Jacksonville Bankruptcy Lawyer
The Law Offices of Carol M. Galloway represents debtors, employees and individuals facing financial hardship throughout Northeast Florida and Central Florida. With decades of experience navigating federal bankruptcy law and Florida-specific debt relief statutes, Attorney Galloway provides strategic counsel to help clients regain financial stability, protect their assets and move forward with confidence.
Call us today at 904-694-5489 for a free consultation with a dedicated Jacksonville bankruptcy lawyer. Hiring a legal advocate puts someone in your corner to fight for your rights. At the Law Offices of Carol M. Galloway, you will find an experienced and knowledgeable attorney who takes the time to listen to you and respond to your specific needs. Clients of the firm value the high level of communication, availability and accessibility they receive from their lawyer. Attorney Carol M. Galloway tells you what you need to know and stands by your side every step of the way, so you can be confident the right moves are being taken to meet your particular legal needs.
Why Choose the Law Offices of Carol M. Galloway
Choosing the right bankruptcy attorney in Jacksonville can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Attorney Carol M. Galloway brings a deep understanding of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code, the Middle District of Florida’s local rules and the specific exemptions available under Florida law. The firm combines thorough legal knowledge with a client-centered approach, delivering dependable representation that addresses each individual’s circumstances. Clients appreciate the firm’s responsiveness, honest guidance and follow-through from initial consultation to case resolution.
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Attorney in Jacksonville, Florida
Chapter 7 bankruptcy, sometimes referred to as liquidation bankruptcy, allows qualifying individuals to eliminate most unsecured debts and obtain a fresh financial start. For people facing unmanageable credit card balances, medical bills, personal loans or utility debts, Chapter 7 can provide significant relief, often within three to four months of filing.
To qualify for Chapter 7 in Florida, filers must pass the means test, which evaluates income relative to the Florida median for their household size. Filers who qualify can discharge eligible debts while retaining exempt property under Florida’s generous homestead exemption and other applicable bankruptcy exemptions.
Not everyone can or should file under Chapter 7. People who are behind on mortgage or car payments, or individuals struggling with secured debts, might be better served by a different approach. Attorney Galloway carefully evaluates each client’s financial situation to determine whether Chapter 7 is the right fit or whether an alternative path, such as Chapter 13 bankruptcy or debt negotiation, would produce a better result.
For companies going out of business, Chapter 7 provides an orderly process to wind down operations, sell assets and resolve outstanding debts. Bankruptcy attorney Carol M. Galloway provides the technical assistance needed to navigate this process efficiently and in compliance with court requirements. If a business owner is considering staying in business despite financial difficulties, we can explore reorganization options and offer guidance on the best path forward.
Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Solutions for Homeowners and Wage Earners
Chapter 13 bankruptcy provides a structured repayment plan that allows filers to catch up on past-due obligations while maintaining ownership of their property. Under Chapter 13, the court approves a three-to-five-year repayment plan that consolidates debts into a single manageable monthly payment. At the end of the plan, remaining qualifying unsecured debts are discharged.
To qualify for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, a person must earn a steady income and meet the debt limits established under the Bankruptcy Code. This form of bankruptcy is primarily for individuals and sole proprietors, not for corporations or partnerships. Chapter 13 is particularly valuable for homeowners at risk of foreclosure, as it allows them to cure mortgage arrears over the life of the plan while keeping their home. It also helps filers address wage garnishments, tax debts and other obligations that may not be dischargeable under Chapter 7.
If circumstances change during the repayment period, filers may be eligible for a plan modification or, in cases of severe hardship, a hardship discharge. Attorney Galloway works closely with Chapter 13 clients throughout their repayment plan, helping them adapt to changing financial circumstances and stay on track toward debt freedom.
