Tag: bankruptcy attorney

How Much Does Filing for Bankruptcy in St. Petersburg Cost?

Debtors who are considering filing for bankruptcy in St. Petersburg area already facing financial concerns, and may be worried about how much the process will cost. There are various application and administrative fees necessary if you want to pursue chapter 7 or chapter 13 bankruptcy. These expenses may include credit counseling, debt management education, professional assistance, filing fees, and procedural expenses.

Mandatory Pre-Filing Credit Counseling

Before filing for bankruptcy in St. Petersburg, you have to attend mandatory pre-filing credit counseling. After completing your session, which usually lasts about 90 minutes and often can be done online or via phone, you will receive a certificate. If you file with a spouse, you must both obtain a separate certificate, but you can attend the same session. The fees for credit counseling sessions average about $50 to $75, but this can vary. It is possible to get a fee waiver or reduction before attending. The credit counselor must be court-approved, so check with the court before enrolling.

Preparation and Application Assembly Costs

When filing for bankruptcy in St. Petersburg, you will have to fill out many forms that provide details regarding your income, debts, assets, expenses, collateral, and more. Printing and completing this paperwork, which can amount to around 50 pages of forms, can cost about $30 if you do it yourself. However, because bankruptcy rules are so rigid, any mistakes can set you back, so many people choose to hire an attorney for assistance. This will increase your expenses, but it is worth it for the peace of mind and professional help.

Filing for Bankruptcy with the Bankruptcy Court

The fees for chapter 7 and chapter 13 differ. Chapter 7 fees include a $245 filing fee, a $46 admin charge, and a $15 trustee surcharge, equaling $306. Chapter 13 fees include a $235 filing fee and a $46 admin charge, adding up to $281.

Compulsory Debt Management Education

After filing for bankruptcy in St. Petersburg, before you can receive the discharge paper that declares you free of your debts, you have to complete a debt management course. The purpose of this course is to help debtors learn how to manage their finances and to hopefully help them avoid ending up in bankruptcy court again in the future. Check to see if you qualify for fee waivers or reductions, which can eliminate this additional cost.

Contact Berkowitz & Myer When Filing for Bankruptcy in St. Petersburg

Filing for bankruptcy in St. Petersburg can cost thousands of dollars with added fees and expenses. To make sure that you are organized, on time, and prepared, trust an attorney at Berkowitz & Myer for assistance. Call us today at (727) 344-0123 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.

How Much Does Filing for Bankruptcy in St. Petersburg Cost?

Debtors who are considering filing for bankruptcy in St. Petersburg area already facing financial concerns, and may be worried about how much the process will cost. There are various application and administrative fees necessary if you want to pursue chapter 7 or chapter 13 bankruptcy. These expenses may include credit counseling, debt management education, professional assistance, filing fees, and procedural expenses.

Mandatory Pre-Filing Credit Counseling

Before filing for bankruptcy in St. Petersburg, you have to attend mandatory pre-filing credit counseling. After completing your session, which usually lasts about 90 minutes and often can be done online or via phone, you will receive a certificate. If you file with a spouse, you must both obtain a separate certificate, but you can attend the same session. The fees for credit counseling sessions average about $50 to $75, but this can vary. It is possible to get a fee waiver or reduction before attending. The credit counselor must be court-approved, so check with the court before enrolling.

Preparation and Application Assembly Costs

When filing for bankruptcy in St. Petersburg, you will have to fill out many forms that provide details regarding your income, debts, assets, expenses, collateral, and more. Printing and completing this paperwork, which can amount to around 50 pages of forms, can cost about $30 if you do it yourself. However, because bankruptcy rules are so rigid, any mistakes can set you back, so many people choose to hire an attorney for assistance. This will increase your expenses, but it is worth it for the peace of mind and professional help.

Filing for Bankruptcy with the Bankruptcy Court

The fees for chapter 7 and chapter 13 differ. Chapter 7 fees include a $245 filing fee, a $46 admin charge, and a $15 trustee surcharge, equaling $306. Chapter 13 fees include a $235 filing fee and a $46 admin charge, adding up to $281.

