Bankruptcy is a legal process that helps people who can’t pay their debts get a fresh start. Filing for bankruptcy in Florida can be complex, so it’s important to understand the process and your options. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about filing for bankruptcy in Fl. We’ll cover topics such as eligibility, the different types of bankruptcy, and what to expect during the process.
If you’re considering filing for bankruptcy in Florida, this guide will provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision.
Bankruptcy is a legal process that seeks to provide relief to individuals and businesses who can no longer pay their debts. Article I, Section 8, Clause 4, of the United States Constitution authorizes Congress to establish uniform laws on Bankruptcy. Congress enacted the “Bankruptcy Code” in 1978 under the authority granted by the U.S. Constitution. Bankruptcy is governed by Federal Law codified under title 11 of the United States Code, which has been amended several times since its enactment.
Bankruptcy is regulated by the Federal Rules of Bankruptcy Procedure and the local rules of the applicable bankruptcy court. In bankruptcy Florida, federal law and guidelines govern all aspects of bankruptcy except when it comes to exemptions. Although Bankruptcy is federal law, Florida has opted out of the use of federal exemptions to protect property in bankruptcy and requires the use of Florida Bankruptcy Exemptions listed in Florida Statutes, Chapter 222.
Read More: Florida Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Exemptions
Note: If you haven’t resided in Florida permanently for at least 730 days immediately before you file, you will have to investigate the exemptions of the state in which you lived for 730 days before you filed or federal exemptions.
Federal Courts are divided into judicial districts across the United States. Each judicial district may contain more than one bankruptcy court. There are 90 bankruptcy districts across the Country. The State of Florida is divided into three judicial districts that are referred to as the Southern, Middle, and Northern Districts of Florida. Each Judicial District in Florida has one bankruptcy Court.
The main parties involved in a bankruptcy case are:
Bankruptcy filings in Florida are divided into consumer bankruptcies and business bankruptcies.
Consumer bankruptcies in Florida are filed by individuals seeking to liquidate or reorganize debt. Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcies are the most common bankruptcies filed by individuals in Florida.
Business bankruptcies are filed by business entities seeking an orderly liquidation of their assets under Chapter 7 or to reorganize their debts under Chapter 11 bankruptcy.
Filing for bankruptcy allows you to discharge most debts, which means you will not have to repay them.
There are six different types of bankruptcies, Chapter 7, Chapter 9, Chapter 11, Chapter 12, Chapter 13, and Chapter 15. Chapter 7 bankruptcy is the most common type of bankruptcy filed in Florida, followed by Chapter 13. In most cases, you will only be able to file for one type of bankruptcy.
When a person files for bankruptcy, they are asking the court to declare that they are unable to pay their debts.
This usually happens when someone is dealing with a lot of debt and can’t seem to make any progress in getting rid of it.
Filing for bankruptcy can be a way to get a fresh start and wipe the slate clean, so to speak. In 1934, in Local Loan Co. v. Hunt, 292 U.S. 234, 244 (1934), the United States Supreme Court, referring to bankruptcy, noted:
“It gives to the honest but unfortunate debtor…a new opportunity in life and a clear field for future effort, unhampered by the pressure and discouragement of preexisting debt.”
The Debtor accomplishes a “fresh start” through an Order of Discharge from the bankruptcy judge. The Order of Discharge explains that Creditors cannot collect discharged debts, as well as the consequences of violating the Order. Creditors who violate an Order of Discharge can be required to pay the debtor’s damages and attorney’s fees.
Note: The Order of Discharge informs the Debtor that they are not prevented from choosing to repay any debt “voluntarily” after the entry of the Order.
However, it’s important to understand that bankruptcy is not a magic solution and it may have some serious consequences.
For one, depending on the type of bankruptcy filed, you may have to turn some personal property over to your creditors. To learn more about the property you can keep or what property can be lost in bankruptcy, please refer to our section on Florida Bankruptcy Exemptions.
You will also have a hard time getting credit in the future.
