Written By: Attorney Robert Stiberman
Last Updated March 27, 2023
Fort Lauderdale Bankruptcy Attorney – Your Path to Financial Freedom
Fort Lauderdale FL
Looking for a Fort Lauderdale bankruptcy attorney can be a challenging task. At Stiberman Law, we understand the financial and emotional stress that our clients are going through, and we are here to help. Our team of experienced bankruptcy attorneys is committed to providing you with the best possible representation and guidance throughout the entire bankruptcy process.
Filing for bankruptcy should be a path to financial freedom, not a burden. Our attorneys have helped clients across Fort Lauderdale and surrounding areas to get a fresh financial start. Whether you need assistance with Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy, creditor harassment, or wage garnishments, we are here to help. Please contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward your financial freedom.
- Determine which type of bankruptcy to file: There are several types, each with eligibility requirements and benefits. A bankruptcy attorney can help you determine which type of bankruptcy suits your situation.
- Gather and submit required documentation: Filing for bankruptcy requires submitting a significant amount of documentation, including financial records, tax returns, and other information. An attorney can help you compile this information and ensure it is accurate and complete.
- File your bankruptcy petition: Once your documentation is complete, your attorney can help you file your bankruptcy petition with the court. This officially initiates the bankruptcy process.
- Attend a meeting of creditors: Within a few weeks of filing your petition, you will be required to attend a meeting of creditors. Your attorney will accompany you to this meeting to allow creditors to ask you questions about your financial situation.
- Complete a debtor education course: To receive a bankruptcy discharge, you must complete a debtor education course. Your attorney can help you find an approved course provider and ensure you receive a completion certificate.
- Attend a confirmation hearing: If you are filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you must attend a confirmation hearing. This hearing determines whether your proposed repayment plan is feasible and fair.
- Receive your bankruptcy discharge: If everything goes smoothly, you will receive a bankruptcy discharge, eliminating your eligible debts and providing a fresh start.
An experienced bankruptcy attorney can help guide you through each step of the process, ensuring that you meet all requirements and helping you make the most of the benefits of bankruptcy.
Led by experienced bankruptcy attorney Robert Stiberman, our firm has a deep understanding of bankruptcy law and a proven track record of helping individuals and businesses in Fort Lauderdale and the surrounding areas regain control of their finances.
Mr. Stiberman is well-versed in both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy cases. He has extensive experience in front of the Fort Lauderdale Division of the bankruptcy court, including appearances before judges Peter D. Russin and Scott M. Grossman and Robin R. Weiner, the Chapter 13 Trustee for Broward County. With his extensive experience and familiarity with the local bankruptcy court, he is well-equipped to help you navigate the complex bankruptcy process in Fort Lauderdale.
Choose Stiberman Law for the expertise and personalized support you deserve during this trying time. Start your path to financial freedom today.
Working with Robert Stiberman
When you work with Robert Stiberman and Stiberman Law, you can expect a personalized and thorough approach. Our process includes the following:
- A free consultation at our Fort Lauderdale office (located at 110 E Broward Blvd, Suite 1700, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301) to assess your case and determine if bankruptcy is the right option for you.
- Transparent and affordable fees, along with flexible payment plans that consider your financial situation.
- Clear and consistent communication, with our team always available to answer your questions and keep you updated throughout the process.
- Prompt provision of your case number and post-filing instructions, typically within minutes of filing.
- Bilingual services in English and Spanish, with a dedicated team working towards your best possible outcome.
What should you consider when choosing a Fort Lauderdale Bankruptcy Attorney?
There are several factors to consider when considering a Fort Lauderdale bankruptcy attorney. The following are some things to consider when choosing the right bankruptcy attorney for you:
- Experience and Expertise: Choose a bankruptcy attorney knowledgeable and experienced in handling bankruptcy cases. Look for an attorney with a successful track record in filing bankruptcy cases.
- Local Rules and Trustee Requirements: Bankruptcy cases in Fort Lauderdale are heard in the Fort Lauderdale Division of the bankruptcy court and must comply with the local rules and procedures of the Southern District of Florida. Choose an attorney who is familiar with the court’s requirements and procedures.
- Credentials: Make sure the attorney you choose is licensed to practice in Florida and admitted to the Southern District of Florida Bankruptcy Court.
- Reviews, Ratings, and Recognitions: Read reviews and ratings from past clients and check if the attorney has any accreditations from third-party sites like Avvo.
- Personality and Communication Skills: Working with an attorney you feel comfortable with and who communicates well with you is essential. If English is not your first language, look for an attorney who speaks your language or has staff who do.
- Costs: Fees for bankruptcy filings can vary, so look for an attorney who offers affordable rates and payment plans. If you’re filing for Chapter 7 in Fort Lauderdale, expect to pay around $1,500.
Who Will Administer Your Bankruptcy Case in Fort Lauderdale?
If you file for bankruptcy in Fort Lauderdale, a trustee will be appointed to administer your case. In Chapter 13 cases, Robin Weiner is the Standing Chapter 13 Trustee in the Fort Lauderdale Division. For Chapter 7 cases, trustees are randomly assigned from a pool of trustees appointed and supervised by the United States Trustee. At Stiberman Law, we have experience working with both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 trustees in Fort Lauderdale and can provide guidance and representation throughout the process.
