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 am very pleased with the level of service I received from Ben and Ashlee at Haynes Law Group. From the moment I walked into the office Ashlee was very warm and accommodating -- even though I returned the favor by spilling a bit of water on the floor. They promptly cleaned it up and we continued with the consultation. I am very observant and pay attention to the little things. I did not notice a hint of irritation or annoyance over the accidental spill. Their timely responses and caring attitude made going through a difficult time that much easier. There was even an instance where I sent an email to the office after "normal" business hours -- expecting a response first thing in the morning. To my surprise and within minutes, the response to my email was waiting in my inbox. I just wanted to thank Ben and Ashlee for being so gracious and supportive and I would absolutely recommend Haynes Law Group to friends and family.R.W.
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Haynes Law Group helped us litigate through the foreclosure surplus process. There were several liens against my property. However, Haynes Law Group filed various motions that eventually ended up allowing us to collect the excess proceeds from the court. Without Haynes Law Group, we most likely would not have collected a single penny! If you are facing foreclosure or want help collecting on a foreclosure surplus, hire the law firm of Haynes Law Group!A.H.
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I was introduced Attorney Benjamin Haynes via a mutual acquaintance because I was in the middle of a trademarking process with another firm and it wasn't going well. Upon review of my application, Mr. Haynes immediately spotted some problem areas. Within a matter of weeks, he had everything resolved and approved by the USPTO. I can highly recommend this firm.L.H.
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Mr. Haynes helped me recover over $100,000.00 in foreclosure surplus funds in Florida. He took care of everything from start to finish and won my case! If you have any surplus funds from a foreclosure in Florida, call Mr. Haynes if you want someone who will fight for you!T.S.
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I have nothing but GREAT things to say about Ben Haynes and his law firm Haynes and De Paz! I retained Mr. Haynes' services from reading the excellent reviews left by previous clients... and it was the absolute BEST decision my family and I made! Not only was he and his firm able to WIN ALL of the surplus money for us, but he was also able to WIN the case in such a short time!! His expertise should not be doubted. My family and I are more than satisfied with the outcome! A million thank-yous will never be enough, but I must say THANK-YOU! An awesome job well done!!J.C.
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