Plantation Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Attorney

Last updated on June 5, 2025

Because our bankruptcy attorneys have more than 20 years of combined experience, they have seen firsthand the type of financial challenges that people across South Florida face. That is why they focus on helping you regain control of your future through Chapter 13 bankruptcy.

At Light & Gonzalez, PLLC, our Plantation Chapter 13 bankruptcy attorneys give their attention to you. They take the time to explain your options and educate you on your rights so that you can make the best decisions for you and your family. Several of the team members speak Spanish and try to answer your calls personally.

Understanding How Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Works

Chapter 13 bankruptcy helps people with steady income reorganize their debts and create a plan to repay them gradually. This plan typically lasts three to five years. It empowers you to keep your assets as you work to repay your debts. To qualify, your unsecured and secured debts must fall within certain limits set by federal law.

Filing for Chapter 13 involves proposing a repayment plan to the court, which a bankruptcy judge must approve. The plan outlines how you will pay off your debts using your disposable income. Having a Plantation Chapter 13 bankruptcy lawyer is crucial for navigating the complexities of the process and ensuring your plan is feasible and fair.

Is Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Right For Me?

Chapter 13 bankruptcy might be right if you have a regular income but struggle to meet your debt obligations. It can help you avoid foreclosure on your home and protect other valuable assets. Our team of bankruptcy lawyers can help you explore all available options before deciding on Chapter 13. These may involve renegotiating your debt or pursuing an unfair debt collection lawsuit. Our goal is to provide a comprehensive solution tailored to your financial needs.

How Do I Know If I Am Eligible For Chapter 13 Bankruptcy In Florida?

To determine if you are eligible for Chapter 13 bankruptcy in Florida, you must meet specific requirements:

• Have a regular income: You need a steady income, which can come from wages, Social Security, pensions or other reliable sources.
• Meet debt limits: Your unsecured debts must be under $394,725 and your secured debts must be under $1,184,200. (These limits may change, so check the latest figures.)
• Be an individual or married couple: Only individuals or married couples filing jointly can file for Chapter 13.
• Pass the bankruptcy history check: You cannot have received a discharge in a Chapter 7 bankruptcy within the last four years or in a Chapter 13 bankruptcy within the previous two years.
• Be current on taxes: You must have filed federal tax returns for the past four years.
• Have enough disposable income: To set up a repayment plan, you’ll need some extra income to cover at least part of your unsecured debts.

If you meet these requirements, you may be eligible to file for Chapter 13 bankruptcy in Florida.

What Is The Process For Filing Chapter 13 Bankruptcy In Florida?

Filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy in Florida involves several key steps:

1. Complete credit counseling: You must take a credit counseling course from an approved agency before filing.
2. File the petition: Submit your bankruptcy petition to the court, including details of your assets, liabilities, income and expenses.
3. Automatic stay begins: Once filed, an automatic stay stops most collection actions, such as wage garnishment or foreclosure.
4. Propose a repayment plan: You must submit a repayment plan outlining how to repay your debts over three to five years.
5. Attend the creditors’ meeting: About a month after filing, you meet with the trustee and creditors to answer questions about your finances.
6. Confirm the plan: If your repayment plan meets legal requirements, the court will review and approve it.
7. Make payments: You make regular payments to the trustee, who distributes them to your creditors.
8. Receive a discharge: After completing your plan, the court discharges any remaining unsecured debts.

A bankruptcy lawyer can help ensure you correctly complete each step and protect your rights throughout the process.

What Assistance Can A South Florida Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Lawyer Provide?

A South Florida Chapter 13 bankruptcy lawyer can support your bankruptcy journey. Here’s how they can help:

• Assess your options: They can evaluate your financial situation to determine if Chapter 13 is the best choice or if other debt relief options might be more suitable.
• Handle paperwork: Bankruptcy requires extensive documentation. A lawyer ensures all forms are accurate and filed on time.
• Create a repayment plan: They help design a realistic plan for you and meet court requirements.
• Represent you in court: A lawyer attends hearings and meetings on your behalf, answering questions and protecting your interests.
• Negotiate with creditors: They can work with creditors to reduce interest rates, waive fees or adjust payment terms.
• Protect your assets: A lawyer helps structure your plan to safeguard your home, car and other valuables.
• Address complex issues: A lawyer can navigate these challenges if your case involves tax debts or other complications.
• Offer peace of mind: With a lawyer handling your case, you can focus on rebuilding your financial future.

A South Florida Chapter 13 bankruptcy lawyer increases your chances of a successful outcome and protects your rights.

Learn More From A Plantation Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Lawyer

We are passionate about your future. Get the experience, advocacy and compassion you need at Light & Gonzalez, PLLC. Contact us at 754-778-9911 or email us to schedule a consultation.

We are a debt relief agency. We help people file for bankruptcy relief under the Bankruptcy Code.