Compulsory Debt Management Education

After filing for bankruptcy in St. Petersburg, before you can receive the discharge paper that declares you free of your debts, you have to complete a debt management course. The purpose of this course is to help debtors learn how to manage their finances and to hopefully help them avoid ending up in bankruptcy court again in the future. Check to see if you qualify for fee waivers or reductions, which can eliminate this additional cost.

Contact Berkowitz & Myer When Filing for Bankruptcy in St. Petersburg

Filing for bankruptcy in St. Petersburg can cost thousands of dollars with added fees and expenses. To make sure that you are organized, on time, and prepared, trust an attorney at Berkowitz & Myer for assistance. Call us today at (727) 344-0123 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation

How Bankruptcy Attorneys Can Help When You’re in Debt

Improving your financial situation sometimes means declaring yourself bankrupt. Bankruptcy attorneys afford clients better protection and informed guidance when it comes to filing. If you live in the St. Petersburg area, you can get the support and information you need with the help of Berkowitz & Myer. Our law firm acts as a singular point of contact, simplifying the process and ensuring that your case is manageable for your situation. With one point of contact, it is easier for you to communicate and voice your needs during this difficult time.

Berkowitz & Myer also provide clients with additional options and support while a client declares themselves bankrupt. Proper planning beforehand helps to avoid issues like agreeing to a payment plan you cannot fulfill. Business owners and individuals filing under chapter 13 or 7 can simplify the process by relying on experienced legal professionals for assistance. The right lawyer is essential to ensuring your case does not draw out for months without approval.

Which Bankruptcy Chapter Filing is Best for you?

A significant advantage of bankruptcy attorneys is that they can explain the differences between chapter 7 and chapter 13. Depending on your situation, there can be advantages and disadvantages for each chapter. Though some advice recommends filing when your debt surpasses your income, there are easier resolutions for smaller deficits. When the situation becomes too much to catch up to or mediate with collectors, you should you consider liquidation or other options. St. Petersburg residents can file promptly, therefore ridding themselves of aggressive collectors and harassment.

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy

If you are seeking a quicker resolution, then chapter 7 may be more advantageous. The process is typically more rapid and can completely resolve within months. You will not need to create a long-term repayment plan. This allows you to avoid additional steps like going to court to approve your plan. Bankruptcy attorneys in St. Petersburg can also help clients understand requirements to proceed with their case.

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy

The second option is to undergo chapter 13 bankruptcy. If you require more time to repay debts, then chapter 13 is often preferable. It halts the ability of creditors to engage in collection tactics or legal action against you. St. Petersburg residents can then construct a repayment plan that better suits their financial limitations. Berkowitz & Myer also provide clients with creditor harassment services to protect their rights as consumers.

Talk to the Bankruptcy Attorneys at Berkowitz & Myer Today

With professional guidance from our bankruptcy attorneys, clients may be able to avoid losing their home or vehicle. A lawyer can help you decide which chapter filing is most beneficial for you. You can contact Berkowitz & Myer today online or by calling (727) 344-0123.

Top 3 Reasons to Hire Accident Lawyers After a Crash

If you are in an accident in St. Petersburg, do not wait to seek help. The accident lawyers at Berkowitz & Myer can help you with the legal complexities. The time following a car crash is often characterized as very stressful and overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Hiring legal aid can alleviate a lot of the pressure placed on you and let you focus on recovery. It is especially vital to hire an attorney if you received an injury in the incident. In that case, your lawyer can help you sort all the necessary paperwork intended to help you recover compensation. Do not allow a collision to disrupt your life; instead, call us for help.

1. A Lawyer Ensures You Know Your Rights

You might not be aware of everything you are legally entitled to after an incident like a car crash, but that’s what accident lawyers are for. Your legal team consists of professionals who have dealt with numerous auto accident cases in St. Petersburg. Our experience makes us better attorneys because we know what elements make up a successful case. During your consultation, your attorney can give you an idea of what to expect and can help you determine how much you may be entitled to in reparations. Considering all the factors and possible outcomes help make a successful attorney.

