# Attorney Patrick Cordero > Miami Bankruptcy Attorneys THE LARGEST CONSUMER BANKRUPTCY FILING FIRM IN MIAMI-DADE, BROWARD AND IN THE STATE OF FLORIDA. SCHEDULE YOUR FREE CONSULTATION TODAY! CONTACT US (305) 267-3376 BANKRUPTCY FORECLOSURE REAL --- ## Pages - [Management](https://attorneycordero.com/about/our-team/attorneys/management/): Management THE LAW OFFICES OF PATRICK CORDERO MEET OUR MANAGEMENT TEAM We are a one-stop solution when you want to... - [Ryan L. Cordero](https://attorneycordero.com/about/our-team/attorneys/ryan-l-cordero/) - [Tania Garcia](https://attorneycordero.com/about/our-team/attorneys/tania-garcia/) - [Jannette Pineiro, Esq.](https://attorneycordero.com/about/our-team/attorneys/jannette-pineiro-esq/) - [Home 2025](https://attorneycordero.com/): Miami Bankruptcy Attorneys THE LARGEST CONSUMER BANKRUPTCY FILING FIRM IN MIAMI-DADE, BROWARD AND IN THE STATE OF FLORIDA. SCHEDULE YOUR... - [Practice Areas](https://attorneycordero.com/miami-lawyer-practice-areas/): Our practice areas include the following: Bankruptcy debt settlement Debt Settlement Foreclosure Real Estate Family Law Whether you are looking... - [We Can Help Mortgage Modifications & Foreclosures](https://attorneycordero.com/miami-lawyer-practice-areas/foreclosure/foreclosure-and-mortgage-modifications/) - [Inicio](https://attorneycordero.com/inicio/) - [Management- old](https://attorneycordero.com/about/our-team/attorneys/management-old/) - [Tania Garcia](https://attorneycordero.com/about/our-team/attorneys/tania-garcia-old/) - [Ally Pedrayes](https://attorneycordero.com/about/our-team/attorneys/ally-pedrayes/) - [Debt Settlement](https://attorneycordero.com/miami-lawyer-practice-areas/debt-settlement/) - [Jose M. 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If you need immediate assistance, please call... - [South Florida's Premier Divorce Lawyers](https://attorneycordero.com/miami-lawyer-practice-areas/familylaw/divorce-lawyers/) - [Dividing Property Fairly During Divorce](https://attorneycordero.com/miami-lawyer-practice-areas/familylaw/florida-property-division/) - [Alimony & Spousal Support During Divorce](https://attorneycordero.com/miami-lawyer-practice-areas/familylaw/alimony-spousal-support/) - [Why Should You Use an Attorney During Child Support Cases](https://attorneycordero.com/miami-lawyer-practice-areas/familylaw/child-support/) - [Experienced Child Custody Attorneys](https://attorneycordero.com/miami-lawyer-practice-areas/familylaw/child-custody/) - [The Benefits of Prenuptial Agreements](https://attorneycordero.com/miami-lawyer-practice-areas/familylaw/prenuptial-agreement/) - [Making Changes After a Settlement Has Been Reached](https://attorneycordero.com/miami-lawyer-practice-areas/familylaw/modifications/) - [What You Need to Know About Child Custody & Relocating](https://attorneycordero.com/miami-lawyer-practice-areas/familylaw/child-custody/parental-relocation/) - [Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Attorneys](https://attorneycordero.com/miami-lawyer-practice-areas/bankruptcy/chapter-7/) - [Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Attorneys](https://attorneycordero.com/miami-lawyer-practice-areas/bankruptcy/chapter-13/) - [We Can Stop Collectors From Calling You](https://attorneycordero.com/miami-lawyer-practice-areas/bankruptcy/debt-collections/) - [How to Save Your Car & House When Filing Bankruptcy](https://attorneycordero.com/miami-lawyer-practice-areas/bankruptcy/house-and-cars/) - [Dedicated Short Sale Attorneys in Miami](https://attorneycordero.com/miami-lawyer-practice-areas/foreclosure/short-sales/) - [Privacy Policy](https://attorneycordero.com/privacy-policy/): This privacy policy applies to information collected online from users of this website. In this policy, you can learn what... - [Family Law Attorneys with Decades of Experience](https://attorneycordero.com/miami-lawyer-practice-areas/familylaw/) - [Attorneys](https://attorneycordero.com/about/our-team/attorneys/) - [Patrick L. Cordero Esq.](https://attorneycordero.com/patrickcordero/) - [Contact Us](https://attorneycordero.com/contact/) - [Blog | News](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/) - [About Us](https://attorneycordero.com/about/) --- ## Posts - [Senators Consider Raising Chapter 13 Debt Limits: What It Means for Consumers and Small Business Owners](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/senators-consider-raising-chapter-13-debt-limits-what-it-means-for-consumers-and-small-business-owners/): As Congress reconvenes after the August recess, one major change on the horizon could bring significant relief to consumers and... - [From a Blindsiding Debt to a Fresh Start: How Attorney Patrick Cordero Stepped In](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/from-a-blindsiding-debt-to-a-fresh-start-how-attorney-patrick-cordero-stepped-in/): For many, the mere thought of unresolved debt looming over one’s head is a nightmare. It becomes even more daunting... - [When Do You Need A Bankruptcy Attorney In Florida?](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/when-do-you-need-a-bankruptcy-attorney-in-florida/): If you’re facing bankruptcy, you’re probably considering whether hiring a Bankruptcy Attorney to defend you is worth the expense. Of... - [All You Need to Know About Before Hiring Bankruptcy