Note: Some clients start rebuilding their credit and begin getting decent credit offers within 6 months of receiving their bankruptcy discharge.
So, while bankruptcy can be helpful in some situations, it’s important to understand the pros and cons before deciding to file for Bankruptcy in Florida.
When people are struggling with overwhelming debt, they may feel like there is no way out. Filing for bankruptcy can provide much-needed relief, freedom, and a fresh start.
Bankruptcy can help you get a fresh start by wiping out your debts and giving you a new beginning. It can help you get rid of harassing phone calls from creditors, stop wage garnishments, and protect your assets.
Some of the benefits of filing for bankruptcy in Fl include:
Note: the Cramdown rule can apply in Chapter 13 bankruptcy, but not in Chapter 7.
Pro Tip: You must also account for other items paid through your Chapter plan including the Trustees Fees (typically around 10% of the funds paid out through your chapter 13 plan).
Pro Tip: A cure and maintain provision can also be used to catch up with HOA or condominium-related charges.
Note: On many occasions, after obtaining a judgment against you, Credit Card companies or entities who purchase credit card debt, record and certify the judgment to attach a lien to your home.
Note. Debtors are required to use forms specific to this program and adhere to all guidelines.
Bankruptcy can also help you rebuild your credit rating. After you have filed for bankruptcy, you will have to rebuild your credit rating from scratch. But with responsible financial behavior, you can eventually raise your credit score and get approved for car loans, mortgages, and other types of financing.
Filing for bankruptcy is a big decision, and it is not something that you should take lightly. But if you are struggling with debt and you feel like you have nowhere else to turn, bankruptcy may be the best option for you.
When you’re struggling with debt, bankruptcy might seem like the best way out. But before you file, it’s important to understand the potential downsides.
Filing for bankruptcy should not be taken lightly. It is a serious decision that can have long-term consequences, both financial and otherwise. Before you file, make sure you understand what those consequences are and whether they are worth the potential benefits. Bankruptcy is not always the best solution to your debt problems, so it’s important to weigh all your options with a bankruptcy lawyer before making a decision.
There are several costs associated with filing, including attorney fees, court fees, filing fees, and credit counseling fees.
The most common fees associated with filing for bankruptcy in Fl are court filing fees, attorney’s fees, and costs. There are also some miscellaneous fees which can be found here.
The Court filing fees are due at the time of filing your bankruptcy petition. If you cannot afford to pay the filing fee, you may request to pay the filing fee in installments paying a portion of the fee at the time of filing and the balance within a court-designated time frame. Each Florida bankruptcy court may have its own procedures concerning paying the court filing fee in installments.
The Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Florida has established the below guidelines for paying filing fees in installments:
BANKRUPTCY TYPE | PETITION FILING FEE | INITIAL INSTALLMENT PAYMENT | FINAL INSTALLMENT PAYMENT |
Chapter 7 | $388.00 | $169.00 | $169.00 |
Chapter 11 | $1,738.00 | $869.00 | $869.00 |
Chapter 12 | $278.00 | $139.00 | $139.00 |
Chapter 13 | $313.00 | $156.50 | $156.50 |
If you cannot afford to pay the fees associated with filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you may be able to apply for a fee waiver by filing an application with the bankruptcy court to waive the fee. See Official Bankruptcy Form 103B. You must meet meeting certain poverty guidelines to qualify for this fee waiver.
Bankruptcy attorneys in Florida will charge you different rates depending on the complexity of your case and the type of bankruptcy you are filing. Most bankruptcy lawyers will offer you a free bankruptcy consultation to discuss if bankruptcy is recommended, information about the process, what to expect, and how much they will charge for their services.
On average Chapter 7 fees range from $1200 to $1800. With an understanding that you are facing financial difficulties, many attorneys will offer you payment plans to pay their fees. Some firms offer $0 down options. At Stiberman Law our typical Chapter 7 fees range from $900 to $1500 to file your case with available payment plans.
