Tag Archives: tampa bankruptcy attorney

What not to do when filing for chapter 7 bankruptcy

Posted on May 28, 2012 by Blick Law

Feeling overwhelmed by a massive amount of debt? Feeling the weight of the economy piling on your shoulders?

At Blick Law Firm, we understand that filing for bankruptcy can be a very difficult and emotional process. However, it is important to remember that bankruptcy protects and provides relief for people overwhelmed with debt.

Bankruptcy laws liquidate assets to pay debts or create repayment plans to help people make a fresh, financial start. People with businesses are also able to file bankruptcy for orderly distributions of liquidation or financial re-organization. Most bankruptcy cases are filed under Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 of the Bankruptcy Code. Federal courts have exclusive jurisdiction over bankruptcy cases, so they cannot be filed in a state court.

The difference between a successful and an unsuccessful bankruptcy claim lies in correctly filing information and paperwork. Make sure you take the proper steps and precautions when filing for bankruptcy. Blick Law Firm has the expertise to assist you with your bankruptcy claim. We guide our clients every step of the way to answer any questions that may arise and ensure your claim is successful.

In today’s economy, filing for bankruptcy is common and often the best alternative. Rise above your current financial situation and take control today. Call Blick Law Firm to set up your FREE consultation to see if you qualify for a Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 Bankruptcy.

Some preventative quick tips when filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy:

When filing for bankruptcy…DON’T do anything out of the ordinary in your finances beyond paying your regular bills and household expenses.

DON’T transfer any money or property to any one without first speaking to your chapter 7 bankruptcy attorney.

DON’T omit any information about your finances.

DON’T miss your meeting with the creditors.

DON’T omit any creditor from your bankruptcy filing.

DON’T be afraid or overwhelmed.  Blick Law Firm is here to assist you. Call today to receive your consultation at 813-931-0840. Think quick, call Blick.

 

Posted in Bankruptcy, Blog | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

What ‘to do’ to file for chapter 7 bankruptcy

Posted on May 11, 2012 by Blick Law

While there may be a stigma to filing chapter 7 bankruptcy, claiming bankruptcy may alleviate everyday stress and financial burdens. If you decide to file for chapter 7 bankruptcy, be mindful to completely and accurately gather and fill out all documents pertaining to your claim.

To seamlessly file your bankruptcy in an accurate and in a timely manner, follow the following key steps for filing chapter 7 bankruptcy with a Tampa bankruptcy attorney.

DO complete the bankruptcy intake packet that you receive on your initial visit at Blick Law Firm.

DO bring all requested documents to your second appointment. **A third appointment may result in an additional fee.

DO value your personal property at garage sale prices your Tampa bankruptcy lawyer can help you keep as much of your personal property as possible.

DO value your cars using the NADA. Also, check with Kelly Blue Book.

DO plan on having a low balance in your checking account the day you file your petition.

DO notify your creditor if you have retained a bankruptcy attorney to assist in your filing process.

DO stop making payments to your credit card accounts.

DO continue making payments on your mortgage and other secured debts.

DO let your Tampa bankruptcy attorney know of any abusive conduct by any debt collector.

DO inform your attorney of any lawsuits in which you might be involved, including personal injury.

DO take your first and second credit counseling classes. Classes in which to attend will be instructed to you by your law firm.

DO bring your driver license and social security card to your appointments and 341 hearing.

DO call Blick Law Firm if you have any questions.

If you are seeking to discharge your debt, contact a Tampa bankruptcy attorney that has the experience and knowledge to accurately file your information. Call Blick Law Firm today at 813-931-0840 to receive your chapter 7 bankruptcy.

Posted in Bankruptcy, Blog | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Tax Returns being used to file Bankruptcy

Posted on March 28, 2012 by Blick Law Firm

The Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health reports that more families have been using their tax rebates to file for bankruptcy.

In 2001, bankruptcies increased 2 percent after receiving rebates but increased 7 percent in 2008, according to research by Tal Gross, an assistant professor of health policy and management at the school.

Overall, Gross found bankruptcy filings fell by more than 50 percent between the two years, presumably due to the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act passed in 2005.  Legal fees for filing increased from an average of $921 to $1,477.

While some debate the new law was a good way to weed out unnecessary filings, Gross believes it made it more difficult for families in need to dig themselves out of their financial troubles.

Although bankruptcy has had a bit of a bad rep in the past, it may be the only option for people with medical debt.  Attorney Michael Blickensderfer is knowledgeable in  recent bankruptcy laws and may offer assistance as you face this hardship.

Although filing for bankruptcy remains on one’s credit history for up to 10 years, the credit score may go up as much as 100 points as shortly as a year later.