Lawyer in Miami](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/all-you-need-to-know-about-before-hiring-bankruptcy-lawyer-in-miami/): Choosing the best Bankruptcy Lawyer in Miami, FL is a choice that the stress of filing for bankruptcy should not... - [Types Of Bankruptcies- Choose The Right One](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/types-of-bankruptcies-choose-the-right-one/): Bankruptcy sounds ominous in everyone’s life. You might have heard about nightmare tales of business giants that have gone bankrupt.... - [How Does A Bankruptcy Attorney Help You?](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/how-does-a-bankruptcy-attorney-help-you/): The term bankruptcy naturally creates a negative image. Consumers and businesses file bankruptcy to free themselves from burdensome debt. However,... - [All You Need to Know About Bankruptcy Lawyer, Miami Florida](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/all-you-need-to-know-about-bankruptcy-lawyer-miami-florida/): Each experienced Bankruptcy Lawyer in Miami is committed to providing personal assistance to their clients. Although the thought of declaring... - [How Much Does A Bankruptcy Cost In Miami?](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/how-much-does-a-bankruptcy-cost-in-miami/): Bankruptcy Attorney Miami explains law costs for Chapter 7 consumer bankruptcies are lower than those for other types of legal... - [What You Need To Know When Filing For Divorce In Miami](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/what-you-need-to-know-when-filing-for-divorce-in-miami/): If you are filing for divorce, find the best divorce lawyer Miami FL has to offer who can guide and... - [Top Reasons To Hire A Foreclosure Defense Attorney](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/top-reasons-to-hire-a-foreclosure-defense-attorney/): If you are trying to avoid foreclosure, you may want to defend yourself without having an attorney by your side.... - [What Are The Benefits Of Hiring a Bankruptcy Attorney?](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/what-are-the-benefits-of-hiring-a-bankruptcy-attorney/): Going bankrupt can be stressful, and most business owners aren’t sure what to do in such scenarios. If you have... - [Critical Questions To Ask Your Bankruptcy Lawyer Before Filing](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/critical-questions-to-ask-your-bankruptcy-lawyer-before-filing/): If you’re drowning in debt, unsure of what to do, or even overwhelmed by tons of financial issues, then it’s... - [How Can A Good Divorce Lawyer Truly Help You?](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/how-can-a-good-divorce-lawyer-truly-help-you/): The process of getting a divorce can be very unpleasant with a lot of emotional, mental, and financial exhaustion, and... - [The Role Of A Real Estate Attorney: What You Need To Know](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/the-role-of-a-real-estate-attorney-what-you-need-to-know/): Since investing in real estate is one of the most significant investments that you will ever make in your life,... - [Things To Keep In Mind When Picking A Divorce Lawyer](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/things-to-keep-in-mind-when-picking-a-divorce-lawyer/): Most couples preparing for divorce often have a tough time, right from preserving their relationship with their children to worrying... - [Reasons Why Hiring Bankruptcy Attorneys Can Be A Good Thing](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/reasons-why-hiring-bankruptcy-attorneys-can-be-a-good-thing/): Going bankrupt is stressful for your company, and many business owners aren’t sure what to do in such scenarios. If... - [City of Hialeah 2021 Back to School Bash](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/city-of-hialeah-2021-back-to-school-bash/): Presented by The Law Offices of Patrick Cordero The Law Offices of Patrick Cordero are proud to partner with the... - [Select A Divorce Lawyer In Miami, FL With The Right Skills](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/select-a-divorce-lawyer-in-miami-fl-with-the-right-skills/): A marriage breakup is never easy, even if you decide to call it quits amicably. Emotions will run high, and... - [The Advantage of Hiring a Commercial Real Estate Attorney in Miami, FL](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/the-advantage-of-hiring-a-commercial-real-estate-attorney-in-miami-fl/): If you are planning to buy commercial real estate for business or as an investment, do not do it with... - [The Benefits of Hiring a Real Estate Attorney in Miami, FL](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/the-benefits-of-hiring-a-real-estate-attorney-in-miami-fl/): Whether you are planning to buy real estate for personal or commercial use, make sure you have a qualified and... - [Why You Should Hire a Foreclosure Attorney in Miami, FL](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/why-you-should-hire-a-foreclosure-attorney-in-miami-fl/): If you face foreclosure, you should know that the process can be complicated, especially if you want to fight it.... - [Benefits Of Hiring a Divorce Attorney In Miami, FL](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/benefits-of-hiring-a-divorce-attorney-in-miami-fl/): If you are