Bankruptcy Attorney in Manatee County, FL
Quick Summary
The Challenge: Overwhelming debt and the threat of creditor actions, including wage garnishment or foreclosure, in Manatee 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 Manatee County residents, simplifying the bankruptcy process (Chapter 7, 13, or 11) to help them eliminate debt, protect assets, and achieve a financial fresh start.
Clear solutions to stop creditor harassment and resolve overwhelming debt.
Written By: Attorney Robert Stiberman | Updated 10/3/2025
Why Working with a Bankruptcy Lawyer Matters
Financial stress can quickly become overwhelming when bills keep piling up and creditors are relentless. A bankruptcy lawyer provides the knowledge and legal protection you need to make informed decisions, safeguard your property, and take advantage of federal bankruptcy protections.
At Stiberman Law, we’ve guided clients across Florida—including in Manatee County—through the bankruptcy process. Our goal is to relieve your financial burden while preserving as much of your property and income as possible.
Understanding the Bankruptcy Process in Manatee County
Although bankruptcy is handled in federal court, cases for Manatee County residents are processed through the Middle District of Florida. Navigating the process alone can be confusing, but our team ensures every step is handled properly.
Here’s how we support clients:
- Initial consultation to evaluate your financial circumstances
- Selection of the appropriate chapter: 7, 13, or 11
- Preparation and filing of all required documents
- Immediate relief through the automatic stay, which halts lawsuits, foreclosure, and wage garnishments
- Representation at the trustee meeting and throughout the case
- Guidance through discharge or completion of a repayment plan
Why Clients Choose Stiberman Law
People in Manatee County turn to us because we:
- Have more than a decade of bankruptcy law experience
- Offer bilingual services in English and Spanish
- Provide hands-on support for every client
- Prioritize asset protection using Florida’s exemptions
Client Case Study
One client was overwhelmed by multiple credit card balances and persistent creditor lawsuits. By filing Chapter 7 bankruptcy, we were able to discharge the unsecured debts within months, allowing the client to regain control of their finances and move forward debt-free.
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.
Do I Have A Case?
FIND OUT IT'S FREE
Contact Stiberman Law Today!
Speaking to our law firm is always 100% confidental. Help is just a call away!
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.
Comparing Bankruptcy Options
Chapter 7 is often the best choice for people who need a clean slate. It erases unsecured debts such as credit cards and medical bills, while Florida’s exemptions allow many to keep their property.
Chapter 13 works well for individuals who have regular income but need more time to catch up on payments. It provides a repayment plan that lasts three to five years and discharges remaining eligible debts once the plan ends.
Chapter 11, used mostly by businesses or those with substantial debts, allows reorganization while keeping operations running.
Types of Bankruptcy Services We Provide
At Stiberman Law, we tailor our services to meet each client’s specific financial needs. Our team handles:
Chapter 7
Chapter 7 bankruptcy for fast elimination of unsecured debts
Chapter 13
Chapter 13 bankruptcy for creating repayment plans that fit your income
Chapter 11
Chapter 11 bankruptcy for businesses or individuals with large or complex debt
Foreclosure
– Your experienced bankruptcy attorney
Lern More About Our Founding Attorney
Here’s a 5-star review from our client:
They interacted with compassion and professionalism at every level. Angel was especially helpful in guiding me through all of the steps. Estefan was very knowledgeable and explained everything to me about the process. Highly recommend this firm.
Victor Santiago
Robert Stiberman
Frequently asked questions about bankruptcy in Manatee County, FL
What debts can bankruptcy discharge?
Will bankruptcy stop foreclosure?
Do I need to have a certain amount of debt to qualify?
How long does the bankruptcy process take?
Start Your Financial Recovery in Manatee County
Living under the weight of debt does not have to be permanent. The team at Stiberman Law is here to help Manatee County residents stop creditor actions, protect assets, and move toward financial recovery.
Contact Stiberman Law today for a free consultation and take the first step toward a fresh financial start.