How the Automatic Stay Protects You
One of the most immediate benefits of filing for bankruptcy is the automatic stay, a federal court order that takes effect the moment your petition is filed. The automatic stay halts most collection actions against you, including creditor phone calls, lawsuits, wage garnishments, bank levies, foreclosure proceedings and vehicle repossession attempts. This protection gives you the breathing room needed to assess your options and work with your attorney to develop the best strategy for resolving your debts.
Negotiating with Creditors and Finding the Best Debt Relief Options
When debt accumulates to a point where repayment becomes impossible, it is time to evaluate all available legal options. The Law Offices of Carol M. Galloway helps clients analyze the best possibilities for their specific financial circumstances. Whether you are considering filing for yourself or on behalf of a small business, we provide guidance on which path offers the most effective route to financial recovery.
In some situations, you may be able to settle your debts without filing for bankruptcy. Debt negotiation and settlement can reduce the total amount you owe while avoiding a bankruptcy filing on your record. Creditors often prefer reaching a settlement because the alternative, the debtor filing for bankruptcy, may leave them with no recovery at all.
When creditors become aggressive or threatening, their tactics sometimes violate federal protections under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). Attorney Galloway serves as your advocate in dealings with creditors, putting a stop to creditor harassment and defending against debt collection lawsuits. Having experienced legal representation changes the dynamic, as creditors must deal with a professional who understands the law and can negotiate effectively on your behalf.
Comprehensive Bankruptcy and Debt Relief Services
Every financial situation involves a unique combination of assets, income, debts and personal circumstances. Attorney Carol M. Galloway provides guidance across a full range of bankruptcy and debt-related matters, including:
- Asset protection strategies to safeguard your property during and after bankruptcy
- Bankruptcy exemptions analysis to maximize the property you retain
- Credit card debt elimination through Chapter 7 discharge
- Medical bill bankruptcy to eliminate overwhelming healthcare debts
- Student loan debt evaluation and potential discharge through adversary proceedings
- Tax debt resolution including discharge of qualifying tax obligations
- IRS tax lien removal and tax lien avoidance in bankruptcy
- Foreclosure defense and strategies to keep your home in bankruptcy
- Emergency bankruptcy filings when immediate protection is required
- Payday loan debt relief and protection from predatory lending cycles
- HOA debt resolution through the bankruptcy process
- Judgment removal and lien avoidance
- Post-bankruptcy credit rebuilding guidance and ongoing legal support
Bankruptcy Solutions for Specific Situations
Financial hardship does not affect everyone the same way. The Law Offices of Carol M. Galloway has experience helping clients from all walks of life navigate the bankruptcy process, including veterans and active military personnel who may qualify for additional protections under the HAVEN Act and the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA). We also assist seniors on fixed incomes, single parents, self-employed individuals and small business owners facing unique financial challenges.
For those dealing with debt issues arising from major life changes, Attorney Galloway provides knowledgeable guidance on bankruptcy after divorce, managing car loans in bankruptcy, child support arrears and bankruptcy, filing a second bankruptcy and addressing potential bankruptcy dismissal concerns. If you have already filed Chapter 13 and your circumstances have changed, we can help with converting from Chapter 13 to Chapter 7.
Jacksonville Business Bankruptcy Lawyer
Business owners facing financial distress have different needs than individual filers. The Law Offices of Carol M. Galloway assists Jacksonville businesses with Chapter 7 liquidation, helping owners wind down operations in an orderly fashion while minimizing personal liability. For sole proprietors who want to continue operating, Chapter 13 may provide a viable path to restructure debts and maintain business operations. Attorney Galloway evaluates both the business and personal financial picture to develop a comprehensive strategy.
Employment Law Attorney Serving Jacksonville, Florida
Federal and state laws regulate the workplace and protect employees from unlawful treatment. The federal government prohibits discrimination and harassment based on age, sex, race, color, national origin, religion, disability, genetic information and pregnancy. Florida law builds on these federal protections and adds additional categories, including marital status under certain local ordinances.