going through a divorce, you already know how stressful and challenging it can be. It can take... - [Why You Should Let A Divorce Attorney Represent You Instead Of Representing Yourself](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/why-you-should-let-a-divorce-attorney-represent-you-instead-of-representing-yourself/): If you are starting your divorce proceedings, it can be tempting to represent yourself instead of hiring a divorce attorney... - [Why You May Need a Bankruptcy Lawyer in Miami, Florida During Your Divorce?](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/why-you-may-need-a-bankruptcy-lawyer-in-miami-florida-during-your-divorce/): If you are going through a divorce and have accrued significant debt, one way of reducing your stress could be... - [Ensure You Hire a Skilled Lawyer for Your Legal Issues](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/ensure-you-hire-a-skilled-lawyer-for-your-legal-issues/): You may need a lawyer for a divorce, file for bankruptcy, or even buy real estate. Make sure that the... - [What Options Do You Have When Divorce Leads to Bankruptcy](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/what-options-do-you-have-when-divorce-leads-to-bankruptcy/): Many times, a divorce can wreak havoc with your finances and result in bankruptcy. In Miami, many people file for... - [The Importance of an Experienced Attorney for Small Business Owners](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/the-importance-of-an-experienced-attorney-for-small-business-owners/): As a small business owner, you have limited resources. If you are looking to grow your business, then an experienced... - [Tips to Choose the Right Attorney for Your Business](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/tips-to-choose-the-right-attorney-for-your-business/): As a small business owner or even a start-up, you should take regulations and laws seriously. You need to comply... - [What Skills Should Your Lawyer Posses?](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/what-skills-should-your-lawyer-posses/): Whether you are looking to buy real estate, file for bankruptcy, or divorce from your spouse, you will need a... - [Why You Need a Divorce Attorney by Your Side](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/why-you-need-a-divorce-attorney-by-your-side/): It is sad when a marriage comes to an end, but you will have to go through a divorce before... - [How to Get Rid of Unreasonably High Payments With Child Support Modification](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/how-to-get-rid-of-unreasonably-high-payments-with-child-support-modification/): Payments for child support in Florida are determined on the basis of several factors, such as parental income, parenting time,... - [Learn How a Real Estate Attorney in Miami Can Help You](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/learn-how-a-real-estate-attorney-in-miami-can-help-you/): Every business goes through its ups and downs. When there is a financial loss in the company, you have to... - [Adoption and Divorce: Who Gets The Children?](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/adoption-and-divorce-who-gets-the-children/): If you adopt a child and then divorce in Florida, your legal rights as an adopted parent are equivalent to... - [Bankruptcy Becoming An Option For Those Hit Hard By Pandemic](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/bankruptcy-becoming-an-option-for-those-hit-hard-by-pandemic/): CBS4’s Hank Tester spoke with attorney Patrick Cordero, whose firm is known for bankruptcy work. Article Link - [The Hidden Benefits of Declaring Corporate Bankruptcy](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/the-hidden-benefits-of-declaring-corporate-bankruptcy/): Every business must recognize the risks of corporate financial distress and bankruptcy and be prepared for the unthinkable. While there... - [How Does Bankruptcy Court Work in Florida?](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/how-does-bankruptcy-court-work-in-florida/): Bankruptcy is a legal process designed for individuals who are unable to repay their debts, and want to make a... - [How Is Custody Determined During a Divorce?](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/custody-determined-during-divorce-florida/): When divorcing couples in Florida disagree about child custody during divorce, the court will determine their time-sharing with the children.... - [Which Type of Bankruptcy Is Right for Me?](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/type-bankruptcy-right-me/): No single form of bankruptcy for Florida individuals and businesses is universally best. Your financial situation and goals will determine... - [What Are the Different Kinds of Bankruptcy?](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/different-types-bankruptcy/): Many people who struggle with an increasing level of unpayable debt will face this critical question: “Should I file for... - [Why You Should Declare Corporate Bankruptcy](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/declare-corporate-bankruptcy/): Corporate bankruptcy Chapter 11 is a protection offered to companies that are going through financial distress. In functional terms, this... - [I Am a Senior: Can I File for