This page was written, edited, reviewed & approved by Emil J. Fleysher following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. Emil J. Fleysher, the Founding Partner, has 15+ years of legal experience as a bankruptcy attorney. Our last modified date shows when this page was last reviewed.
Living with debt is stressful. When bills stack up and there is not enough income to cover them, you may feel stuck. You might be getting collection calls or even facing threats of foreclosure. If you live in Deerfield Beach and need help, you are not alone. Bankruptcy may be an option to help you get a fresh start.
Fleysher Law Bankruptcy & Debt Attorneys guides people through the bankruptcy process with care and skill. Our team has helped many individuals and families reduce or wipe out debt and stop creditor harassment. Whether you are facing credit card debt, medical debt, or are behind on mortgage payments, we can help you find the best path forward.
Talk to our Deerfield Beach bankruptcy lawyer today to see how we can help you protect your future and get relief from overwhelming debt.
If you are feeling overwhelmed by debt, you are not alone. Many people in Deerfield Beach are dealing with missed payments, rising interest, and pressure from creditors. It can feel like there is no way out, especially when the phone keeps ringing and the bills keep coming.
Fleysher Law Bankruptcy & Debt Attorneys is here to help you take back control. A skilled Deerfield Beach bankruptcy attorney can explain your options and guide you through each step. Whether you are facing credit card debt, medical bills, or are behind on your mortgage, we help you find the best solution for your situation.
Our team listens to your concerns and works to protect your rights. We are proud to support the Deerfield Beach community and help our neighbors move forward with confidence.
If you are thinking about bankruptcy, it is important to know which type fits your situation best. Some people need quick relief from debt, while others need a plan to catch up on payments over time. The two most common choices are Chapter 7 bankruptcy and Chapter 13 bankruptcy, and each works differently depending on your needs.
Chapter 7 bankruptcy helps people who are overwhelmed by debt and need fast relief. It works by wiping out most unsecured debts, such as credit card debt and medical bills. In many cases, you will not lose your home, car, or other important items because of Florida’s strong exemption laws. This type of bankruptcy is often completed in just a few months.
It is a good option if you have little income or assets. The process can give you a fresh start so you can move forward without the stress of constant calls from creditors. An experienced Deerfield Beach bankruptcy attorney can review your case and explain if Chapter 7 is the right path for you.
Chapter 13 bankruptcy is a good fit for people who have income but need more time to pay what they owe. Instead of wiping out debt right away, you follow a repayment plan that lasts three to five years. You can keep your home and car while catching up on missed payments. This plan may also lower what you owe on secured debts, like mortgages and car loans.
Chapter 13 can stop foreclosure and give you breathing room to fix your finances. If you are behind but want to pay what you can, this option may work well. A Deerfield Beach bankruptcy lawyer can guide you through the steps and help create a plan that fits your needs.
When you are facing serious debt, having the right help can make a big difference. A Deerfield Beach bankruptcy attorney will look at your full financial picture and explain your options in simple terms. They will help you avoid mistakes, protect your property, and deal with creditors the right way.
Some key ways an experienced Florida bankruptcy attorney can assist you include:
Every person's situation is different, and not all debt solutions work the same. A skilled bankruptcy lawyer will take the time to understand your income, expenses, assets, and debts. Then, they will explain whether Chapter 7, Chapter 13, debt settlement, or loan modification may be best for your case.
The goal is to find a plan that gives you relief and fits your goals. With help from a trusted bankruptcy attorney, you will have a clear strategy to move forward.
Filing for bankruptcy includes a lot of paperwork, and even a small mistake can cause delays or lead to your case being denied. A Deerfield Beach bankruptcy lawyer will make sure all your forms are filled out correctly and filed on time. This includes listing your income, debts, assets, and expenses. Experienced bankruptcy attorneys will also help you collect the documents needed to back up your case.
With their support, you can avoid common errors that many people make when they file alone. Filing properly from the start gives you the best chance for a smooth process and real debt relief.
When you file for bankruptcy, you may need to attend court hearings or meetings with creditors. Your bankruptcy attorney will speak on your behalf and explain your situation clearly to the bankruptcy court and the trustee. You won’t have to face these meetings alone. Your lawyer will answer questions and make sure your rights are protected.
With a legal expert by your side, the process becomes less stressful and more manageable. They will stay with you through every step, from your first filing to your final discharge.
One of the biggest benefits of hiring a Deerfield Beach bankruptcy lawyer is that they can help stop urgent threats like wage garnishment, foreclosure, or vehicle repossession. As soon as you file for bankruptcy, an automatic stay goes into effect. This legal action stops creditors from collecting payments or taking your property.
