Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Attorney Serving Stuart, FL

If you are struggling with unmanageable debt in Stuart, FL, we can help you explore a structured path forward. As a chapter 13 bankruptcy attorney serving Stuart, FL, and Martin County, we bring more than 30 years of experience and a compassionate, personalized approach to debt relief. Since 1990, we have helped over 10,000 people work toward a financial fresh start. Call (772) 344-9090 or (561) 689-6789 today to schedule a free consultation.

How Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Works in Stuart, FL

Chapter 13 bankruptcy is a court-supervised repayment plan that lets you reorganize debt over three to five years while keeping your home, car, and other property. Rather than liquidating assets like Chapter 7, Chapter 13 allows you to catch up on missed payments while a trustee oversees the process. For residents of Stuart, FL, and surrounding Martin County communities like Palm City, Hobe Sound, and Jensen Beach, this can be a realistic way to regain financial control.


Martin County bankruptcy cases are filed in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Florida. Once your petition is filed, an automatic stay immediately stops most creditor collection actions, including foreclosure, wage garnishment, and harassing calls. We will prepare your petition, build your repayment plan, and guide you through each step.


To qualify, you generally need a regular source of income and must meet the bankruptcy code's debt limits. You must also be current on tax filings and complete a court-approved credit counseling course before filing. We can review your situation during a free consultation to help determine whether you qualify.

Can Chapter 13 Stop Foreclosure in Stuart, FL?

Yes. Filing Chapter 13 triggers an automatic stay that immediately halts an active foreclosure, giving you time to catch up on missed mortgage payments through your repayment plan. This is especially valuable for Stuart-area homeowners who fell behind due to temporary hardship, such as job loss or medical bills, but have steady income to support structured repayment.

The Chapter 13 Process at Ozment Law

We keep the process straightforward and explain each stage clearly. Working with a dedicated chapter 13 bankruptcy attorney means you have knowledgeable guidance from the first consultation through your final plan payment.


  1. Schedule a free consultation to discuss your income, debts, assets, and financial goals.
  2. Review your eligibility and determine whether Chapter 13 is the best fit.
  3. Gather required documents, including income records, tax returns, and a full list of debts and assets.
  4. File your petition and proposed repayment plan with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Florida.
  5. Attend the Section 341 meeting of creditors and, upon court confirmation, begin monthly plan payments.


After you complete all plan payments, typically over three to five years, qualifying remaining unsecured debts may be discharged. We work with you throughout the entire process.

Why Stuart Residents Choose Ozment Law

We have served Treasure Coast clients for more than three decades and offer same-day telephone, Zoom, or in-person meetings. Attorney Drake Ozment is an experienced chapter 13 bankruptcy attorney with a deep understanding of Florida exemptions and local court procedures, also handling Chapter 7 bankruptcy cases for clients who qualify. Our team is known for clear communication and honest guidance.


Residents of Stuart, Palm City, Port St. Lucie, and Hobe Sound have trusted us for accessible legal help at every stage of the process. If Chapter 13 is not the right fit, we can also discuss Chapter 7 bankruptcy  or other debt relief options.

Judge's gavel on bankruptcy law book with legal books in background.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What Is the Difference Between Chapter 13 and Chapter 7 Bankruptcy?

    Chapter 13 lets you keep assets and repay debts over a structured plan. Chapter 7 may discharge debts more quickly but can involve surrendering non-exempt property. Chapter 13 is often the better choice for homeowners who want to protect property and stop foreclosure. We can help you compare both options in a free consultation.

  • How Long Does a Chapter 13 Case Take in Florida?

    A Chapter 13 case typically lasts three to five years. Once you complete all plan payments and meet other requirements, the court may discharge remaining eligible debts.

  • Will Filing Chapter 13 Stop Creditor Calls and Garnishments?

    Yes, in most cases. The automatic stay can stop creditor calls, wage garnishment, and foreclosure as soon as the court accepts your petition. Learn more about wage garnishment and how bankruptcy may help.

  • How Much Does It Cost to File Chapter 13 in Stuart, FL?

    We offer competitive pricing and a low down payment to get started. Contact us directly for a quote, as costs vary based on the complexity of your case. A chapter 13 bankruptcy attorney on our team can walk you through expected fees during your free consultation.

  • Do I Need to Go to Court for a Chapter 13 Case?

    You will typically need to attend a Section 341 meeting of creditors, a brief meeting with the court-appointed trustee. For most filers, this is the only required court appearance. We prepare you so you know exactly what to expect.

Talk to a Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Attorney in Stuart, FL Today

Debt does not have to define your future. We offer free consultations for Stuart, FL, and Martin County residents who want to understand their options under Chapter 13. Call (772) 344-9090 for the St. Lucie County office or (561) 689-6789 for Palm Beach County, or visit our contact page to request your appointment online with Ozment Law. Same-day telephone and Zoom meetings are available.