Bankruptcy?](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/senior-can-file-bankruptcy-senior-citizens/): Bankruptcy for senior citizens and retirees is a sensitive issue, and they should know their options to make a well-informed... - [Is a Prenup Agreement a Sure Thing?](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/florida-prenup-agreement-sure-thing/): Individuals who are planning to marry should know clearly what a prenup agreement is, and whether it makes sense to... - [Asset Division Following a Divorce](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/asset-division-during-divorce/): While dividing assets during a divorce, Florida courts will apply the theory of equitable division. Equitable is slightly different from... - [It’s My First Time in Florida Bankruptcy Court: What Do I Need To Know?](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/first-time-florida-bankruptcy-court-need-know/): When you are under significant financial debt, you may consider filing for bankruptcy in the United States bankruptcy court. While... - [Capital Assets and Investments Following Divorce: What You Need To Know](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/capital-assets-investments-following-divorce-need-know/): In a Florida divorce, once you identify which assets are marital and which are separate, you may have concerns about... - [What is Mortgage Modification and Why Does it Matter?](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/mortgage-modification-matter/): Your financial situation may go through its ups and downs, and there could be a time when you start falling... - [I Want to Move Out of State After a Divorce: What Do I Need to Know?](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/want-move-state-after-divorce-need-know/): Moving out of state after a divorce may sometimes be a necessity due to a compelling opportunity. If you are... - [Understanding Child Relocation Considerations Post-Divorce](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/understanding-child-relocation-considerations-post-divorce/): Relocating children after divorce requires you to follow a specific procedure prescribed under Florida law. This process applies when you... - [Three Surprising Facts About Dividing Business Assets During Divorce](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/three-surprising-facts-dividing-business-assets-during-divorce/): Dividing property in a divorce in Florida is one of the key issues that both parties must resolve, either through... - [What Same-Sex Couples Need to Know About Child Custody & Support](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/what-same-sex-couples-need-know-child-custody-support/): Same-sex marriages in Florida received legal recognition in 2015. Now LGBTQ couples can utilize the court system in Florida for... - [Six Facts to Know Before Signing a Prenup Agreement in Florida](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/six-facts-know-signing-florida-prenup-agreement/): Prenups aren’t simply pieces of paper to be signed, rather, they are complex legal documents. You may want a Florida... - [Little Known Ways to Maximize Your Home’s Value in a Short Sale](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/little-known-ways-maximize-homes-short-sale/): When a struggling homeowner is trying to avoid foreclosure, a short sale process may seem like a solid option. But... - [Who Gets to Keep the Pets in a Divorce?](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/pets-and-divorce-law-gets-keep-pets-divorce/): According to the recent National Pet Owners Survey, over 65 percent of Florida homeowners own at least one pet. When... - [What You Need to Know About Relocating Children After a Divorce](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/need-know-relocating-children-after-divorce/): In many cases, one parent may consider relocating the children after the divorce. But is it legal? Does Florida law... - [The Secret Effectiveness of Mortgage Modification](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/secret-effectiveness-mortgage-modification/): A mortgage modification or a loan modification refers to the arrangement where a borrower requests – and gets approved –... - [How to Fight a Foreclosure in Florida](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/fight-foreclosure-florida/): Are you living in fear of being served a foreclosure notice in Florida? Or are you already in foreclosure? Regardless... - [Three Signs Your Marriage Might Be Heading Towards Divorce](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/three-signs-marriage-might-heading-towards-divorce/): There are over 787,000 divorces in the United States each year. Each and every one of these broken marriages started... - ["Exclusive Use" Contracts: What are They?](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/exclusive-use-contract/): An exclusive use contract is a clause that’s generally used in commercial leases. What does “exclusive use” mean? It refers... - [How Do Courts Determine Custody?](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/courts-determine-custody-florida/): According to divorce and family laws in Florida, the courts determine child custody based on what would be in the... - [What is a Final Divorce Order?](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/what-is-a-final-divorce-order/): The