Debt & Bankruptcy

Debt and Bankruptcy Lawyer in Florida

Debt in Florida can destabilize a person, a family, or a business. It can make moving forward with life activities or business operations challenging. You may plan. You may struggle. You may make genuine efforts to get ahead, but simply cannot. You need a fresh start or a reboot. Sometimes that means filing for bankruptcy. Other times that might mean another form of debt relief or debt reorganization. The important thing is knowing there are solutions.

At the Law Offices of Scott W. Spradley, our debt and bankruptcy lawyer in Flagler Beach tailors solutions to your specific needs. If you or your business has debt, we thoroughly review your relevant documents and your unique situation and advise accordingly. We know from experience that informed clients make the best financial decisions for themselves, their families, and/or their businesses. Contact us at 386-693-4935 to schedule a free consultation and receive smart legal counsel.

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Understanding Bankruptcy in Florida

Bankruptcy law provides individuals and businesses with a legal framework to address overwhelming debt and financial difficulties. Bankruptcy offers a fresh start by allowing debtors to eliminate or restructure their debts under the supervision of a court.

But filing for bankruptcy, whether it's for yourself or a business, is a long, tedious process that must be undertaken carefully and with relevant deadlines in mind. The law is very specific as to what must be done in order for the bankruptcy to be successful. Creditors may choose to challenge your bankruptcy so that they can uphold their rights during the bankruptcy. These challenges, however, can complicate the process.

At the Law Offices of Scott W. Spradley, we know what your rights are as well as the rights of creditors, and use this knowledge to ensure we keep the bankruptcy moving along with minimal delays, if any.

We provide representation for consumers and businesses in the following:
  • Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
  • Chapter 11 Bankruptcy
  • Chapter 12 Bankruptcy
  • Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
  • Debt Restructuring
  • Bankruptcy Litigation
Our bankruptcy legal services include but are not limited to:
  • Reviewing and analyzing your financial situation
  • Advising you on your best legal options
  • Preparing your bankruptcy paperwork
  • Filing your bankruptcy paperwork
  • Representing you at hearings
Your success at filing for bankruptcy or committing to a debt relief program is dependent on the decisions you make, so make sure they are informed decisions. Our bankruptcy team will do the due diligence, keep you informed, and help you get back on the right financial track.

Types of Bankruptcy

Several types of bankruptcy exist, and each is designed to help specific situations for both consumers and businesses.

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy

Also known as liquidation bankruptcy, Chapter 7 bankruptcy involves the sale of a debtor's non-exempt assets to repay creditors. Individuals and businesses can obtain a discharge of most debts, providing a clean financial slate. Common concerns that arise under this type of bankruptcy include understanding what happens if the debtor(s) are divorcing, own a house, own a vehicle, have student loans, and/or have a personal injury claim.

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy

Chapter 13 bankruptcy allows individuals to reorganize their debts into a manageable repayment plan lasting three to five years. Debtors can retain their assets while making affordable monthly payments to creditors. This type of bankruptcy is often preferred by individuals and sole proprietors.

Chapter 11 Bankruptcy

Chapter 11 bankruptcy is primarily designed for businesses. It allows for the reorganization and restructuring of debts to maintain operations and repay creditors over time. Chapter 11 enables the debtor to continue operating while implementing a court-approved plan.

Chapter 12 Bankruptcy

Chapter 12 bankruptcy is specifically tailored for family farmers and fishermen. Chapter 12 allows for the adjustment of debts and provides relief to financially distressed agricultural businesses.

Chapter 20 Bankruptcy

Chapter 20 bankruptcy is not a “type” of bankruptcy on its own. Rather, Chapter 20 refers to a situation where a debtor has completed a Chapter 7 bankruptcy (with discharge of debts issued) and then files a Chapter 13 bankruptcy.