Your bankruptcy attorney will make sure this protection is enforced right away. They will contact your creditors and the bankruptcy court to let them know you are under protection. This gives you time to catch your breath and figure out your next steps without losing your income or home.
Constant calls from creditors can feel overwhelming and never-ending. As soon as you hire a bankruptcy lawyer, you can tell creditors to speak to your attorney instead. Once your case is filed, the automatic stay also forces them to stop all collection calls and letters.
Your Deerfield Beach bankruptcy attorney will handle communication with collectors, giving you peace of mind. You don’t have to explain your situation again and again. This alone brings huge relief and helps you focus on getting back on track.
Florida law allows you to protect certain assets when you file for bankruptcy. These exemptions help you keep basic things you need for daily life, even while working through your debt.
No, bankruptcy will not ruin your credit forever. It will stay on your credit report for up to seven years for Chapter 13 and ten years for Chapter 7. However, many people start rebuilding their credit soon after filing. You can begin with a secured credit card, paying bills on time, and avoiding new debt you can’t manage. Over time, your credit can improve.
Bankruptcy gives you a chance for a fresh financial start, and many people see their credit scores go up once their overwhelming debt is gone. Lenders will see that you took steps to fix your situation, which can help you get better terms in the future.
Whether you qualify depends on your income, your debts, and the type of bankruptcy you want to file. For Chapter 7, you must pass a means test, which looks at your income compared to the state average. If you earn less, you likely qualify. If not, Chapter 13 may be an option if you have regular income and can follow a repayment plan.
Other factors include your past bankruptcy filings, the kind of debt you owe, and whether you have assets that can be protected. A Deerfield Beach bankruptcy lawyer can review your case and tell you if you qualify.
When facing debt, it’s important to understand all your debt relief options before deciding what to do. Some people may benefit from filing under the bankruptcy code, while others may get help through different paths. Choosing the right method can protect your financial future.
Here are some other ways people try to manage or reduce debt:
Debt settlement means working with creditors to agree on a lower amount than what you owe. You usually pay this reduced balance in a lump sum. It may help you avoid bankruptcy, but there are risks. Not all creditors agree to settle, and you may face taxes on the forgiven amount. Settlement can also hurt your credit, especially if you’ve missed payments.
However, for some, it can be a faster way to reduce debt. A Deerfield Beach bankruptcy attorney can help you compare this with other options to see what fits your needs.
Debt consolidation means combining several debts into one new loan with a single monthly payment. This can simplify your bills and sometimes reduce your interest rates. It does not reduce what you owe, but it can help you avoid missed payments.
At Fleysher Law Bankruptcy & Debt Attorneys, our bankruptcy law firm can explain whether this is a better option than filing for bankruptcy. If you qualify, this approach might help you stay on track and work toward becoming debt-free without going to court.
Credit counseling involves working with an agency to review your debts, income, and expenses. They help create a budget and sometimes a debt management plan. This may include setting up a payment schedule with flexible payment plans to pay back what you owe over time. While it does not involve court, it works best for people with steady income.
A full-service law firm can help you decide if credit counseling is the right step or if bankruptcy offers more protection.
A loan modification changes the terms of your mortgage to make your monthly payments more affordable. This may involve extending the loan term, lowering the interest rate, or adjusting the principal. It can help you avoid foreclosure if you’re behind on payments.
A full-service law firm can work with your lender to request a modification and explain your legal options. This path can be helpful if you want to stay in your home while working toward a debt-free future.
1. What is bankruptcy litigation, and will I need to go through it?
Bankruptcy litigation happens when there is a dispute during a bankruptcy case. Most debtors do not go through litigation unless creditors challenge something. A good bankruptcy lawyer can help avoid these issues or represent you if they come up.
2. How much are the filing fees for bankruptcy?
The filing fees depend on whether you file for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13. These are separate from lawyer fees. You may qualify to pay in installments or get a fee waiver if your income is low.
3. Will I lose all my personal belongings if I file for bankruptcy?
No, most personal belongings are protected by Florida’s bankruptcy exemptions. This includes clothes, furniture, and often your car or home, depending on your situation. A local bankruptcy attorney can explain what you can keep.
4. Can both individuals and businesses file for bankruptcy?
Yes, both individuals and businesses can file. Debtors with personal debt, medical bills, or credit card balances often file for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13. Business owners may have other options available as well.
5. Do I need a lawyer for bankruptcy?
While not required, working with a bankruptcy lawyer makes the process much easier. They help with paperwork, deadlines, and bankruptcy litigation if needed. This lowers stress and increases your chance of a fresh start.
If you are struggling with overwhelming debt and unsure where to turn, our team at Fleysher Law Bankruptcy & Debt Attorneys is here to help. We are licensed to practice law in Deerfield Beach and proudly serve Palm Beach County, Coral Springs, and nearby areas. Our firm has handled thousands of bankruptcy cases, helping clients protect their property and rebuild their lives.
