Written By: Attorney Robert Stiberman| Updated 5/17/2023
Westchester, FL Bankruptcy Attorney Robert Stiberman
Debt can sneak up on anyone, creating a maze of financial trouble that feels impossible to escape. Whether it’s mounting credit card bills or unexpected medical expenses, many individuals in Westchester find themselves weighed down by financial struggles. Seeking professional help from a knowledgeable attorney can provide the guidance needed to regain control.
A skilled bankruptcy attorney plays a critical role in navigating these financial crises. From understanding complex legal processes to representing clients in court, we offer the experience required for managing Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy cases. Why face such daunting challenges alone when you can contact a bankruptcy law firm?
At Stiberman Law, P.A., we pride ourselves on helping Westchester residents achieve a fresh start. Our commitment to providing clear, compassionate, and professional legal advice sets us apart as a trusted partner in your journey towards financial recovery. By working together, we can turn the page to a new, debt-free chapter in your life.
There are different types of bankruptcy, each with its own features and requirements. We will explain Chapter 7, Chapter 11, and Chapter 13 bankruptcies, focusing on their key characteristics and differences.
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy involves liquidating non-exempt assets to pay off creditors. It is often chosen by individuals who do not have a regular income. Eligibility requires passing a means test, which assesses income and expenses.
Chapter 11 Bankruptcy is typically utilized by businesses needing to reorganize their debts while continuing operations. This type lets businesses create a plan to pay creditors over time.
Chapter 13 Bankruptcy deals with creating a repayment plan to pay back debts over 3 to 5 years. It’s suited for individuals with a steady income who want to keep their assets. This option allows debtors to restructure and manage their finances more efficiently.
Each bankruptcy type has specific eligibility criteria.
For Chapter 7, a person needs to pass the means test to show that their income is below the state median income. If their income is above, they must provide detailed financial records to prove they can’t pay their debts.
Chapter 11 does not have a means test, but a business must demonstrate its financial distress and ability to reorganize effectively.
For Chapter 13, individuals must have a regular income.
Bankruptcy provides a structured way to manage overwhelming debt and prevent creditor harassment. It is crucial to understand the differences and requirements of each type to choose the best path for financial recovery.
Filing for bankruptcy involves a series of steps to ensure a structured approach to resolving debts.
Step 1: Gather Documentation
We need to collect extensive financial documents. This includes income statements, bank records, loan agreements, and credit card statements. Having all documents in order is crucial.
Step 2: Accurate Financial Disclosure
It’s essential to provide a complete financial disclosure. Inaccurate information can lead to complications or even case dismissal. Every debt, asset, expense, and income source must be disclosed.
Step 3: Filing the Petition
Next, we file the bankruptcy petition with the appropriate bankruptcy court. This includes various forms detailing your financial situation.
Step 4: Automatic Stay
Upon filing the petition, an automatic stay goes into effect. This halts most collection actions against you. It’s a relief and gives you breathing room.
Step 5: Meeting with Creditors
We attend a meeting of creditors, also known as a 341 meeting. Here, creditors can ask about your financial situation and the bankruptcy plans.
Step 6: Court Hearings
Depending on the type of bankruptcy, there may be additional court hearings. These hearings will address any disputes and finalize your repayment plan or discharge.
Step 7: Completion
If all is in order, the court will discharge eligible debts, completing the bankruptcy process. You must adhere to any additional requirements, like financial management courses, to ensure a successful discharge.
By following these steps, you can navigate the bankruptcy process more smoothly. This helps you work towards a fresh financial start.
At the Bankruptcy Law Firm of Stiberman Law, our trusted Westchester bankruptcy attorney can help determine if bankruptcy is right for you.
Led by top-rated Westchester bankruptcy attorney Robert Stiberman, your success is our primary goal at Stiberman Law. Robert Stiberman is a trusted bankruptcy lawyer serving Westchester with over 12 years of experience representing bankruptcy clients throughout Florida. Robert is a member of the Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Florida and is authorized to represent Miami-Dade, county residents living in Westchester, FL, seeking to file for bankruptcy protection.
