Affordable Bankruptcy Services in Clearwater, FL for Debt Relief

Joshua Bethea Attorney at Law provides Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy services in Clearwater, FL, with some of the lowest attorney rates in Florida and flexible payment plans to help individuals and families stop creditor harassment and regain financial stability.

Filing for bankruptcy triggers an automatic stay that immediately stops most collection calls, wage garnishments, and foreclosure actions.

When you file, the court issues an order that legally prevents creditors from contacting you or pursuing collection activities. This protection begins the moment your petition is filed and remains in effect throughout the bankruptcy process.

The automatic stay gives you breathing room to reorganize your finances or discharge eligible debts without constant pressure. It applies to phone calls, lawsuits, repossession attempts, and utility shutoffs in most cases.

Chapter 7 discharges most unsecured debts in three to four months, while Chapter 13 creates a three-to-five-year repayment plan for managing debts you want to keep.

Chapter 7 is often called liquidation bankruptcy because non-exempt assets may be sold to pay creditors, though most filers lose nothing. It works well for individuals with limited income and significant unsecured debt like credit cards or medical bills.

Chapter 13 allows you to keep property such as your home or car while catching up on missed payments over time. It requires a steady income and court approval of your repayment plan. Both options can provide relief, but eligibility depends on your financial situation.

If you are exploring bankruptcy services in Clearwater, FL , understanding which chapter fits your circumstances is the first step toward financial recovery.

Bankruptcy does appear on your credit report for seven to ten years, but many clients begin rebuilding credit within months of discharge.

While your credit score may drop initially, removing overwhelming debt often improves your debt-to-income ratio and makes it easier to manage future obligations responsibly. Secured credit cards, timely bill payments, and small installment loans can help rebuild your score over time.

The impact of bankruptcy on credit is temporary compared to the long-term consequences of unmanageable debt, ongoing late payments, or judgments. Many clients find that the fresh start outweighs the short-term effects on their credit profile.

Florida's homestead exemption allows you to protect unlimited equity in your primary residence during bankruptcy, provided the property meets size and use requirements.

Clearwater homeowners benefit from this broad protection, which covers single-family homes, condos, and mobile homes on owned land. The exemption applies to properties up to half an acre within city limits or 160 acres in rural areas.

This exemption means most Clearwater residents can file Chapter 7 without losing their home, even if they have significant equity. In Chapter 13, the exemption reduces the amount you must repay to unsecured creditors. Understanding how local property laws interact with federal bankruptcy code is essential for protecting your assets.

Joshua Bethea Attorney at Law helps individuals and families across Pinellas County navigate debt relief options with practical guidance and affordable representation. Whether you need to stop foreclosure, eliminate credit card debt, or protect your home, our firm provides clear answers and straightforward service.

Discover how criminal defense services in Clearwater, FL and other legal solutions can support your future. Connect with Joshua Bethea Attorney at Law today at 727-337-7447 to schedule your free consultation and explore your options for financial stability.