BANKRUPTCY A Fresh Start. Clear Guidance. A Path Forward.
At Cardenas Law Firm LLC, we help individuals and families in Florida and Pennsylvania understand their bankruptcy options — clearly and without judgment. Whether you are facing overwhelming debt, creditor calls, or the risk of losing what matters most, our team is here to help you evaluate your situation, understand the process, and move forward with confidence.
Bankruptcy is not failure. It is a legal tool designed to give people a real second chance.
How we help you through the bankruptcy process
Before recommending Chapter 7 or Chapter 13, we take the time to review your financial situation, understand your goals, and help you choose the path that makes the most sense for you.
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Review of your financial situation
Income, debts, assets, and expenses
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Clear explanation of your options
Chapter 7 vs. Chapter 13, eligibility, and what to expect
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Attorney-guided case preparation
Accurate, complete filings to avoid delays or dismissal
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Ongoing communication throughout
So you always know what’s happening next
Not Sure Where You Fall?
Every financial situation is different. Answer a few quick questions to help us point you in the right direction.
State-Specific Bankruptcy Services
The process is federal. The details are local. We know both.
Bankruptcy in Florida
We represent individuals and families filing for Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 in the Southern District of Florida — with attorney-guided support and attention to Florida-specific exemptions and local court requirements.
Bankruptcy in Pennsylvania
We assist Pennsylvania residents with Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 filings — applying state and federal exemption options to help protect what matters most throughout the process.
A Faster Way Out of Debt
A straightforward path to eliminating qualifying debt
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
For individuals who qualify, this may be the fastest legal path to a clean slate.
Chapter 7 is often the right option for individuals with limited income who are dealing with significant unsecured debt — such as credit cards, medical bills, or personal loans. When eligible, it allows for a discharge of qualifying debts relatively quickly.
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Eligibility Review and Means Test
We review your income, expenses, and financial situation to determine if Chapter 7 is the right fit before anything is filed.
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Petition Preparation and Filing
We prepare your bankruptcy petition carefully and completely — minimizing the risk of delays, errors, or dismissal.
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Automatic Stay
The moment your case is filed, collection calls, lawsuits, wage garnishments, and most other collection actions must stop immediately by law.
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Discharge of Qualifying Debts
We identify which debts may be eligible for discharge — including credit cards, medical bills, and personal loans — and guide you through the process.
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Guidance Through the 341 Meeting of Creditors
We prepare you for what to expect at this required meeting and walk you through the process so nothing catches you off guard.
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Review of Applicable State Property Exemptions
State law protects certain assets in bankruptcy. We review what you own and help you understand what may be protected based on where you live.
The Moment You File, They Have to Stop.
The moment your case is filed, an automatic stay goes into effect. That means creditor calls, lawsuits, wage garnishments, and in many cases, foreclosure proceedings must stop — immediately, by law. It gives you breathing room while your case moves forward.
Keep Your Assets. Repay on Your Terms
A structured repayment plan that protects what matters most
Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
Keep your home, your car, and your peace of mind while you catch up on debt.
Chapter 13 is designed for individuals who have regular income but need a structured way to catch up on debt — especially when they want to protect a home, a car, or other assets. Instead of liquidating, you work with the court to create a 3–5 year repayment plan.
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Eligibility Review Based on Income and Debt Limits
We review your income, debt type, and financial situation to confirm Chapter 13 is the right option and that you meet the court’s requirements before filing.
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Repayment Plan Preparation and Court Submission
We build a realistic, court-compliant repayment plan based on your income and obligations — one that works for your situation, not against it.
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Automatic Stay
Filing immediately triggers a legal stop on foreclosures, repossessions, wage garnishments, and most other collection actions — giving you breathing room from day one.
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Protection of Exempt Assets Throughout the Process
Unlike Chapter 7, Chapter 13 allows you to keep your assets while you repay. We make sure what you’ve worked for stays protected throughout the life of your plan.
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Mortgage Arrears Restructuring
If you’ve fallen behind on your mortgage, Chapter 13 may allow you to catch up through your repayment plan — potentially keeping you in your home.
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Guidance From Filing to Discharge
Chapter 13 is a multi-year process. We stay with you from the first filing through the final discharge — so you always know where you stand and what comes next.
Finding the Right Path
Chapter 7 vs. Chapter 13 — Two different paths, one goal: a way forward.
You May Qualify for CH 7 If:
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Your income is at or below your state’s median — or you pass the means test
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Most of what you owe is unsecured debt like credit cards, medical bills, or personal loans
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You are not trying to save a home you are behind on
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You have not filed for Chapter 7 in the last 8 years
CH 13 May Be a Better Fit If:
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You have steady income but need time to catch up on what you owe
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You are behind on your mortgage and want to stop foreclosure
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Your income is too high to qualify for Chapter 7
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You owe certain debts that cannot be discharged — like back taxes or arrears — and need a plan to repay them
Every situation is different. If you’re not sure which option applies to you — or if neither seems like the right fit — we can review your situation and help you understand what options may still be available.
Our Bankruptcy Attorneys
Every case is handled by a licensed attorney — not a paralegal, not a case manager. You work directly with someone who knows your situation.
Abraham B. Cárdenas
Founding Attorney — Pennsylvania Bankruptcy
Javier Puertas
Associate Attorney — Florida Bankruptcy
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13?
Chapter 7 eliminates most unsecured debt relatively quickly and is best for those with limited income.
Chapter 13 creates a structured repayment plan over 3–5 years and is better for those with steady income who want to protect assets like a home or car.
The right option depends on your specific financial situation.
Will bankruptcy ruin my credit forever?
No. While bankruptcy does affect your credit, it is not permanent. Chapter 7 stays on your credit report for up to 10 years and Chapter 13 for up to 7 years. Many people begin rebuilding their credit shortly after their case is resolved — and for many, filing is the first real step toward financial recovery.
Can bankruptcy stop a foreclosure?
In many cases, yes. The automatic stay that goes into effect the moment you file can temporarily stop foreclosure proceedings. Chapter 13 in particular may allow you to catch up on missed mortgage payments through your repayment plan and keep your home.
What debts cannot be discharged in bankruptcy?
Certain debts generally cannot be eliminated through bankruptcy, including student loans, child support, alimony, most tax debts, and debts resulting from fraud. We review your specific debts during your consultation so you know exactly what to expect.
How long does the process take?
Chapter 7 cases are often resolved within 3 to 6 months. Chapter 13 involves a repayment plan that lasts 3 to 5 years. Timelines can vary depending on your case and court processing.
Will I lose my home or car if I file?
Not necessarily. Both Florida and Pennsylvania have exemptions that may protect certain assets , including your primary home and a vehicle up to a certain value. Chapter 13 is specifically designed to help people keep their assets while catching up on debt.
Can I file if I am self-employed or have irregular income?
Yes. Self-employed individuals can file for bankruptcy. Eligibility for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 will depend on your average income and expenses over the past several months, which we review during your consultation.
Ready to take the next step?
Tell us about your situation. Our team will review your message and respond with clear information about your options — no pressure, no judgment.
Prefer to speak with someone from our team right now?