Michael Barnett | Tampa Bankruptcy Lawyer

• Florida State Bar Association | Member
• American Bankruptcy Institute Member
  2005 - Present
• Tampa Bay Bankruptcy Bar Association Member
  2000 - Present

• Pro Bono Service Award Tampa Bay Bankruptcy Bar Association
  2016

Had client that had filed multiple times previously, and was barred from refiling without seeking court approval. We got court approval for the refiling, filed a chapter 12 farm bankruptcy, successfully negotiated a reduction in the balance owed on the home and farm, and was able to pay the lower balance over 15 years at a low interest rate. Case recently successfully completed.

Rather than trying to get large quantity of cases, always focused on quality representation, speaking with clients personally both at initial interview through final signing of paperwork, and representing them in court in person. Also always concentrate on maintaining my reputation at court, and work on keeping up with recent cases, as well as publishing blog for other attorneys noting recent consumer cases of interest.

Bankruptcy is a complicated area. Find an attorney who specializes in this field, so they can keep up with the law. Make sure that attorney is the one meeting with you, and personally handling your case. See how well the attorney listens and understands your situation, how much time they spend with you at the initial consultation, and how well they explain your options.

There are only 3 bankruptcy judges in Tampa, handling all the cases from Sarasota County to Hernando County. It is important to know what each judge and each trustee want to have a successful case.

Federal bankruptcy law requires certain written disclosures to be given before or within 3 days of any advice about bankruptcy. Generally we need an in person appointment to comply with this law, but we can do skype appointments once the paperwork is completed. Any attorney who does phone consultations without the required paperwork, or who gives advice without getting all the details necessary (which generally will require at least 30 minutes) is violating bankruptcy law and ethical rules.

We have free in person consultations which we strongly recommend, as opposed to phone or skype appointments. For our free initial consultation, we request a copy of the last paystubs, a copy of any lawsuits, and an estimate of what is owed. The full new client sheet is available on our website.

I have been board certified in consumer bankruptcy law longer, I believe, than any other attorney. I have been practicing consumer bankruptcy law only since 1986, and spend much more time with each client that most attorneys, insuring that I understand their situation and can make the best recommendation for a solution to their problem. Sometimes, that solution does not involve hiring me. I always try to put the client's interest first. I personally handle all client cases, rather than passing them to a junior associate or counsel outside the firm.

Being able to help honest but unfortunate clients get back on their financial feet, saving homes, farms, cars, and other property.

Went to a few too many rare fruit counsel sales at the armory next door, I have lots of unusual fruit trees at home, and 3 cats and 2 dogs to keep me busy.

I received an award from the Tampa Bay Bankruptcy Bar Association for my service assisting debtors who cannot afford attorneys over many years. I continue to volunteer at the local legal clinic multiple times per month.