Bankruptcy Attorneys in Orlando
Is Filing for Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Right for You?
Financial trouble can happen to anyone—medical emergencies, job loss, or unexpected expenses sometimes make keeping up with bills impossible. Understanding bankruptcy is the first step if you’re exploring options for a fresh start.
Haynes Law Group guides you through this process, explaining your options and ensuring you have the information and support to determine your best path forward. Our experience with Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy filings in Orlando helps individuals and families make informed decisions and take the next step toward regaining financial stability.
How Haynes Law Group Helps Orlando Residents
With extensive experience handling foreclosures, loan modifications, and deed-in-lieu transactions throughout Florida, Haynes Law Group effectively guides clients facing serious financial distress. This broad expertise allows us to offer holistic support, especially when foreclosure or default prompts considerations about bankruptcy. Our team’s deep knowledge helps individuals and families in Orlando explore every available option—whether defending against foreclosure, negotiating a loan modification, or choosing bankruptcy as a path toward a new financial start.
We help make the bankruptcy process more manageable by clearly explaining each step, ensuring documents are complete, and remaining available for questions from the initial consultation through resolution. This client-focused approach empowers individuals to make informed decisions about how best to protect their homes, finances, and futures.
Call (888) 252-8754 to learn more about bankruptcy and start the process today.
Understanding Chapter 7 & Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
Chapter 7 bankruptcy, often called "liquidation bankruptcy," provides the fastest path to discharge eligible debts. In Orlando and across Florida, Chapter 7 may be considered if monthly income falls below a set threshold after accounting for certain expenses.
Key points about Chapter 7 include:
- Most unsecured debts, such as credit cards and medical bills, can be eliminated.
- Some personal property may be sold (liquidated) to help pay creditors, but Florida’s exemptions allow many to keep their car, retirement accounts, and part of their home equity.
- You must pass a "means test" based on income and household size to qualify.
- Most cases finish in four to six months.
People often consider Chapter 7 to quickly eliminate overwhelming debt, stop collections, and begin rebuilding credit. It’s best for those with limited income and few valuable assets.
Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
Chapter 13 bankruptcy is designed for those with regular income who want to keep their property while catching up on mortgage, car loans, or back taxes.
Key points about Chapter 13:
- Debtors follow a court-approved repayment plan, usually lasting three to five years.
- No property is sold; instead, monthly payments are made to a trustee who forwards them to creditors.
- This plan can help people stop a foreclosure, catch up on arrears, and pay back tax debt over time.
- After completing payments, most remaining eligible debts are discharged.
Those who don’t qualify for Chapter 7 often choose this option, want to keep their home, or have debts that can’t be erased through Chapter 7 (like certain taxes or child support).
Should You File for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 Bankruptcy?
Deciding whether bankruptcy is the right path involves careful thought.
Consider these factors:
- Type of Debt – Medical bills, credit cards, utilities, and payday loans are commonly discharged; student loans and some tax debts rarely are.
- Income and Assets – Qualifying for Chapter 7 depends on your income and what you own; Chapter 13 works for those with steady paychecks who need a structured repayment plan.
- Property Protection – Chapter 13 is often preferred by those wishing to safeguard high-value assets from liquidation.
- Long-Term Goals – Think about how each type impacts your ability to rebuild credit, keep your home, or protect vehicles and retirement accounts.
Take Your Next Steps with Haynes Law Group by Your Side
If you are struggling with debt in Orlando, FL, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. Speaking with a knowledgeable bankruptcy attorney can help determine which path fits your situation. Our team at Haynes Law Group listens carefully, explains all your legal options, and walks you through every stage of the process.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation.
Our Clients Share Their Stories
At Haynes Law Group, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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I would like to thank Haynes and De Paz for assisting me with a foreclosure. This was a long and arduous process for me, but they stuck with it and were able to secure a successful settlement. I appreciate all their hard work and would recommend them if you find yourself in the same situation.S.P.
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Haynes Law Group are great, I highly recommend them! Mr. Haynes personally walked myself and my siblings through our case every step of the way. His staff are also amazing, they answered any questions or concerns promptly and accurately. Excellent practice from top to bottom, thanks again!E.I.
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Ben, You and your team saved me from foreclosure . The idea of this ever happening to me was unfathomable . It brought me to my knees , but you turned that around for me. The referral for a real estate agent, Tonya Giddens was a blessing. She is amazing! I could not have managed this very difficult time without her. I trusted her from the very first time she spoke with me. Thank you so very much for representing me . You and your team were very responsive to me and very professional . I so appreciated that. I hope you all have a happy and prosperous new year!Cheryl Bergeron
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I came to Benjamin Haynes at a time when I had very little options regarding my foreclosure. He was very confident in what we would be able to do and it was the biggest relief to turn things over to him and let him handle things from that point on. His assistant Ashley was also very helpful in the sense that she would get back to me when she said that she would and I always knew my messages were getting to Mr. Haynes. I personally do not plan on going through this again; however, if I know someone else who is, I would definitely recommend Benjamin Haynes for their case.K.D.
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I could not be more pleased with Haynes Law Group. After two years of legal maneuvering and getting nowhere trying to negotiate with my bank, I was referred to Ben Haynes by my son. What a pleasant surprise this has been. From the prompt, courteous and personal attention I receive when contacting the firm, to the information and guidance through complicated legal matters, and disclosure of the process. I don’t think I have had a better return for my money. Thank you Haynes Law Group for giving me back what I have not had in a while; peace of mind.Roberto
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