Different than Chapter 7, Chapter 13 attorney’s fees are governed by court guidelines. Many chapter 13 lawyers will structure a portion of their fees as part of your Chapter 13 plan payment to the bankruptcy trustee.
The total cost of filing bankruptcy will vary depending on your location and the type of bankruptcy you file.
Filing for bankruptcy can be a confusing and complex process. However, once you understand the basics, it’s relatively straightforward. We’ll explain how bankruptcy works in Florida and provide some tips on what to expect.
When you file for bankruptcy, you are asking the court to declare that you are unable to pay your debts. This may happen because of job loss, medical expenses, or other financial difficulties.
To file for bankruptcy in Florida the Debtor must have lived, had its principal place of business, or have its principal assets within a Florida district longer than in any other district over the last 180 days before filing the bankruptcy petition or must have another reason under 28 U.S.C section 1408.
You may file a bankruptcy case as an individual where you are referred to as the Debtor or you may file the case jointly with your spouse.
The answer is no. A married couple is not required to file for bankruptcy together.
Factors to consider in a married couple filing for bankruptcy together:
To understand what debts can be eliminated in bankruptcy, you must understand the difference between dischargeable and non-dischargeable debts.
A dischargeable debt is a debt that you are no longer responsible for. It is important to note the distinction between discharging a debt vs eliminating or erasing a debt. Filing for bankruptcy will not erase your debts but rather remove your responsibility from debts that are dischargeable in bankruptcy. In applying this principle, if you and another person signed a personal guarantee on a debt, and you file for bankruptcy and obtain an Order of Discharge from the court, you will no longer be responsible for that debt, but the person whom you co-signed with will be responsible.
Most debts are dischargeable when you file for bankruptcy in Florida. These include debts related to:
Non-Dischargeable debt includes:
When you’re considering bankruptcy, it’s important to understand the difference between secured debt and unsecured debt.
Secured debt is debt that is backed by an asset. The most common types of secured debt are mortgages and car loans.
Unsecured debt is debt that is not backed by an asset. The most common types of unsecured debt are credit cards and medical bills.
Bankruptcy can help you discharge or get rid of your unsecured debts. However, if you have any secured debts, you will still be responsible for making payments on those debts if you intend to avoid the lender from seizing those assets.
When filing for bankruptcy in Florida you will have to list all of your debts in the bankruptcy schedules and you must indicate your intention with regards to how you will “treat” or deal with property that is subject to secured debt such as a vehicle that you are financing or the mortgage on your home.
Note: If you file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy and you are not current with your secured debt payments, your lender can request permission from your bankruptcy judge to lift the automatic stay and commence or continue proceedings to seize the property. Usually, the lender will only be able to go after the property and not you personally. This is referred to as in rem proceedings, meaning that your lender is going after the property to recoup their loan and not you personally.
Pro Tip: If you are behind on a secured debt and want to keep your property, you may want to explore filing Chapter 13 bankruptcy in Florida instead of Chapter 7. Chapter 13 has reorganization or repayment provisions for purposes of getting current with past due secured debt payments such as mortgage payments, car payments, past due property taxes, and past due HOA or condominium dues.
At Stiberman Law we are often asked this question. You are required to list all of your debts including all of your credit cards. You cannot use credit cards nor make any payments towards any credit cards while you are in bankruptcy and also at least during the four months immediately prior to filing for bankruptcy.
The property you can keep when filing for bankruptcy in Fl will depend on the exemptions applied to the property and which Chapter of Bankruptcy you file. Luckily, Florida has some of the best exemptions or protections in the country.
Florida bankruptcy exemptions only apply when you have lived in Florida for at least 730 days immediately before filing bankruptcy. Florida exemptions must be properly claimed and are not automatic. Click here to learn more about Florida Exemptions.
In Chapter 7, the Trustee assigned to your case will seek to liquidate or sell any non-exempt property. As an example, if you own a car that is worth $7500 and is paid in full at the time of filing bankruptcy, by applying the Florida Motor Vehicle Exemption you can only protect $1000 of the car’s value. Unless you can apply for another exemption, the Trustee can force you to turn over the vehicle so that it can be liquidated to pay your creditors. If you want to keep the vehicle, you will have to pay the Trustee $6500 (the difference between the car’s value and the exemption) within a timeframe agreeable to the Trustee.