Indicators That an Individual Should File Bankruptcy in Florida

Not all individuals should file for bankruptcy when they are experiencing financial difficulties. Sometimes alternatives are a better solution. If, however, any of the following situations exist, you may want to talk to our debt and bankruptcy attorney to determine the best course of action.

  • Overwhelming Debt: When debts, such as credit cards, medical bills, or personal loans, become unmanageable and exceed the individual's ability to repay, bankruptcy may be a viable solution.

  • Wage Garnishments and Collection Actions: If creditors initiate wage garnishments, lawsuits, or aggressive collection efforts, filing for bankruptcy can halt these actions and provide a fresh start.

  • Foreclosure or Repossession Threats: When facing the risk of losing a home to foreclosure or having assets repossessed, bankruptcy can invoke an automatic stay, preventing such actions and providing an opportunity to address the debt.

  • Inability to Meet Basic Living Expenses: If debts consume a significant portion of an individual's income, making it difficult to cover essential living expenses, bankruptcy may provide relief and enable financial stability.

Indicators That a Business Should File Bankruptcy

When a business is in dire financial straits, restructuring debt is often best done through bankruptcy, but not always. If any of the following situations exist, however, it is best to speak to our debt and bankruptcy attorney to determine the best legal path to save your company and put it back on track to success.

  • Cash Flow Problems: Persistent cash flow issues, including the inability to meet payroll, pay vendors, or cover operational expenses, may signal that a business should consider bankruptcy as a means of restructuring debt and stabilizing finances.

  • Mounting Debt and Creditors' Claims: When a business accumulates substantial debt and creditors aggressively pursue collection efforts, bankruptcy can provide a legal framework for debt resolution and asset protection.

  • Declining Revenues and Market Challenges: If a business experiences a significant decline in revenue, faces increased competition, or struggles to adapt to market changes, bankruptcy can provide an opportunity for reorganization and a chance for the business to regain profitability.

  • Legal Actions and Lawsuits: When facing multiple lawsuits, judgments, or enforcement actions from creditors, bankruptcy can offer protection and an opportunity to address and resolve outstanding legal claims.

Florida lawyers pointing at section of document with a pen

Alternatives to Bankruptcy in Florida

Many consumers and businesses alike do not like the idea of bankruptcy, and in many situations, bankruptcy is not necessary. Alternatives to bankruptcy exist and can prove more beneficial.

Why Choose Our Florida Law Firm

Having a debt and bankruptcy lawyer will help you identify your best course of action for financial freedom and security. At the Law Offices of Scott W. Spradley, we offer a comprehensive approach to solving your debt issues, including but not limited to helping you with:

Complex Legal Procedures

Bankruptcy involves intricate legal procedures, documentation, and court filings. Our bankruptcy lawyer will navigate these complexities, ensuring compliance with legal requirements and maximizing the benefits available under the chosen bankruptcy chapter.

Determining the Most Appropriate Chapter

Our bankruptcy lawyer will assess your unique financial circumstances and help determine the most suitable bankruptcy chapter or alternative that aligns with your goals and offers the greatest relief.

Protection of Rights and Interests

Our bankruptcy lawyer safeguards your rights, protects assets, and ensures that the debtor receives the maximum allowable exemptions under bankruptcy law.

Negotiating With Creditors

Our bankruptcy lawyer will negotiate with creditors on behalf of individuals or businesses, seeking favorable terms, reduced debts, or repayment plans.
If necessary, we will also represent you in court proceedings. We will advocate for your interests, present the case before the bankruptcy trustee or judge, and ensure fair treatment throughout the process.

Contact a Debt and Bankruptcy Attorney in Flagler Beach Today

At the Law Offices of Scott W. Spradley, our debt and bankruptcy lawyer in Florida understands that financial hardships and debt pose real problems, and the only solution in many cases is bankruptcy – though there are alternatives. Contact our office today by filling out the online form or calling us at 386-693-4935 to schedule a free consultation and to learn more about how we will help you overcome your dire financial situation.