With well over a decade (since first established in 2010), our lawyers have the extensive experience needed to find the best course of action for your financial future. During your initial consultation, we take the time to understand your needs and explain your options clearly. Our focus is on honest advice, strong legal work, and excellent client service from start to finish.
Contact us now at (954) 484-9987 to schedule your free consultation. Let us help you take the first step toward lasting relief and peace of mind.
Fort Lauderdale, Pembroke Pines, Hollywood, Miramar, Coral Springs, Pampano Beach, Davie, Sunrise, Plantation, Deerfield Beach, and surrounding areas.
What is the income limit for Chapter 7 in Florida?
To file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, your total monthly income over the next 60 months must be less than $7,475. If your income exceeds $12,475, you are not eligible to file for Chapter 7. If your income falls between these amounts, you may need to take a means test.
What assets do you lose in Chapter 7 in Florida?
The trustee can seize items such as computers, musical instruments, fine clothing, and jewelry to pay off creditors. However, you will have the option to keep these items by paying their current used or pre-owned value, which could be significantly lower than their original price.
How long does bankruptcy take in FL?
The duration of bankruptcy proceedings depends on the chapter filed. A Chapter 7 bankruptcy typically concludes in less than a year, while a Chapter 13 bankruptcy can last between three and five years.
How much cash can you keep when filing Chapter 7 in Florida?
In Florida, if you file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, only $1,000 of your personal property is exempt from liquidation. This means that if you have $5,000 in the bank, $4,000 of it could be seized and sold to pay your creditors. Any other valuable property you own may also be subject to liquidation.
What is the minimum amount of debt for Chapter 7?
The U.S. bankruptcy code does not have a minimum dollar amount of debt required to file for bankruptcy. Any amount of debt is sufficient for filing. The size of your income is more important than the size of your debt when determining your eligibility for Chapter 7.
Can I keep my house if I file Chapter 7 in Florida?
While federal law governs bankruptcy, state law also plays a role. For example, due to Florida's generous homestead exemption, filing for bankruptcy in Florida allows you to keep your home.
Can I keep my car if I file Chapter 7 in Florida?
In Florida, if your car is worth $7,000, and the exemption limit is $5,000, you might only need to sell or surrender $2,000 worth of assets. This is due to the $5,000 exemption you can claim against the value of your vehicle.
How do I file Chapter 7 with no money in Florida?
The bankruptcy court filing fee for Chapter 7 bankruptcy is $338 across the United States. If this fee poses a financial hardship, you can apply for a fee waiver. The court will approve your request if your income is below 150% of the federal poverty guidelines.
What should I do with all my money Chapter 7?
Chapter 7 is designed to provide you with a fresh start, not leave you impoverished. Therefore, if an item, such as property, an investment, or cash, is "exempt" under bankruptcy exemption laws, you are allowed to keep it.
Is Florida debt relief real?
If you're feeling overwhelmed by debt in Florida, there are a number of organizations that can help, including banks, credit unions, online lenders, and both for-profit and nonprofit debt-relief companies.
Can I file bankruptcy myself in Florida?
If you decide to file for bankruptcy without a lawyer (pro se), you must adhere to all federal and local court laws and regulations. You must also utilize the required federal and local forms, which can be obtained from the clerk's office or the court's website.
What is the difference between Chapter 7 and 13?
Chapter 13 requires more repayment effort than Chapter 7, but you will be able to keep more of your assets. While Chapter 7 will discharge your debt, you will be required to liquidate your assets. If you want to keep your possessions, Chapter 13 may be a better option.
What is the income cut off for Chapter 7 in Florida?
The current median income limits for single-earner households in Florida as of February 2025 are $63,916 for a one-person household and $78,785 for a two-person household.
How long does Chapter 7 take in Florida?
The Chapter 7 bankruptcy process usually takes around four to six months to finish from the filing date. However, the timeframe can change depending on the complexity of your finances and the bankruptcy court's workload.
Can you back out of Chapter 7?
Dismissal of a Chapter 7 bankruptcy filing is not an automatic right. It depends on a number of factors, such as whether you possess nonexempt assets and if the dismissal would be detrimental to your creditors.
Emil specializes in consumer bankruptcy, debt settlement, and mortgage modification, offering a holistic approach to solving mortgage and debt problems. Emil listens to clients, understands their circumstances and goals, and helps them make the right choices by presenting all options and contingencies.
He is dedicated to helping South Floridians regain their financial freedom from overwhelming debt caused by high interest credit cards, bad mortgage loans, and uninsured medical expenses.
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