Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Attorneys in Florida – Martin Law Firm
Regain Financial Control with Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
Are you struggling with overwhelming debt, missed mortgage payments, or the threat of foreclosure? Chapter 13 bankruptcy may be the solution you need to restructure your debt and regain financial stability. At Martin Law Firm, we help individuals and families in Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Naples, Lehigh Acres, and surrounding communities create a repayment plan that allows them to keep their assets while becoming debt-free.
Unlike Chapter 7 bankruptcy, which eliminates most debts outright, Chapter 13 allows you to repay your debts over time, often with lower monthly payments. If you have a steady income and want to protect your home, car, and other valuable assets, Chapter 13 may be the right option for you.
What is Chapter 13 Bankruptcy?
Chapter 13 bankruptcy, also known as a wage earner’s plan, allows individuals with regular income to restructure their debts into a manageable 3-5 year repayment plan. This allows you to:
✔️ Stop foreclosure and catch up on missed mortgage payments
✔️ Prevent vehicle repossession
✔️ Consolidate debts into a single monthly payment
✔️ Reduce or eliminate interest on some debts
✔️ Keep your home, car, and other assets
At the end of your repayment period, remaining unsecured debts (such as credit cards and medical bills) may be discharged, meaning you are no longer legally responsible for them.
Benefits of Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
Filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy in Florida provides powerful legal protections and financial benefits:
🚫 Stops foreclosure and repossession – Gives you time to catch up on mortgage and car loan payments.
🚫 Halts creditor harassment – Once you file, an automatic stay prevents creditors from calling, suing, or garnishing your wages.
🚫 Reduces overall debt – Some debts may be discharged or significantly reduced at the end of the repayment period.
🚫 Protects co-signers – Chapter 13 offers co-debtor protection, helping protect family members and loved ones.
🚫 Provides a structured repayment plan – Instead of dealing with multiple creditors, you’ll make one affordable monthly payment.
Unlike Chapter 7, which requires liquidation of non-exempt assets, Chapter 13 allows you to keep your property while making payments on your debt.
Who Qualifies for Chapter 13 Bankruptcy in Florida?
To file for Chapter 13 bankruptcy in Florida, you must meet certain requirements:
✅ Steady Income – You must have regular income from employment, self-employment, Social Security, or other sources.
✅ Debt Limits – Your secured (e.g., mortgages, car loans) and unsecured (e.g., credit cards, medical bills) debts must fall within limits set by bankruptcy law.
✅ Ability to Make Payments – You must have enough disposable income to cover living expenses and make Chapter 13 plan payments.
If you do not qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy due to income limitations, Chapter 13 may be a better option. Our experienced Florida bankruptcy attorneys will evaluate your situation and determine the best path forward.
Florida Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Repayment Plans
Chapter 13 allows you to consolidate your debts into a single monthly payment based on your income, expenses, and debt amount. The plan lasts 3 to 5 years and typically prioritizes:
🔹 Secured Debts – Mortgage and car loan arrears can be paid over time to prevent foreclosure or repossession.
🔹 Priority Debts – Certain debts, such as tax obligations and child support, must be repaid in full.
🔹 Unsecured Debts – Credit card debt, medical bills, and personal loans may be reduced or discharged completely.
At Martin Law Firm, we create a customized Chapter 13 repayment plan tailored to your financial situation, ensuring affordable payments while maximizing debt relief.
Chapter 13 vs. Chapter 7 – Which is Right for You?
Choosing between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy depends on your income, assets, and financial goals.
Feature | Chapter 7 | Chapter 13 |
---|---|---|
Debt elimination | Yes | Partial (some debts must be repaid) |
Time to complete | 4-6 months | 3-5 years |
Asset protection | Limited | Keeps home, car, and other assets |
Stops foreclosure | Temporarily | Yes, allows repayment |
Requires steady income | No | Yes |
If you want to eliminate debt quickly and qualify under the Chapter 7 means test, liquidation bankruptcy may be a better option. However, if you need to protect valuable assets or catch up on missed payments, Chapter 13 is the better choice.
The Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Process in Florida
At Martin Law Firm, we guide you through every step of the Chapter 13 bankruptcy process:
1. Free Bankruptcy Consultation
We review your financial situation and determine whether Chapter 13 is the best option for you.
2. Filing Your Bankruptcy Petition
Once we file your case with the Middle District of Florida Bankruptcy Court, the automatic stay immediately stops creditor collection efforts.
3. Creating a Repayment Plan
We develop a feasible 3-5 year payment plan based on your income and debt obligations.
4. Meeting with the Bankruptcy Trustee (341 Meeting)
You’ll attend a brief meeting with the bankruptcy trustee, where they review your plan. Our attorneys prepare you for this step.
5. Court Approval of Your Repayment Plan
Once approved, you begin making monthly payments to the trustee, who distributes funds to creditors.
6. Debt Discharge
After successfully completing your plan, any remaining eligible debts are wiped out, giving you financial freedom.
Why Choose Martin Law Firm for Your Chapter 13 Bankruptcy?
🔷 Experienced Florida Bankruptcy Attorneys – We have helped clients in Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Naples, Lehigh Acres, and beyond restructure their debts and achieve financial stability.
🔷 Customized Repayment Plans – We tailor each Chapter 13 plan to fit your unique financial situation.
🔷 Affordable Legal Fees & Payment Plans – We offer reasonable rates and flexible payment options so you can get the help you need.
🔷 Immediate Protection from Creditors – Filing for Chapter 13 stops lawsuits, foreclosures, and wage garnishments instantly.
🔷 Proven Track Record of Success – Our clients successfully complete their repayment plans and eliminate debt.
Take Control of Your Debt – Contact Martin Law Firm Today
If you’re struggling with mounting debt, foreclosure, or financial stress, filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy may be the best step toward financial freedom. Our experienced Florida bankruptcy attorneys are ready to help you protect your assets and create a manageable repayment plan.
📍 Serving Clients in:
- Cape Coral
- Fort Myers
- Naples
- Lehigh Acres
- And surrounding areas in the Middle District of Florida
📞 Call for a Free Consultation
Don’t let debt control your life. Contact Martin Law Firm today and take the first step toward a brighter financial future!