Trial Attorney in Northwest Florida
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Bankruptcy and Family Lawyer
At the Law Office of John F. Greene, in Destin, I have over 24 years of experience representing individuals in bankruptcy and family law matters. When you hire me, I am with you from start to finish. Contact my offices to set up a confidential consultation.
Personal Bankruptcy | Stop Garnishments, Foreclosure, and Harassment
I handle all matters related to or arising out of personal bankruptcy, including Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 filings. The bankruptcy laws changed in 2005, making it more difficult for debtors to obtain a discharge of debts under Chapter 7. I will help you determine whether you will meet the means test to qualify for a Chapter 7 liquidation or whether you will be limited to Chapter 13 repayment plan. I will also help you understand which debts can be discharged in bankruptcy, as well as which assets can be protected from creditors.
- Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Chapter 7 is designed for debtors in financial difficulty who do not have the ability to pay their existing debts. Debtors whose debts are primarily consumer in nature are subject to a "means test" designed to determine whether the case should be allowed to proceed under Chapter 7. If the debtors qualify, they obtain a discharge of most existing debts. Debtors are allowed to keep certain property that is exempt under governing law. A trustee may have the right to take possession of and sell the remaining property that is not exempt and use the proceeds to pay creditors.
- Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Chapter 13 is designed for individuals with regular income who would like to pay all or part of their debts in installments over a period of time. Under Chapter 13, debtors file a plan with the court to repay creditors over a period of 3 to 5 years with future earnings. The debtors are allowed to keep all of their property. After completing the payments under the plan, most debts are generally discharged.
- Special considerations. Some types of debts are not dischargeable under either Chapter 7 or Chapter 13. Taxes, student loans, domestic support, property settlement obligations, criminal fines, and restitution are examples of debts that cannot be discharged. The debtor continues to be responsible for repayment of these debts.
Family Law Advocacy
I work with men and women at all stages of a divorce, from the initial filing and the determination of temporary custody, visitation and support, to mediation, trial, and post-judgment requests for modification of existing orders. I handle both contested and uncontested dissolutions. Over 24 years of practice, I have learned when to fight and when to cooperate. My comprehensive family law practice includes counsel on
- Child custody and visitation. I will help you negotiate and implement custody and visitation arrangements that promote the best interests of your children while protecting your rights as a parent.
- Child support. I will help you understand and navigate Florida's child support guidelines and help ensure that all legitimate income is factored into the support award.
- Spousal support or alimony. I will work with you to determine whether spousal maintenance or alimony is appropriate and, if so, the amount, frequency and duration of payments.
- Separation and prenuptial agreements. If you want a legal separation instead of a divorce or you want to protect assets going into a marriage. I can negotiate and prepare the required agreements.
- Distribution of marital assets.
- Collaborative law.
If you have been the victim of domestic violence, I will work with you to obtain restraining or protective orders, if necessary.
For an experienced trial lawyer to handle your bankruptcy or family law matter, contact me to schedule a confidential consultation. My offices are open Monday through Thursday, 9 am until 5 pm and Fridays from 9 am until 2 pm. Weekend and evening appointments are available upon request. I accept Visa, MasterCard and American Express.
Dedication ◊ Experience ◊ Integrity
Law Office of John F. Greene
4507 Furling Lane, Suite 210
Destin, FL 32541
Phone: (850) 424-6833
Fax: (850) 837-1969
New Orleans: (504) 482-9700