In chapter 13 you can keep the vehicle as long as you pay the Chapter 7 liquidation value ($6500 in the above example) over the life of your Chapter 13 plan.
A Florida bankruptcy attorney can advise you in detail as to what property you can keep, what exemptions to apply, and which bankruptcy chapter is best suited for your situation.
Several different types of bankruptcy can be filed in Florida, depending on your financial situation and needs. The most common types include Chapter 7 bankruptcy, Chapter 13 bankruptcy, and Chapter 11 bankruptcy.
As an individual, you will likely be considering Chapter 7 or Chapter 13. Chapter 11 is generally reserved for businesses or for individuals who are not eligible for Chapter 13 bankruptcy.
In Florida, Chapter 7 bankruptcy is the most common form of personal bankruptcy. If you’re struggling to make ends meet, you might be considering filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy.
In Chapter 7 Bankruptcy, the debtor’s non-exempt assets are liquidated to pay creditors. The debtor is then discharged from all personal liability for those debts.
Chapter 7 bankruptcy is also known as straight bankruptcy or liquidation bankruptcy. It is the simplest and quickest form of bankruptcy. In most cases, the entire process can be completed in as little as four to six months.
Read More: Chapter 7 Bankruptcy: The Complete Guide
Here are some of the elements that have to be considered:
Want an easy way to do this online? Use the Quick Median Income Test
Note: If the majority of your debts are business debts, then you are not required to pass the means test.
Chapter 13 Bankruptcy is a form of personal bankruptcy that allows the debtor to reorganize their debts and repay them over a period of time. Chapter 13 Bankruptcy is available to individuals who do not meet the eligibility requirements for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy or who are seeking to benefit from relief available in Chapter 13 that may not be available in a Chapter filing.
Chapter 13 bankruptcy is also known as reorganization bankruptcy, meaning it can be a good option for individuals who are behind on their payments and want to catch up.
To file for Chapter 13 Bankruptcy in Florida and be eligible to receive a discharge, here are the requirements to consider before filing:
If you meet these qualifications, Chapter 13 may be a good option for you.
Here are the requirements to receive a discharge after filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy in Florida:
Note: The financial management course is different than the Credit counseling course required before you field your case.
Once the repayment plan is complete, the debtor is discharged from all remaining personal liability for their debts.
Chapter 11 Bankruptcy
Chapter 11 Bankruptcy is a form of bankruptcy that is available to individuals and businesses. In Chapter 11 Bankruptcy, the debtor reorganizes their debts and repays them over a period of time. The repayment plan must last for three to five years, and the debtor must make monthly payments to their creditors. If the debtor misses a payment, they may be subject to enforcement proceedings.
Once the repayment plan is complete, the debtor is discharged from all remaining personal liability for their debts.
If you are a business, you may want to consider filing for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy. This type of bankruptcy can help you reorganize your debts and catch up on payments.
When deciding which type of bankruptcy to file, it is important to speak with an experienced bankruptcy attorney who can evaluate your situation
Filing for bankruptcy in Florida is an important decision that you might have been putting off for quite some time. Here are some things to consider when you are getting ready to file:
A bankruptcy attorney will help you to understand the process of filing for bankruptcy, which type of bankruptcy is best for your situation, and will work to get the best possible outcome for your case. A bankruptcy attorney will also be knowledgeable about federal and local rules to ensure you comply will all requirements and avoid unnecessary pitfalls or the possible loss of property.
They can also help to protect your interests if your creditors try to take advantage of you. Although there may be costs or fees when hiring a bankruptcy attorney, they can also be worth the investment. Many attorneys offer payment plans and affordable solutions.
A good attorney will guide you through the process and make sure that everything goes as smoothly as possible. They will also help you to understand your options and make smart decisions.