What should I do if I can’t afford a bankruptcy lawyer?
If you are unable to afford a bankruptcy lawyer, there are a few options you can explore. First, you can contact Fort Lauderdale legal aid organizations offering free advice and assistance, such as Broward Legal Aid. These organizations have varying eligibility requirements, so you must check if you meet their criteria before applying.
Another option is to look for pro bono (free) legal services offered by law firms or individual attorneys. These services are usually available for those who cannot afford legal representation and have a limited income.
Additionally, some bankruptcy courts have pro se clinics that offer free legal advice to individuals filing for bankruptcy without an attorney. You can contact the Fort Lauderdale bankruptcy court to see if they provide this service.
Lastly, you can consider filing for bankruptcy on your own. However, remember that bankruptcy laws and procedures can be complicated, and filing on your own can be risky. It’s recommended to seek legal advice, even if you cannot afford to hire an attorney.
Resources to find an attorney in or near Fort Lauderdale, FL
If you’re looking for a bankruptcy attorney in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, there are several ways you can find one. Here are a few options:
- Legal directories: Websites such as Avvo and FindLaw have directories of bankruptcy attorneys in Fort Lauderdale, which you can search based on location, practice area, and other criteria.
- Referrals from friends and family: Ask for referrals from friends, family members, or coworkers who have used a bankruptcy attorney. Personal referrals can be a great way to find a trustworthy attorney.
- Bankruptcy organizations: National organizations, such as the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys (NACBA), have directories of bankruptcy attorneys that you can search based on location.
- Local bar associations: The Broward County Bar Association provides referrals to local attorneys, including bankruptcy attorneys.
Why do you need a bankruptcy attorney?
While individuals are legally allowed to file for bankruptcy without an attorney (pro se), the complexities of the bankruptcy code and the potential consequences make it essential to work with an experienced attorney. A bankruptcy attorney can help you avoid costly mistakes and achieve the best outcome possible.
Hiring a bankruptcy attorney can provide numerous benefits, saving you time and money and ensuring that you receive the best possible outcome in your case. Some of the benefits of hiring a bankruptcy attorney include the following:
- Expert knowledge of bankruptcy laws: Bankruptcy law is complex and constantly changing. A bankruptcy attorney has the expertise to help you navigate these laws and ensure your case is filed correctly.
- Guidance on which type of bankruptcy to file: There are several types, each with eligibility requirements and benefits. A bankruptcy attorney can help you determine which type of bankruptcy is right for your financial situation.
- Assistance with paperwork and documentation: Filing for bankruptcy requires submitting significant paperwork and documentation. A bankruptcy attorney can help you gather and complete these materials, ensuring they are accurate.
- Representation in court: If your case goes to court, an attorney can represent you and protect your rights. Your attorney can also negotiate with your creditors and the court to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
- Protection from creditor harassment: Once you file for bankruptcy, creditors can no longer contact you or pursue collection actions. Your attorney can handle all communication with your creditors, giving you peace of mind and freedom from harassment.
- Maximizing exemptions: Bankruptcy law allows you to keep certain assets, such as your home or car, during bankruptcy. An attorney can help you maximize these exemptions, ensuring you retain as much of your property as possible.
By working with an experienced bankruptcy attorney, you can feel confident that you are making informed decisions about your financial future and taking the necessary steps to move forward.
Business Bankruptcy in Fort Lauderdale
Business bankruptcy can be complicated, and it’s crucial to work with an experienced bankruptcy attorney who understands the unique challenges of business bankruptcies. If your Fort Lauderdale business faces overwhelming debt or commercial litigation, a skilled bankruptcy attorney can explore your options and help you navigate the complex bankruptcy laws.
The business bankruptcy process typically involves either Chapter 7 or Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Chapter 7 bankruptcy involves liquidating the business’s assets to pay off its debts, while Chapter 11 bankruptcy involves reorganizing the business’s debts and operations to allow the company to continue operating.
In addition to helping you determine which bankruptcy option is right for your business, a bankruptcy attorney can help you navigate issues such as tax liabilities, contracts, leases, and employee obligations. With a skilled attorney’s guidance, you can protect your business, assets, and employees while working towards a brighter financial future.
Stiberman Law: A Proven Advocate in Fort Lauderdale Bankruptcy Cases
At Stiberman Law, we understand the challenges of getting out of debt and offer debt relief solutions and practical strategies to help you find financial freedom. Our firm has served clients in Fort Lauderdale, FL, for over 13 years, providing a wide range of legal services on bankruptcy and debt relief.
Our team of bankruptcy attorneys has extensive experience in all areas of bankruptcy law, including Chapter 7, Chapter 13, and business bankruptcies. We work closely with our clients to understand their financial situation and develop customized plans to help them achieve their goals.
In addition to our legal expertise, we pride ourselves on our commitment to exceptional client service. We understand that filing for bankruptcy can be sensitive, and we approach each case with compassion and understanding. We can answer your questions and guide the bankruptcy process.
If you are considering filing for bankruptcy, don’t go it alone. Contact Stiberman Law today to schedule a complimentary consultation with one of our experienced bankruptcy attorneys. Our team is here to help, so call (954) 932-7804 to get started.
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