Despite these legal protections, many employees experience wrongful treatment in the workplace. Discrimination can take many forms, including adverse employment decisions in hiring, promotion, compensation, job assignments and termination. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations and prohibits discrimination based on disability. Sexual harassment, hostile work environment claims and retaliation against employees who report violations are all actionable under federal and state law.
Employers who carry out discriminatory practices, permit ongoing harassment or retaliate against employees who assert their rights can face significant legal consequences, including back pay, compensatory damages, punitive damages and attorney fees. If you believe your employer has violated your rights, the Law Offices of Carol M. Galloway can evaluate your situation and help hold your employer accountable.
Serving Communities Throughout Florida
While our primary office is located in Jacksonville, the Law Offices of Carol M. Galloway serves clients across Northeast Florida and Central Florida. We understand that each community faces distinct economic pressures, and we bring local insight to every case we handle.
Jacksonville Neighborhoods
We proudly serve clients throughout Jacksonville’s diverse neighborhoods, including Arlington, the Northside, Southside, Westside and Mandarin.
Northeast Florida Communities
Our firm represents clients throughout the First Coast region, including Jacksonville Beach, Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach, Ponte Vedra, Fernandina Beach, Yulee, Orange Park, Fleming Island, Green Cove Springs, Middleburg, St. Augustine and Palm Coast.
Central Florida
We also serve clients in the Orlando area who need experienced bankruptcy representation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bankruptcy in Jacksonville
How do I know if I should file Chapter 7 or Chapter 13?
The right chapter depends on your income, the types of debt you owe, whether you have property you need to protect and your long-term financial goals. Chapter 7 is generally best for people with limited income who want to eliminate unsecured debts quickly. Chapter 13 works better for people with steady income who need to catch up on secured debts like mortgages or car payments. Attorney Galloway evaluates your complete financial picture to recommend the approach that serves your interests.
Will I lose my home or car if I file for bankruptcy?
Florida offers some of the most protective bankruptcy exemptions in the country, including an unlimited homestead exemption for your primary residence (provided you meet the residency requirements). Many filers are able to keep their home, vehicle and other essential property. The specific protections available depend on your circumstances, which is why consulting with an experienced bankruptcy attorney is essential before filing.
How long does the bankruptcy process take?
A typical Chapter 7 case takes approximately three to four months from filing to discharge. Chapter 13 cases involve a repayment plan lasting three to five years, with the discharge occurring after successful completion of the plan. In both cases, the automatic stay provides immediate relief from creditor actions as soon as the petition is filed.
Can bankruptcy stop a foreclosure or wage garnishment?
Yes. Filing for bankruptcy triggers the automatic stay, which immediately halts foreclosure proceedings, wage garnishments, bank levies and most other collection actions. Chapter 13 allows homeowners to cure mortgage arrears over time while keeping their property, providing a powerful tool for foreclosure prevention.
What debts cannot be discharged in bankruptcy?
Certain obligations are generally not dischargeable, including most child support and alimony obligations, most student loans (absent a showing of undue hardship), certain tax debts, debts arising from fraud and criminal fines or restitution. Attorney Galloway can review your specific debts and explain which obligations are likely to be discharged and which will remain.
Call the Law Offices of Carol M. Galloway in Jacksonville for Help With Financial Distress
At the Law Offices of Carol M. Galloway, we provide our clients with knowledgeable counsel and dedicated advocacy throughout the bankruptcy process. People seeking debt relief often feel overwhelmed and isolated, but you do not have to face these challenges alone. Whether you need to file Chapter 7, restructure your debts through Chapter 13, negotiate with creditors or explore alternatives to bankruptcy, Attorney Galloway has the experience and knowledge to guide you toward the best possible outcome.
Contact us today at 904-694-5489 for a free initial consultation with an experienced Jacksonville bankruptcy lawyer. We serve clients throughout Jacksonville, Orange Park, St. Augustine, Palm Coast, Orlando and surrounding Florida communities.