You will be required to take a credit counseling course from a credit counseling agency at least 180 days before you file for bankruptcy.
This course will help you make good financial decisions after your bankruptcy proceedings are over.
There are two main types of bankruptcy: Chapter 7 and Chapter 13. Chapter 7 is known as liquidation bankruptcy, while Chapter 13 is known as a reorganization bankruptcy.
In a Chapter 7 bankruptcy, the trustee will sell your non-exempt assets and use the proceeds to pay off your creditors. In a Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you will repay your debts over a three to five-year period.
Read More: Chapter 7 vs Chapter 13 Bankruptcy: Which Is Right For You
Filing for Bankruptcy in Florida requires completing more than 80 pages of forms that seek to present your financial picture. You will be required to list all of your assets and debts as well as historic information including transfers of property, debt repayment, gifts, closed bank accounts, and previous businesses.
Gathering the following documents will assist you in preparing the Bankruptcy Petition and Schedules.
Read more: Complete list of documents needed to file Chapter 7 Bankruptcy.
Note: The same information will assist you if you will be filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy in Florida.
When filing for bankruptcy in Florida, you must choose the Florida district in which you are filing and the reason for selecting that district.
You must choose the district in which you have lived longer than any other district over the last 180 days or based on another reason pursuant to 28 U.S.C. section 1408.
Florida is divided into three federal districts, each with its own bankruptcy court:
A bankruptcy petition is a document that you give to the court to say that you want to go bankrupt. It must contain information about your assets, debts, income, expenses, and other financial details. Click here for more information on the official bankruptcy forms necessary to file.
Depending on your jurisdiction, you may be required to file Local Forms as well.
It is important to work closely with an experienced bankruptcy attorney throughout the process to help ensure a smooth and successful bankruptcy filing.
In addition, you will need to provide supporting documents such as credit card statements and tax returns.
If you are unable to pay the full fee in a lump sum, you may apply to pay the filing fee in installments. You may also apply for a waiver of the filing fee which is based on the poverty guidelines set by the IRS.
Filing for bankruptcy will stop most collection actions against you. This includes wage garnishment, repossession, and foreclosure. However, some debts cannot be discharged in bankruptcy, such as child support, alimony, student loans, and taxes.
Although, when applicable, filing for bankruptcy invokes the automatic stay in accordance with 11 U.S.C. section 362, stopping collections and legal actions, you must take steps to ensure the court on which you have pending action is aware of your bankruptcy filing. This is accomplished by filing a Suggestion of Bankruptcy. A Suggestion of Bankruptcy is a legal document filed in the Court where you have a pending action advising the court of your bankruptcy case number, the date and time of your bankruptcy filing, and information pertaining to the Automatic Stay.
The United States Trustee, which is part of the Department of Justice, will appoint a trustee, who is not a government employee to administer your case.
The bankruptcy Trustee is typically the main point of contact with the Court. In most cases, unless there are unresolved disputes or matters required to be brought before your bankruptcy judge, you will likely not have to appear before the bankruptcy judge.
The Trustee will communicate information you will need to provide at least 7 days prior to your meeting of Creditors. This may include:
The Trustee will conduct your 341 meeting of creditors, typically within 30 days of filing your bankruptcy petition. During the meeting, the Trustee will ask you a series of questions including, questions pertaining to your assets, debts, financial history, expected income, and also concerning settled, potential, and active lawsuits.
Note: The Trustee will seek to understand if there are assets that can be applied to repay your creditors.
Creditors who wish to examine you or ask you questions will also have a limited opportunity to ask a few questions during your meeting of creditors.
Note: Most creditors never show up.
The trustee will perform most of the administrative activities of your case including, conducting the 341 meeting of creditors, reviewing your assets and liabilities, determining if there are assets available for distribution to repay your creditors, proving status updates to the parties and the court, and filing necessary reports and court documents related to your case.
Once you have filed for bankruptcy, you will be issued a bankruptcy case number and a notice of your 341 Meeting of Creditors.
