Practice area
Bankruptcy
A path back to financial stability.
Overview
Bankruptcy is a federal legal proceeding that gives individuals and businesses a structured way out of unmanageable debt. The moment a case is filed, an automatic stay stops creditor collection actions — calls, lawsuits, wage garnishment, and bank levies — and a federal judge ultimately discharges qualifying debts.
Martin Law Firm has handled bankruptcy cases for Southwest Florida residents since the firm's founding. We file Chapter 7 (liquidation) and Chapter 13 (reorganization) cases for individuals and families, and Chapter 11 cases for business owners and high-debt individuals who need to restructure rather than discharge.
What we handle
- Chapter 7 — discharge of unsecured debts in roughly four to six months
- Chapter 13 — three-to-five-year repayment plan that protects your home, car, and other assets
- Chapter 11 — business reorganization that allows continued operation while debt is restructured
- Foreclosure defense and mortgage modification
- Wage garnishment defense
- Florida homestead exemption analysis
Frequently asked questions
How long does Chapter 7 take?
Most Chapter 7 cases run four to six months from filing to discharge.
Will I lose my house?
Florida's homestead exemption is among the most protective in the country. In most cases — and especially if you keep current on the mortgage — your primary residence is protected.
Can I file Chapter 13 to stop a foreclosure?
Yes. Chapter 13 lets you cure mortgage arrears over three to five years while staying in the home.
What does it cost?
We provide a written engagement agreement that lays out fees and the court filing cost before you commit. Many clients find the cost recovers itself within months once collection actions stop.