2. Attorneys Provide Experienced Representation

Many people in St. Petersburg are not familiar with the inner workings of the legal system. Without experience, you may be nervous or unsure about what to expect and how to act. Our accident lawyers are veterans of the courtroom, and we work our hardest to defend our client’s interests and desired outcomes. Injury victims have a lot to focus on after a collision (including medical appointments, property damage, insurance claims, and more), and do not have the time and energy to devote to preparing for court appointments. Our attorneys may be able to help you recover the compensation you deserve while easing your burden.

3. Your Lawyer Can Offer You Professional Assistance

Aside from the emotional stress and physical injuries, paperwork can be one of the most significant sources of frustration after a crash. There are insurance forms, medical forms, medical bills, and any legal paperwork, which all needs to be filed correctly and on time. Unless you have filled them out before, you may accidentally forget a deadline or fill something out incorrectly. Your attorney can offer their professional experience to guide you in filing everything necessary so that you don’t have to stress over it. Our accident lawyers in St. Petersburg are here to help you in any way we can.

Choose Berkowitz & Myer’s Accident Lawyers in St. Petersburg

If you have been in an accident in St. Petersburg, you may benefit significantly from legal counsel. The accident lawyers at Berkowitz & Myer are here to help you with every step of the process. Get in touch to schedule a consultation by calling our office at (727) 344-0123 or leaving a message on our website.

Bankruptcy: Important Things to Know About Chapters 7 and 13

Bankruptcy may be intimidating for those who are not familiar with the process. But with the help of a bankruptcy attorney in St. Petersburg, you can manage your debt and get back on the right foot. People who pursue bankruptcy often do so because filing can:

  • Protect your home from foreclosure
  • Stop debt collection attempts
  • Prevent utility companies from cutting off power and water
  • Give you more time to readjust your debts

Chapter 7 discharges your debt, but this does not include student loan debt. There are unique circumstances that exist for student loan debt, but largely, you are responsible for paying it off. If the debtor or their dependents are under undue hardship, they may be able to seek a discharge for their student loan debt.

Whether you file for chapter 7 or 13, you must fill out and complete all necessary forms. Everyone who files for bankruptcy must complete the necessary forms for the federal government, which may include:

  • Voluntary Petition for Individuals Filing for Bankruptcy
  • Summary of Your Assets and Liabilities and Certain Statistical Information
  • Statement of Current Monthly Income
  • Chapter 7 Means Test Calculation
  • Chapter 13 Calculation of Your Disposable Income

Florida Bankruptcy

In Florida, residents cannot use federal exemptions, and must instead use the state’s exemptions. Potential exemptions may include:

  • Homestead exemptions
  • Certain personal property up to $1,000
  • Up to $1,000 in motor vehicle equity
  • Up to $4,000 in personal property if not using the homestead exemption
  • Certain pension and retirement funds like 401ks and Simple IRAs

Your St. Petersburg bankruptcy attorney can go over the various exemptions available and help you determine which ones are applicable to your situation.

What You Need to Know When Filing for Bankruptcy

When you file, you must submit a repayment plan detailing your debts like child support, vehicle loans, mortgages, and tax liens and how you plan to repay them. A bankruptcy attorney in St. Petersburg can help you devise a plan that allows you to comfortably pay your debts. Unsecured debts, like medical bills and credit cards, must be less than $336,900 and secured debt, like mortgages, must be less than $1,010,650.

Filing for bankruptcy will leave a lasting impact on your credit; it will stay on your record for ten years. This can influence your ability to loan a car, rent a home, get a credit card, and more.

To speak with a bankruptcy attorney in the St. Petersburg area, trust Berkowitz & Myer. Call us today at (727) 344-0123 or contact us online to schedule a no-cost consultation.

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