Call Blick Law Firm today to receive a free consultation regarding chapter 7 bankruptcy  and how you can file and the procedures that go into filing.

Think quick, call Blick. 813-931-0840.

 

Posted in Bankruptcy, Blog | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Florida Bankruptcy Alternatives

Posted on March 19, 2012 by Blick Law Firm

Attorney, Michael Blickensderfer, practices bankruptcy law. As a consumer who is in financial hardship, it is important to know the alternatives to filing bankruptcy… and we can help!

Florida Bankruptcy Alternatives:

Receiving late notices and phone calls from creditors? DON’T IGNORE THEM!

Talk with your creditors and attempt to work out a payment plan.  Explain your situation and the reason for the hardship.  Often the creditor is willing to co-operate.

  1. Possible options?  Debt consolidation loan  will allow you to pay off all your creditors and then you will just be left with the debt consolidation loan payment. 
  2. Another option is a Florida credit counseling plan where your creditors may be willing to lower your interest rates and accept a reduced payment if you enter a “Debt Repayment Plan.”  Your money is generally deposited to a service.
  3. A third option to Florida personal bankruptcy is a Florida credit counseling plan. Your creditors may be willing to lower your interest rates and accept reduced payments if you enter a debt repayment plan.

Generally, in these plans, you deposit money each month with the credit counseling service. Your deposits are used to pay your creditors according to a payment schedule developed by the counselor. As part of the repayment plan, you may have to agree not to apply for, or use, any additional credit while you’re participating in the program.

Contact Blick Law Firm today for more information regarding these programs, bankruptcy laws and changes in Florida. We are here to help you in your time of need, you are not alone! 813-931-0840.

Posted in Bankruptcy, Blog | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

The Fuel that Drives a Law Family

Posted on March 31, 2011 by Blick Law

TAMPA — Mike Blickensderfer, president of Blick Law Firm, measures the success of his business by a unique standard: His family wants to work there too.

“My wife and each of my children have different talents, and I’m fortunate because they are putting them to use at our law firm,” said Blickensderfer, whose Tampa firm is well-known in motorcycle circles and in community groups on the West Coast.

Mike’s wife, Vivian, is the marketing manager of Blick Law Firm, Dana Blickensderfer, 22, is the public relations and social media director, and son Steven looks to be joining his father as an attorney at the firm after his graduation from University of Florida Levin College of Law in May.

“It’s such a blessing to see our each of our children use their talents to help out the business,” said Vivian Blickensderfer. “They wanted to do it.”

Eldest daughter, Danielle — now studying architecture in New York — was the first one to work at the firm, and then handed the reins to sister, Dana.

“Danielle was the one who started it all for me and my brother,” said Dana Blickensderfer. “She was looking for something to do while going to school and she was the gatekeeper of the firm.”

Blick Law Firm holds seminars hosted by Vivian, sponsors events put on by Dana, and works with groups of realtors, doctors and other attorneys to generate the business.

While family comprises the nucleus of the team, the 13 non-family employees play a vital role to running a diverse practice.

The Blick Law Firm has been nominated by The Tampa Business Journal as one of the top places to work in Tampa Bay.

“Our faith is about  helping one another in the community,”  Dana Blickensderfer said. “The foundation of our business is helping the hurting.”

Compassion is critical in a business that deals with family law issues.

“Unfortunately, some cases involve death and we help the family cope,”   Dana Blickensderfer said. “Mike is really good at listening and supporting the family.  But he’s also very good at taking care of the legal stuff that they can’t do on their own.”

Compassion — and understanding — also play a strong role inside the office.

“We keep our morale high by having little giveaways every month, spending time with each other, and keeping communication lines open,” Dana Blickensderfer said.

Mike Blickensderfer said the practice has evolved over the years.

Read more.

Posted in Blog | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Filing Bankruptcy was once perceived a failure, now a relief and benefit for many.

Posted on January 25, 2011 by Blick Law

In the minds of many people, a Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing can be perceived as a business failure. But for businesspeople who experience a Chapter 11, reorganize the company’s debts and successfully emerge, there are lessons learned that make their companies stronger and more likely to prosper in the future.

“It was definitely very interesting and an experience that we, as a company, learned a lot from, but probably not an experience we want to go through again,” said Russell Devendorf, senior vice president and chief financial officer of WCI Communities Inc., a Bonita Springs-based homebuilder that developed projects like …

At Blick Law Firm we can handle your bankruptcy claim and best assist you in lifting the financial burden off your shoulders. Call us and find out what plan works best for you and your loved ones, family or business.  For a Tampa Bankruptcy attorney call us at 813-931-0840.
Posted in Blog | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment