Fort Lauderdale Bankruptcy Attorney – Your Path to Financial Freedom
Written By: Attorney Robert Stiberman
Last Updated February 12, 2024
If you are in Fort Lauderdale and are considering filing for bankruptcy, you need a Fort Lauderdale bankruptcy attorney to guide you through the process. Bankruptcy can be a complicated process, and it is essential to have a skilled attorney who can help you navigate it. In this article, we’ll talk about everything you need to know about finding the right Fort Lauderdale bankruptcy attorney for your needs.
What is Bankruptcy?
Bankruptcy is a legal process that allows individuals or businesses to eliminate or restructure their debts. It is a way to get a fresh start financially and rebuild your credit. Bankruptcy can be a complex process, and it is essential to have a skilled attorney who can guide you through it.
Types of Bankruptcy
The most common bankruptcies filed by individuals are Chapter 7 and Chapter 13.
Chapter 7 bankruptcy is also known as liquidation bankruptcy. It is designed for individuals with little to no assets who cannot repay their debts. In a Chapter 7 bankruptcy, a trustee is appointed to sell the debtor’s non-exempt assets and use the proceeds to pay off creditors. Once the process is complete, the debtor’s remaining debts are discharged—source: Chapter 7 – Bankruptcy Basics.
Chapter 13 bankruptcy is a reorganization bankruptcy. It is designed for individuals with a regular income but need help to make monthly payments. In a Chapter 13 bankruptcy, the debtor creates a repayment plan lasting three to five years. During this time, the debtor makes monthly payments to a trustee, who distributes the funds to the creditors. Once the repayment plan is complete, the debtor’s remaining debts are discharged—source: Chapter 13 – Bankruptcy Basics.
High net-worth individuals who do not meet the eligibility requirements for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy often turn to Chapter 11 as an alternative solution. This type of bankruptcy allows for reorganizing debts and assets, making it an attractive option for individuals with significant assets and complex financial situations—source: Chapter 11 – Bankruptcy Basics.
Why You Need a Fort Lauderdale Bankruptcy Attorney
Bankruptcy can be a complicated process. It is essential to have a skilled attorney who can guide you through the process and help you make the right decisions. Here are a few reasons why you need a Fort Lauderdale bankruptcy attorney:
- Knowledge and Experience – A Fort Lauderdale bankruptcy attorney has the knowledge and experience to guide you through the process. They understand the laws and regulations related to bankruptcy and can help you make informed decisions.
- Protect Your Rights – A Fort Lauderdale bankruptcy attorney can help protect your rights. They can ensure that your creditors are not harassing you and help you understand your legal rights.
- Help You Choose the Right Type of Bankruptcy – A Fort Lauderdale bankruptcy attorney can help you choose the right type of bankruptcy for your situation. They can help you understand the differences between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy and can help you make the right decision for your financial situation.
- Help You with the Paperwork – Bankruptcy involves a lot of paperwork. A Fort Lauderdale bankruptcy attorney can help you complete the necessary paperwork and ensure that everything is filed correctly.
- Help you maximize 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.
- Represent You in Court – A Fort Lauderdale bankruptcy attorney can attend all court hearings and represent your interests. They can protect your rights and help you get the best possible outcome.
What should you consider when choosing a Fort Lauderdale Bankruptcy Attorney?
Finding the right Fort Lauderdale bankruptcy attorney can be a complex process. Here are a few things to consider when looking for an attorney:
- 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.
- Familiarity with 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. We recommend you choose an attorney familiar with the court’s requirements and guidelines.
- 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: Communication is critical when working with a Fort Lauderdale bankruptcy attorney. Please look for a responsive attorney who takes the time to answer your questions and address your concerns.
- Cost: The cost of a Fort Lauderdale bankruptcy attorney can vary. Search 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.
- Specialization: Bankruptcy law is a specialized area of law. Look for a Fort Lauderdale bankruptcy attorney specializing in and understanding bankruptcy law.
- Free consultation: Many Fort Lauderdale bankruptcy attorneys offer a free consultation. If you like, you can use this opportunity to speak with an attorney and learn more about bankruptcy.
Questions to Ask a Fort Lauderdale Bankruptcy Attorney
When you meet with a Fort Lauderdale bankruptcy attorney, there are a few questions you should ask:
- What type of bankruptcy is right for me?
- What are the pros and cons of each type of bankruptcy?
- How much will it cost?
- How long will the process take?
- Will you be representing me in court?
- What is your experience with bankruptcy cases?
- What is your success rate with bankruptcy cases?
- How often will you communicate with me about my case?
- Can you provide me with references from past clients?
- What sets you apart from other Fort Lauderdale bankruptcy attorneys?
Understanding the Bankruptcy Process: Steps and Requirements
Filing for bankruptcy can be an overwhelming and complex process. However, with the help of a Fort Lauderdale bankruptcy attorney, you can navigate the process and achieve financial freedom. The bankruptcy process generally involves the following steps:
- 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.
Working with Fort Lauderdale bankruptcy Attorney Robert Stiberman
When you work with Robert Stiberman, you can expect a personalized and thorough approach. At Stiberman Law, our process includes the following:
- Free consultation at our Fort Lauderdale office (110 E Broward Blvd, Suite 1700, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301) will assess your case and determine if bankruptcy is the right option.
- 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.
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, such as Broward Legal Aid, that offer free advice and assistance. 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, bankruptcy laws and procedures can be complicated, and filing without a lawyer 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.
Business Bankruptcy in Fort Lauderdale
Business bankruptcy can be complicated, and working with an experienced bankruptcy attorney who understands the unique challenges of business bankruptcy is crucial. 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.
Fort Lauderdale Bankruptcy Success Stories
Discover how our experienced Fort Lauderdale bankruptcy law firm helped clients eliminate thousands of dollars of debt, save their homes from foreclosure, and attain debt relief.
How Our Fort Lauderdale Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Law Firm Helped a Client Eliminate $65K of Debt
Saving Homes and Discharging Debt: A Fort Lauderdale Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Case Study
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 bankruptcy clients in Fort Lauderdale, FL, for over 15 years, providing a wide range of legal services on bankruptcy and debt relief.
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.
Robert Stiberman obtained his Juris Doctorate from the University of Miami Law School in 1996 and has been a member in good standing of the Florida Bar since 1998. Robert has been actively representing bankruptcy clients in the Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Florida, which hears cases filed in Fort Lauderdale, since 2009. Mr. Stiberman has more than 15 years of experience serving bankruptcy clients, has successfully filed and obtained a discharge in more than 1000 bankruptcy cases, and regularly practices in the Fort Lauderdale Division of the bankruptcy court. Robert regularly appears before the honorable Fort Lauderdale bankruptcy judges Scott M. Grossman and Peter D. Russin and is familiar with and stays up to date with the court’s requirements. Attorney Stiberman also regularly appears before 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.
Mr. Stiberman is one of the top bankruptcy attorneys in South Florida, with a track record of success to prove it. Robert and the office team consistently receive positive reviews for their hard work.
Mr. Stiberman is well-versed in both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy cases, having discharged millions of dollars in debts for the firm’s clients, saved hundreds of homes from foreclosure, and helped thousands of individuals regain financial freedom.
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.
We are committed to protecting your information and keeping your data secure. Please review our privacy policy concerning how we handle the information you provide us.
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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