Port Saint Lucie Bankruptcy Lawyer

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.

 Written By:  Emil Fleysher | Published Date: September 27, 2022 
Written By: Emil Fleysher | Published Date: May 8, 2025
Port Saint Lucie bankruptcy lawyer

Bankruptcy is a legal option that can help you deal with overwhelming debt. Whether it’s credit card debt, personal loans, or missed mortgage payments, the right legal support can make a big difference. Filing for bankruptcy can stop creditor harassment, lawsuits, and wage garnishments.

Fleysher Law Bankruptcy and Debt Attorneys helps individuals and families in Port St. Lucie find relief through the bankruptcy system. We offer legal services designed to reduce stress and help you get a fresh start. Whether you're considering Chapter 7 or Chapter 13, our team provides professional guidance every step of the way.

If you live in Palm Beach County, Treasure Coast, or surrounding areas like West Palm Beach and Indian River, we’re here to help. Let us show you your best options based on your financial situation and the type of bankruptcy that fits your needs.

Why Hire a Bankruptcy Lawyer in Port Saint Lucie?

Why Hire a Bankruptcy Lawyer in Port Saint Lucie

Bankruptcy is a serious legal step. Working with a bankruptcy attorney ensures you do it right. There are deadlines, paperwork, and court rules that can affect your outcome.

A local Port St. Lucie attorney understands the courts and the process. They can guide you based on your financial situation, your debts over time, and your ability to make a monthly payment under a payment plan.

Fleysher Law Bankruptcy and Debt Attorneys offers initial consultations to help you understand your options. Whether you have secured debt or unsecured debts, or you're trying to protect your home, we’ll work with you.

Hiring the right lawyer gives you a better chance at financial freedom and peace of mind. Don’t face the bankruptcy process alone.

Understanding Florida Bankruptcy Laws

Florida law protects certain property when you file. These are called bankruptcy exemptions. They may include your home, car, personal items, and wages. Knowing how to apply these rules is important. A mistake could cost you the property you didn’t have to lose.

Experienced bankruptcy attorneys know how to apply Florida rules to your case. This includes using the homestead exemption and understanding the value of your assets.

Your bankruptcy lawyer also knows how local courts interpret the law. Each bankruptcy trustee and bankruptcy judge may apply legal provisions slightly differently.

Navigating Complex Paperwork and Court Filings

Filing for bankruptcy requires many forms. These include your bankruptcy petition, lists of assets, debts, income, and monthly expenses. Mistakes or missing information can delay your case. Worse, they can lead to dismissal.

An experienced bankruptcy lawyer ensures everything is filed correctly. They manage your paperwork, track deadlines, and handle all required notices. We also prepare you for each step, from your first filing to your meeting of creditors. You won’t have to figure it out alone.

Protecting Your Property Through Legal Exemptions

The goal of bankruptcy isn’t to take everything. Florida allows you to keep some property through legal exemptions. These may protect your car, home, wages, retirement accounts, and other items.

Using exemptions properly can mean the difference between keeping or losing property. If your case is a no-asset bankruptcy, you may lose nothing at all. Your lawyer will help make sure your property is protected to the fullest, allowed by law.

Stopping Creditors, Lawsuits, and Wage Garnishments

One of the biggest benefits of bankruptcy is the automatic stay. This court order stops most collection efforts right away. That includes wage garnishments, bank levies, and lawsuits over credit card debt, student loans, or Tax debt.

Your bankruptcy attorney will notify creditors and file everything needed to activate your protections fast. This gives you temporary relief and the chance to build long-term financial recovery.

Types of Bankruptcy Cases We Handle

Our law firm handles many kinds of bankruptcy cases for individuals and businesses. Here's how we can help.

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy (Liquidation)

Chapter 7, also called liquidation bankruptcy, is for people with limited income and high debt. It allows you to erase most unsecured debts like credit cards, medical bills, and personal loans.

It’s a fast process, usually lasting three to four months. In many cases, you won’t lose any property due to Florida’s strong bankruptcy exemptions.

To qualify, you must pass the Chapter 7 Means Test, which compares your income to Florida's median income. This option is great if you have overwhelming debt and little disposable income.

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy (Reorganization)

Chapter 13 bankruptcy helps people who have steady income but are behind on mortgage payments, car loans, or secured debt. You repay your debts through a reorganization plan over three to five years. You can also include student loans and Tax debt.

It helps you catch up on missed payments and stop foreclosure. It also lets you combine debts into one monthly payment. We build flexible payment plans based on your income and your financial challenges.

Do You Qualify for Bankruptcy in Port Saint Lucie?

Do You Qualify for Bankruptcy in Port Saint Lucie

To file for bankruptcy, you must meet certain requirements. These depend on your income, debt levels, and recent financial history.