Robert Stiberman is a University of Miami Law School Graduate and a UM Alumni. Robert is one of the top bankruptcy attorneys in Florida with a track record of success to prove it. Robert and the office team consistently receive positive reviews for their hard work.
To help you with your debt situation, our committed Westchester Bankruptcy Attorneys are ready to represent you, presenting you with the best options to get you back on your feet.
At Stiberman Law, P.A., our team boasts extensive experience in bankruptcy laws. We have built a reputation for being efficient advocates for our clients facing financial hardships. Our lawyers have a deep understanding of bankruptcy processes, helping you navigate complex legal challenges.
We pride ourselves on providing personalized service. Our friendly, professional attorneys work diligently to guide you through every step while addressing your concerns. Your success is our top priority, and our strategies to meet your unique needs.
We offer a free consultation to prospective clients which gives you the opportunity to discuss your case with one of our experienced attorneys, understand your options, and get a clear plan moving forward. Schedule your free consultation today to take the first step towards financial stability.
Our firm has extensive experience in a wide range of bankruptcy services, including Chapter 7, Chapter 11, and Chapter 13 bankruptcies. We also handle real estate and foreclosure litigation, to ensure we can meet your needs no matter the situation.
At Stiberman Law, we focus on bankruptcy, and as Westchester bankruptcy attorneys, we are authorized to practice in the Southern District of Florida. Westchester cases are heard in the Miami Division. We are familiar with the Local Rules specific to this court which is critical to the best possible outcome of your case.
Stiberman Law Westchester Bankruptcy attorneys understand the Federal Rules of Bankruptcy Procedure, local rules, and the applicability of state law concerning exemptions.
Filing for bankruptcy requires compliance with the U.S. Bankruptcy Code, the Federal Rules of Bankruptcy Procedure, and the bankruptcy court’s local rules.
Westchester residents filing in the Southern District of Florida also have to comply with the Miami Division’s local rules.
Bankruptcy attorney Robert Stiberman has more than 12 years of experience navigating the bankruptcy process and is constantly up to date with the changes in bankruptcy law.
In addition to providing you with experience on federal bankruptcy law and procedure, Westchester bankruptcy attorney Robert Stiberman will be able to advise you on the applicability of federal or state exemptions to protect your property in bankruptcy and everything you need to know about bankruptcy.
At Stiberman Law we offer a free consultation to determine if bankruptcy will help you achieve your goal.
Understanding what debts can be discharged in bankruptcy and what property you can keep is critical in determining if bankruptcy is right for you.
A Stiberman Law Westchester bankruptcy attorney will review your debts, assets, and financial history before recommending if bankruptcy is right for you.
If you’re struggling with debt, a bankruptcy lawyer in Westchester can help determine which type of bankruptcy filing may be the right choice. Whether you’re considering Chapter 7, Chapter 11, or Chapter 13 bankruptcy, a skilled attorney can evaluate your financial situation and provide guidance on the best course of action.
Choosing the right type of bankruptcy for your specific situation is important, as selecting the wrong one can have severe consequences, including the possible loss of property. To learn more about each type of bankruptcy and find the right attorney to assist you, click on the links below:
Filing for bankruptcy requires completing around 23 official federal and local forms required by the Southern District of Florida when applicable. A Stiberman Law Westchester bankruptcy attorney will instruct you on the documents you need to collect prior to filing bankruptcy, will prepare and file all appropriate forms electronically, and will comply with Local Rules.
Filing the voluntary bankruptcy petition will start the bankruptcy process and stop most collection efforts. Our experienced bankruptcy lawyer will notify all creditors, file the necessary documents in Miami-Dade county court where collection lawsuits may be pending, and explain what happens after your case is filed.
Westchester, Florida is located in Miami-Dade, county Florida. Westchester residents filing bankruptcy in the Southern District of Florida will be assigned to the Miami Division of the Bankruptcy court.