A meeting of creditors is a meeting where your creditors can ask questions about your assets and liabilities. This meeting is mandatory for all individuals who file for bankruptcy.
If you hired a bankruptcy attorney, your lawyer will:
The Trustee will advise if the meeting is concluded without further need for information or if additional information is required. The Trustee will inform you if a follow-up meeting of creditors date or further examination is needed.
Usually within a few days after the meeting of creditors, if the Trustee determines that there are no assets to liquidate, the Trustee will file a Report of No Distribution with the Court. This is one of the best possible outcomes in a Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Florida since it means that the Trustee will not be seeking to liquidate your property.
In Florida, if the Trustee determines that there are assets to liquidate, the Trustee may file a Notice of Assets and Notice of Deadline to File Claims to allow creditors to file claims with the Court for distribution. Unless an extension is sought and granted, Creditors will have 90 days in which to file a claim from the date of the Notice.
Within 90 days from the date you file your case, you must complete a Personal Financial Management Course from an approved agency and file a Certificate of Completion with the bankruptcy court. Failure to do so will result in your bankruptcy case being closed without the entry of an order of discharge.
If everything goes well and you have filed a Certificate of Completion of Financial Management Course, the Court will file an Order of Discharge and your bankruptcy case will be closed.
Bankruptcy can be a difficult process, but it’s important to know that there is help available for those who need it. With the right guidance, you can successfully file for bankruptcy and move on with your life.
Florida Bankruptcy Checklist:
Educate yourself on Chapters 7 and Chapter 13
Check whether bankruptcy will erase the type of debt you have
Determine whether you can retain your personal property
Determine whether you qualify to file for bankruptcy
Consider hiring a bankruptcy lawyer
Stop paying qualifying debts
Gather necessary financial documents
Take a credit counseling course
Fill out and file paperwork
Turn over financial documents
Attend the 341 Creditor’s Meeting
Attend the confirmation hearing and make plan payments (Chapter 13 only)
File a debtor’s education course certificate
Receive your debt discharge
If you are in debt, you may be wondering if bankruptcy is a good option for you.
The different types of bankruptcy each offer different protections, but in Florida, some exemptions allow you to protect your property.
Here are the most important exemptions to know:
If you are considering filing for bankruptcy in Florida, it is important to understand how these exemptions work and whether they will be able to help protect the property that you own. By doing your research and seeking experienced legal advice, you can make an informed decision about whether bankruptcy is right for you.
If you are planning to file for bankruptcy, it is important to understand the exemptions available in your state. Exemptions protect your assets from being seized by creditors. In some states, you can choose between using the state exemption list or the federal bankruptcy exemption list. However, Florida bankruptcy only allows the use of the state exemption list and has some of the best exemptions in the country. To use Florida Exemptions when filing for bankruptcy, you must have resided in Florida at least 730 days immediately prior to filing bankruptcy.
There are a few things you can do to prevent problems with your Florida bankruptcy exemptions:
When you file for bankruptcy in Florida, you will need to provide several documents to support your case. Here is a comprehensive list of the documents required throughout the bankruptcy process.
Tax returns, unless you’re exempt:
Six months of the following:
Copies of the following (take original to court):
Things the trustee might ask for:
If you own a business, the trustee will likely need:
Things you’ll need to prepare your bankruptcy petition:
More things you might need at the creditors’ meeting:
After the creditors’ meeting:
Now that you have filed for bankruptcy in Florida, there are a few things you will need to do to complete the process.
The debtor’s education course is required to help individuals understand the basics of personal finance and money management.
The course will provide information on how to create a budget, how to save money, and how to get out of debt.
It is important to complete this course so that you can learn how to rebuild your credit and financial future.
You need to complete and file the Financial Management certificate obtained from an approved provider in order to receive your bankruptcy discharge.
After filing for bankruptcy, it is important to update your credit report so that potential creditors can see that you have taken the steps necessary to rebuild your financial future.
