journey to financial freedom.