The Miami Division is located in C. Clyde Atkins United States Courthouse, 301 North Miami Avenue, Room 150, Miami, Florida 33196. Click {here} for a road map to the courthouse.
The Miami Division is headquartered in downtown Miami, Florida.
A Stiberman Law bankruptcy lawyer will discuss what to expect at your meeting of creditors, including commonly asked questions, and will work towards complying with your Miami Division (if applicable) bankruptcy Trustee’s requirements and steps you need to take to obtain your discharge.
Chapter 7 bankruptcy has helped millions of Americans unburden themselves from the crushing weight of debts. It is called a straight or liquidation bankruptcy because a Trustee will seek to liquidate your non-exempt assets to repay debts. Many cases are called “no asset” cases because there is nothing to liquidate. The Chapter 7 process usually takes 4 to 6 months to complete and stops most collection efforts and lawsuits from day one.
One of the most important things to look for when comparing bankruptcy attorneys is their level of experience and expertise. Bankruptcy is highly technical and requires familiarity with Federal and Local Rules.
Westchester bankruptcy lawyer Robert Stiberman obtained most of his knowledge through years of bankruptcy law practice representing clients and appearing in court.
Things to look for concerning a bankruptcy attorney’s experience:
In addition to being a licensed Florida attorney, bankruptcy attorney Robert Stiberman is admitted to practice in the Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Florida.
Reviews are critical and read multiple ones to get a more accurate picture. Bankruptcy lawyer Robert Stiberman and his firm consistently receive 5-star google reviews for their professionalism, dedication, and customer service. Click here to read some reviews.
Accreditations from third-party sites such as Avvo are also good for your bankruptcy attorney.
Feeling comfortable with your attorney and working with a bankruptcy lawyer with good customer service skills is essential.
Getting along with your attorney is key to an effective attorney-client relationship. Filing for bankruptcy involves much communication with your attorney and the attorney’s staff.
Language Skills – If English is not your first language and you feel more comfortable communicating in your language, it may be a good idea to find a bankruptcy lawyer who speaks your language or has staff who does.
Bankruptcy attorney Robert Stiberman and his bankruptcy professionals have received numerous positive customer reviews for their hard work.
Although the law allows individuals seeking to file for bankruptcy to file without a lawyer, or pro se, due to the complexities and potential bankruptcy consequences, including the loss of your property, we recommend you seek the advice of an experienced Westchester bankruptcy lawyer at Stiberman Law.
One of the main questions people ask is how much it will cost them to file for bankruptcy and whether they can afford it.
At Stiberman Law we understand our client’s financial challenges, have developed efficiencies to reduce costs, and can offer affordable rates and convenient payment plans.
If you need help filing for bankruptcy in Florida, the Westchester bankruptcy lawyers at Stiberman Law are here to help. With more than 12 years of experience in Florida bankruptcy law, we can answer your questions and guide you regarding your financial future. Contact us today or complete our contact form to schedule a consultation.
Other locations near Westchester, FL served by bankruptcy attorney Robert Stiberman:
Westchester, Florida Bankruptcy Guide (2023)
Westview, Florida Bankruptcy Guide (2023)
Westwood Lakes, Florida Bankruptcy Guide (2023)
Big Coppitt Key, Florida Bankruptcy Guide (2023)
Bankruptcy is a vital decision that can provide a fresh start. It’s crucial to have a knowledgeable attorney to guide you through this process.
At Stiberman Law, P.A., we understand the complexities of bankruptcy and are here to help. Reaching out to us for an initial consultation is the first step towards your debt relief. We are dedicated to providing efficient legal representation in bankruptcy cases.
It’s important to take this step with a trusted professional by your side. Don’t hesitate to reach out to our Westchester county bankruptcy lawyers. We look forward to assisting you with your bankruptcy needs.
Speaking to our law firm is always 100% confidential. We do our best to respond to inquiries in under 24 hours.
We’ll get in touch as soon as possible.