Bankruptcy Attorney in DeSoto County, FL
Quick Summary
The Challenge: Overwhelming debt and the threat of creditor actions, including wage garnishment or foreclosure, in DeSoto County, FL.
Chapter 7 (Liquidation): Provides the quickest path to relief (4–6 months) by discharging most unsecured debts (like credit cards and medical bills), with Florida exemptions helping clients retain essential property.
Chapter 13 (Repayment Plan): Designed for individuals with steady income, it offers a structured 3–5 year repayment plan, which is ideal for clients who need to protect valuable property (like a home or car) and catch up on missed payments.
The Process: Filing immediately triggers the automatic stay, a critical protection that instantly halts most collection actions, including foreclosures, lawsuits, and wage garnishments.
Bottom Line: Stiberman Law offers over a decade of experience and bilingual support (English and Spanish) to DeSoto County residents, simplifying the bankruptcy process (Chapter 7, 13, or 11) to help them eliminate debt, protect assets, and achieve a financial fresh start.
Trusted support for lasting financial recovery.
Written By: Attorney Robert Stiberman | Updated 10/3/2025
Why Working with a Bankruptcy Attorney in DeSoto County Matters
When mounting debt begins to feel unmanageable, it’s easy to feel stuck. A knowledgeable bankruptcy attorney provides the legal guidance and reassurance you need to move forward confidently.
At Stiberman Law, we’ve been helping Florida residents, including those in DeSoto County, overcome debt and regain control of their finances for more than a decade. Our goal is to provide clear explanations, effective strategies, and unwavering support from start to finish.
The Bankruptcy Process in DeSoto County
Bankruptcy cases in DeSoto County are handled under federal law, but local procedures and requirements make it essential to have an experienced attorney on your side. We simplify every step, ensuring your case is handled efficiently and correctly.
The process begins with a free consultation, where we review your income, debt, and assets to determine whether bankruptcy is the right option. Once you decide to proceed, our firm helps you select the appropriate chapter—whether it’s Chapter 7 for fast debt elimination, Chapter 13 for structured repayment, or Chapter 11 for complex financial reorganizations.
After filing, an automatic stay takes effect immediately. This halts most creditor actions, including lawsuits, foreclosures, and wage garnishments. Our team prepares all necessary filings, represents you at the trustee meeting, and works toward a discharge or repayment plan depending on your case type.
Why Clients Choose Stiberman Law
Filing for bankruptcy isn’t just a financial decision—it’s a step toward rebuilding your life. Clients turn to us because we:
- Provide personal attention and clear communication
- Handle all court filings and deadlines with precision
- Offer bilingual representation in English and Spanish
- Focus on protecting as much of your property as possible
Client Case Study
One client struggling with overwhelming credit card and medical debt turned to our team for help. After filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, they successfully discharged over $40,000 in unsecured debt within six months, allowing them to reset their financial future with confidence.
STEP 1
Free Consultation
We begin with a free consultation to review your debts, assets, and financial situation. This helps determine whether bankruptcy is the right solution for you.
STEP 2
Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for Chapter 7 (debt discharge through liquidation), Chapter 13 (structured repayment plan), or Chapter 11 (reorganization, often used by businesses or individuals with significant debt). We’ll explain the differences and recommend the best option for your needs.
STEP 3
Our team helps you gather financial documents and prepares all the required forms. We file your case electronically with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida, Tampa Division, which covers Winter Haven.
STEP 4
Once your case is filed, an automatic stay immediately stops most collection actions, lawsuits, and wage garnishments.
STEP 5
You’ll attend a brief meeting with a court-appointed trustee. An attorney from Stiberman Law will be by your side to make sure you’re prepared and supported.
STEP 6
If you file Chapter 7, eligible debts are discharged in as little as four to six months. If you file Chapter 13, you’ll enter into a three- to five-year repayment plan before remaining eligible debts are wiped out. If you file Chapter 11 as a business, you’ll propose a reorganization plan that restructures obligations while allowing you to remain operational.
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At Stiberman Law, Our Goal Is To Help You Complete The Process Smoothly, Protect Your Property When Possible, And Achieve The Financial Relief You Need For A Fresh Start.
Understanding Bankruptcy Options
Chapter 7 – Known as “liquidation bankruptcy,” this option allows for the discharge of most unsecured debts while often protecting essential assets under Florida’s exemption laws.
Chapter 13 – This “wage earner’s plan” helps individuals repay debts over three to five years, keeping homes, cars, and other key property.
Chapter 11 – Designed for businesses or individuals with complex financial circumstances, Chapter 11 enables debt restructuring while operations continue.
Our Bankruptcy and Debt Relief Services in DeSoto County
We assist individuals, families, and small businesses with a range of financial relief services, including:
Chapter 7
Chapter 7 bankruptcy for fast elimination of unsecured debt
Chapter 13
Chapter 13 bankruptcy for manageable repayment plans that protect property
Chapter 11
Chapter 11 bankruptcy for business owners or individuals with substantial obligations
Foreclosure
When bankruptcy isn’t the right fit, we can also help explore alternatives such as debt consolidation or negotiated settlements.
– Your experienced bankruptcy attorney
Lern More About Our Founding Attorney
Here’s a 5-star review from our client:
Great service all of the employees were great from Angel, Jesse, and to Mr Stiberman thank you for the amazing assistance.
Tevin Campbell
Robert Stiberman
Frequently Asked Questions About Bankruptcy in DeSoto County
What kinds of debts can be discharged in bankruptcy?
Will bankruptcy stop creditor harassment and wage garnishment?
How long does bankruptcy take to complete?
Do I need to owe a certain amount of debt to qualify?
Take the First Step Toward Relief in DeSoto County
If you’re ready to take control of your finances, Stiberman Law can help you navigate the bankruptcy process with experience and care. We’ll guide you through every stage, from consultation to final discharge.
Contact Stiberman Law today to schedule your free consultation and start building a stronger financial future.