🏚️ Subtitle:
One wrong move can turn your fresh start into a legal nightmare.
Filing for bankruptcy in Florida is supposed to give you relief—not land you in a worse mess. But every year, thousands of well-meaning people make costly mistakes that get their cases dismissed—or even flagged for fraud.
If you’re even thinking about filing Chapter 7 or Chapter 13, read this first.
⚠️ Mistake #1: “Forgetting” to List an Asset
What it looks like:
You don’t mention your second car, that side business, or the $3,000 in your Venmo account.
The problem:
The bankruptcy trustee finds out (they will), and now you’re facing dismissal—or worse, allegations of intentional fraud.
Honesty isn’t just smart. It’s required.
⚠️ Mistake #2: Transferring Property Right Before Filing
What it looks like:
You quitclaim your house to your sister “just in case,” or gift a car to a friend.
The problem:
The court sees this as an attempt to hide assets. These “fraudulent transfers” can void your case entirely.
⚠️ Mistake #3: Maxing Out Credit Cards Before Filing
What it looks like:
You know you’re filing anyway, so you run up a few extra charges—why not?
The problem:
That’s bankruptcy fraud. Creditors will object, and you may be forced to pay the full balance back, even in Chapter 7.
⚠️ Mistake #4: Missing the Credit Counseling Requirement
What it looks like:
You skip the pre-filing credit counseling course or forget to submit the certificate.
The problem:
Your case gets rejected before it even starts.
⚠️ Mistake #5: Filing Without an Attorney
What it looks like:
You try to DIY the process using an online form or a friend’s advice.
The problem:
Florida’s bankruptcy rules are complex. One error in the petition or exemptions can cost you your car, home, or discharge rights.
⚠️ Mistake #6: Failing to Attend the 341 Meeting
What it looks like:
You miss the court-mandated “meeting of creditors,” thinking it’s optional.
The problem:
Your case can be dismissed for non-compliance—and you won’t get another shot without re-filing (and paying again).
⚠️ Mistake #7: Ignoring Your Attorney’s Advice
What it looks like:
You file last-minute taxes, sell something online, or take out a loan without telling your attorney.
The problem:
Even small moves can trigger major legal issues if your attorney can’t plan for them.
🧠 Bottom Line: Bankruptcy Is a Legal Minefield. Don’t Walk It Alone.
Whether you’re in West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Boynton Beach, Planation, Fort Lauderdale, Naples, Fort Myers, or anywhere else in Florida, avoiding these mistakes can mean the difference between relief and regret.
✅ What a Bankruptcy Attorney Will Do for You:
- Make sure all forms are complete and accurate
- Help protect your exempt property (like your home or vehicle)
- Deal with aggressive creditors
- Maximize your chance of a full discharge
💬 Final Word:
“Most dismissals are avoidable. The problem is people don’t realize the danger until it’s too late.”
— Steven E. Wallace, Esq.