Chapter 7 Means Test Requirements

To file for Chapter 7, you must pass the means test. This compares your household income to Florida's median income. If your income is lower, you qualify. If it's higher, you may still pass if your disposable income is low after household expenses.

Our team reviews your credit report, pay stubs, and other financial records to calculate your eligibility. The test looks at the last six months of income. If your income has dropped, you may qualify now even if you didn’t before.

Chapter 13 Eligibility and Debt Limits

Chapter 13 is for those with regular income. It requires enough income to cover your monthly payment under the reorganization plan. There are also debt limits. If your secured debt or unsecured debt is too high, you may not qualify.

We’ll check your numbers and show you your options to pay off debt over time with a structured plan.

Credit Counseling Requirement Before Filing

Before filing, you must take a credit counseling course from an approved provider. This is required under bankruptcy law. The course is short and can often be completed online. It helps you understand your choices and whether debt adjustment is possible.

Your bankruptcy lawyer will make sure this is done properly and on time before your bankruptcy filing.

What to Expect When Working With a Port Saint Lucie Bankruptcy Lawyer

Here’s what our clients can expect when working with us on a bankruptcy case.

Free Initial Consultation to Review Your Financial Situation

We start with a free call or meeting. During this time, we review your income, debts, and goals. We also explain how the bankruptcy process works and what you might qualify for.

Our goal is to help you understand your choices clearly and give you honest answers. There is no pressure, just facts, and options.

Customized Legal Strategy Based on Your Goals

No two cases are the same. We create a custom strategy based on your financial issues, property, and what outcome you want. Whether you want to stop creditor harassment, protect your home, or wipe out unsecured debts, we build the plan around you.

This includes options like Chapter 7, Chapter 13, or other legal guidance based on your case.

Preparation and Filing of All Bankruptcy Documents

We handle all paperwork and file your bankruptcy petition with the court. This includes gathering financial records, listing your type of bankruptcy, and meeting deadlines. We ensure full compliance with bankruptcy courts and local procedures in Palm Beach, West Palm Beach, and Port St. Lucie.

Representation at Hearings and 341 Meeting of Creditors

We represent you at every required hearing. The most important is the 341 meeting of creditors. This is where the bankruptcy trustee asks questions about your case. You must attend, but we’ll be there with you. If any other issues arise, we’ll handle them and update you throughout the case.

Life After Bankruptcy – What Comes Next?

Life After Bankruptcy – What Comes Next

Many clients ask, "What happens after bankruptcy?" Here's what to expect after your case is complete.

Rebuilding Your Credit Score

Bankruptcy may hurt your score at first. But once debts are gone, you can start rebuilding. Pay bills on time. Keep balances low on any new credit cards. Check your credit report for accuracy. Many people see improvement within a year.

Getting Approved for Loans or Mortgages in the Future

You can still get approved for credit after bankruptcy. It takes time and smart choices. Some lenders offer secured credit cards or loans for people with recent bankruptcies. In time, with a clean record, you can qualify for car loans or even a mortgage.

Avoiding Common Debt Traps Moving Forward

No Emergency Fund: Save a small amount each month to cover surprises.

Overspending: Stick to a budget to avoid new debt.

High-Interest Credit Cards: Avoid cards with high rates or hidden fees.

Co-signing Loans: Don’t risk your credit for someone else.

Missed Payments: Set reminders or use auto-pay.

FAQs

Fees vary. We offer flexible payment plans and discuss all costs in your first meeting.

Yes, but it's risky. Mistakes can lead to dismissal. A lawyer improves your chances of success.

Not always. Many clients keep their property using bankruptcy exemptions.

Chapter 7 stays for 10 years. Chapter 13 stays for 7. You can still rebuild credit during that time.

Most unsecured debts like credit cards and personal loans are included. Some Tax debt and student loans may not be.

Contact Our Port Saint Lucie Bankruptcy Lawyer for a Free Case Consultation

Contact Our Port Saint Lucie Bankruptcy Lawyer for a Free Case Consultation

If you're facing debt and need a way out, we can help. Fleysher Law Bankruptcy and Debt Attorneys has helped many clients across Port St. Lucie, Palm Beach, and the Treasure Coast.

We offer compassionate guidance and legal support throughout the bankruptcy process. Whether you're dealing with credit card debt, student loans, or business bankruptcy relief, our team can help.

Call today for your free consultation. We’ll go over your financial situation, your options, and the next best steps. Our goal is to get you lasting financial relief and help you move forward with confidence.

Let a dedicated bankruptcy attorney fight for your peace of mind.

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Read more of our client testimonials here.

Areas We Serve:

Port St. Lucie, Fort Pierce,Lakewood Park, Indian River Estates, Fort Pierce North, River Park, White City, Fort Pierce South, St. Lucie Village, and surrounding areas.

Emil Fleysher
Bankruptcy & Debt Lawyer

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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