Updating your credit report shows potential creditors that you are working to improve your credit rating and that you are serious about getting back on track financially.
It is also important to keep updated on your credit score so you can track your progress as you work to rebuild your credit.
By taking these steps, you will be putting yourself in a better position to obtain new lines of credit in the future.
There are a few things you can do to ensure a smooth bankruptcy process.
First, make sure to gather all of the necessary documents and provide them to your attorney. This will help to ensure that your case is filed accurately and that all of your bases are covered.
Second, make sure to complete the debtor’s education course. The course will provide valuable information on how to rebuild your credit and financial future.
Finally, stay organized and keep track of all communications with your attorney. This will help to ensure that there are no misunderstandings and that you are keeping on track with your case.
For Chapter 7, the bankruptcy process can take anywhere from four to six months to complete. Some cases take longer depending on complexity and issues relating to assets and dischargeability of debts.
For Chapter 13, the process can take from 36 to 60 months to complete.
It is important to stay organized and keep track of all communications with your attorney to ensure a smooth process.
If you do not follow through with the required steps after filing for bankruptcy in Florida, you could face consequences such as:
It is important to make sure that you complete all of the required steps to ensure a smooth bankruptcy process. By following the tips above, you can help to ensure that your case goes as smoothly as possible.
The United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Florida comprises the counties of Broward, Dade, Highlands, Indian River, Martin, Monroe, Okeechobee, Palm Beach, and St. Lucie.
The United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida comprises the counties of Baker, Bradford, Brevard, Charlotte, Citrus, Clay, Collier, Columbia, De Soto, Duval, Flagler, Glades, Hamilton, Hardee, Hendry, Hernando, Hillsborough, Lake, Lee, Manatee, Marion, Nassau, Orange, Osceola, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, St. Johns, Sarasota, Seminole, Sumter, Suwannee, Union, and Volusia.
Bankruptcy Florida Court Locations for the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida are:
The United States Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Florida comprises the counties of Alachua, Bay, Calhoun, Dixie, Escambia, Franklin, Gadsden, Gilchrist, Gulf, Holmes, Jackson, Jefferson, Lafayette, Leon, Levy, Liberty, Madison, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, Taylor, Wakulla, Walton, and Washington.
Court Locations for the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Florida are:
Doreen R. Abbott
P.O. Box 56257
Jacksonville, FL
32241 -6257
Robert Altman
P.O. Box 922
Palatka, FL
32178 -0922
Gregory L. Atwater
P.O. Box 1815
Orange Park, FL
32073
Nicole Marie Cameron
235 Apollo Beach Blvd., #231
Apollo Beach, FL
33572
Dawn A. Carapella
P.O. Box 67
Valrico, FL
33595 -0067
Gene T. Chambers
P.O. Box 533987
Orlando, FL
32853 -3987
Carolyn R. Chaney
P.O. Box 530248
St. Petersburg, FL
33747 -0248
Aaron R. Cohen
P.O. Box 4218
Jacksonville, FL
32202
Gregory K. Crews
8584 Arlington Expressway
Jacksonville, FL
32211
Richard Michael Dauval
P.O. Box 13607
St. Petersburg, FL
33733 -3607
Marie E. Henkel
3560 S. Magnolia Avenue
Orlando, FL
32806
Christine L. Herendeen
P.O. Box 152348
Tampa, FL
33684
Larry S. Hyman
P.O. Box 18614
Tampa, FL
33679
Gordon P. Jones
P.O. Box 600459
Jacksonville, FL
32260 -0459
Dennis D. Kennedy
P.O. Box 541848
Merritt Island, FL
32954
Clearwater, FL
33766
Arvind Mahendru
5703 Red Bug Lake Rd. #284
Winter Springs, FL
32708
Stephen L. Meininger
707 North Franklin Street Suite 850
Tampa, FL
33602
Douglas N. Menchise
P.O. Box 14957
Carla P. Musselman
1150 SW Chapman Way Unit 310
Palm City, FL
34990
Emerson C. Noble
P.O. Box 622798
Oviedo, FL
32762 -2798
Lori Patton
P.O. Box 520547
Longwood, FL
32752
Luis E. Rivera, II
P.O. Box 1026
Fort Myers, FL
33902 -0280
Beth Ann Scharrer
P.O. Box 4550
Seminole, FL
33775
Traci K. Stevenson
P.O. Box 86690
Madeira Beach, FL
33738
Robert E. Tardif, Jr.
