Michael Barnett | Tampa Bankruptcy Lawyer

Lawyer.com Member Questionnaire

Please describe a case(s) in the last year or two where you made a big difference.
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.

How did you build a successful practice?
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.

What should clients look for in a lawyer?
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.

How important is local knowledge to the success of your cases?
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.

What information can you provide in a free phone consultation?
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.

What information do you need in a free phone consultation?
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.

What differentiates you from other lawyers in your community?
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.

What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
Being able to help honest but unfortunate clients get back on their financial feet, saving homes, farms, cars, and other property.

What are your other interests in addition to law?
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.

Are you involved in your community?
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.

• 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

• Efficient & Professional - A true task that was embarrassing and involving a lot of paperwork was made to seem effortless.Mr.Barnett and DJ are on their game and know their stuff! Everything they said was true and seamless. Follow their advice and you will not be steered wrong. I highly recommend them and would use their services again if needed. Thank You both for all your hard work and honesty. We wish you much success.

  Carol Sanabria

• Aspatore Book publication | Strategies for Consumer Bankruptcy Appeals (co-author) | 2012
  Analysis of changes under 2005 bankruptcy law | 1017 checklist | 2005
  What Everyone Should Know about Chapter 12 Bankruptcy | Chapter 12 Farm,Ranch, Fisherman bankruptcy | 2017
  Judge McEwen's Mentoring Program | Best Practices Communicating with Clients | 2015
  Consumer Luncheon | Chapter 12 Bankruptcy | 2014

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