P.O. Box 2140
Fort Myers, FL
33902
Robert E. Thomas
P.O. 5075
Winter Park, FL
32793
Richard B. Webber, II
P.O. Box 3000
Orlando, FL
32802
Angela Welch
12191 W. Linebaugh Ave. #401
Tampa, FL
33626
Theresa M. Bender
P.O. Box 14557
Tallahassee, FL
32317
Sherry F. Chancellor
619 W. Chase Street
Pensacola, FL
32502
Marybeth W. Colon
P. O. Box 14596
Tallahassee, FL
32317
Karin A. Garvin
1801 W. Garden Street
Pensacola, FL
32502
Below is a list of bankruptcy Florida Trustees
Roberto A. Angueira
16 SW 1st Avenue
Miami, FL
33130
Michael R. Bakst
P.O. Box 407
West Palm Beach, FL
33402
Marc P. Barmat
2255 Glades Road, Suite 419A
Boca Raton, FL
33431
Scott N. Brown
SunTrust International Center
1 SE 3rd Avenue – Suite #1440
Miami, FL
33131
Jacqueline Calderin
1825 Ponce de Leon Blvd #358
Coral Gables, FL
33134
Drew M. Dillworth
2200 Museum Tower
150 W. Flagler St.
Miami, FL
33130
Marcia T. Dunn
66 West Flagler Street Suite 400
Miami, FL
33130
Robert C. Furr
2255 Glades Road, Suite 419A
Boca Raton, FL
33431
Ross R. Hartog
P.O. Box 14306
Fort Lauderdale, FL
33302
Soneet R. Kapila
1000 S. Federal Highway, Suite 200
Ft. Lauderdale, FL
33316
Nicole Testa Mehdipour
6278 North Federal Highway Suite 408
Fort Lauderdale, FL
33308
Deborah C. Menotte
P.O. Box 211087
West Palm Beach, FL
33421
Barry E. Mukamal
1 SE Third Avenue, Ste. 2150
Miami, FL
33131
Leslie S. Osborne
1300 N. Federal Hwy Suite 203
Boca Raton, FL
33432
Chad S. Paiva
6526 S. Kanner Highway, #376
Stuart, FL
34997
Sonya Salkin Slott
P.O. Box 15580
Plantation, FL
33318
Joel L. Tabas
25 S.E. 2nd Ave., Suite 248
Miami, FL 33131
Kenneth A. Welt
4581 Weston Road – #355 Suite 1000
Weston, FL
33331
Maria M. Yip
One Biscayne Tower
2 S. Biscayne Blvd, Suite 2690
Miami, FL
33131
Below is a list of the Florida Bankruptcy Judges. A bankruptcy judge is appointed to your case once the bankruptcy is filed.
Orlando
Judge Grace E. Robson **NEW**
Judge Tiffany Geyer **NEW**
Judge Karen S. Jennemann (RETIRED)
Judge Arthur B. Briskman (RETIRED)
Tampa
Jacksonville
Judge Jacob A. Brown **NEW**
Judge Jason A. Burgess **NEW**
Judge Cynthia C. Jackson (RETIRED)
Fort Myers
Contact The Stiberman Law Firm Today To See If Bankruptcy Is Right For You
If you’re tired of debt collection harassment, feeling overwhelmed, or don’t know where to start, don’t worry. We’re here to help. Our team of experts can help guide you through every step of the process and make sure that everything goes smoothly. Give us a call today and let us help you get started on your road to financial recovery.
Speaking to our law firm is always 100% confidential. We do our best to respond to inquiries in under 24 hours.
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