final divorce order is the document that officially signifies the end of the marriage, returning both the spouses back... - [Legal Implications of Debt, Divorce, and Bankruptcy in Florida](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/legal-implications-debt-divorce-bankruptcy-in-florida/): Divorce is a difficult experience for anyone. Sometimes a divorce may even lead to bankruptcy. If you and spouse are... - [Retirement & Bankruptcy: How Does Bankruptcy Affect Retirement Plans?](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/retirement-and-bankruptcy-how-does-bankruptcy-affect-retirement-plans/): When you work your entire adult life, the prize at the end of the game is supposed to be a... - [What to Do If You are Sued by a Debt Collector](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/what-to-do-if-you-are-sued-by-a-debt-collector/): When you are in financial difficulty, it may seem impossible to keep making payment. What happens, however, when creditors run... - [Why It's Critical to Pick the Right Bankruptcy Lawyer](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/critical-pick-right-bankruptcy-lawyer/): Filing for bankruptcy isn’t an easy decision. Neither should be finding the right bankruptcy attorney. Bankruptcy has a severe impact... - [The Effects of Recent Purchases on a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Filing](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/effects-recent-purchases-chapter-7-bankruptcy-filing/): While filing for bankruptcy is a difficult decision to make, sometimes it is the only recourse for deep-rooted and complex... - [Tax Refunds and Bankruptcy: What You Need to Know](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/tax-refunds-and-bankruptcy-what-you-need-to-know/): As another year’s deadline for filing your taxes comes and goes, there are important considerations that need to be made.... - [¿Puedo mantener mi auto de lujo, RV y embarcación, al declararme en bancarrota bajo el capítulo 13 en la Florida?](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/puedo-mantener-mi-auto-de-lujo-rv-y-embarcacion-al-declararme-en-bancarrota-bajo-el-capitulo-13-en-la-florida/): Declararse en bancarrota es una decisión difícil. Al llenarse de deudas, usted puede pensar que su única opción es entregar... - [How Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Can Actually Raise Your Credit Score](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/how-chapter-7-can-raise-credit-score/): Managing personal finances and keeping on a budget doesn’t seem to be getting any easier. You are being constantly bombarded... - [¿CÓMO LA BANCARROTA AFECTA LAS CALIFICACIONES DE CRÉDITO?](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/como-la-bancarrota-afecta-las-calificaciones-de-credito/): Declararse en quiebra o en bancarrota es una decisión compleja. Puede parecer que tomar este camino implica que su mundo... - [Loan Modification Mistakes: How to Fight Back When the Bank Makes a Mistake](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/loan-modification-mistakes-how-to-fight-back-when-the-bank-makes-a-mistake/): Having your home foreclosed on by your mortgage lender is an experience no one should have to face. But what... - [Is My Child’s College Savings Account Protected in a Bankruptcy?](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/college-savings-plans-and-bankruptcy-my-child-savings-protected/): Filing for bankruptcy is often a tough decision to make. However, with rising debts and difficulties making important payments, it... - [What Exactly Is Defined as an Asset When Filing for Bankruptcy Protection?](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/exactly-asset-filing-bankruptcy-protection/): When a person files for bankruptcy, they are hoping for the stress of insurmountable debt to disappear. Depending on which... - [Same Sex Divorce in Florida: Here's What You Need to Know](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/same-sex-divorce-in-fl/): Same-sex marriage was legally recognized in the state of Florida on Jan. 6, 2015. This landmark ruling allowed all couples... - [7 DATOS Básicos acerca de la corte DE BANCARROTA DE MIAMI-DADE](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/7-datos-basicos-la-corte-de-bancarrota-de-miami-dade/): A pesar de que muchas personas han escuchado hablar de las cortes de bancarrota en los Estados Unidos, algunas no... - [Why Divorces Can Be Empowering](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/why-divorces-can-be-empowering/): Far too often, divorce is painted in a negative light. When people think of divorce, they tend to visualize broken... - [Moving Out After Divorce: Are You Abandoning Family and Assets?](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/moving-out-after-divorce-abandoning-family-assets/): Divorce can be an extremely difficult time. With so much happening, it can seem impossible to think clearly. This is... - [Smart Technology and Divorce - Can a smart home hurt your divorce case?](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/smart-technology-and-divorce-can-a-smart-home-hurt-your-divorce-case/): We live in a technologically advanced time. It seems as if everything in our lives is interconnected. From our smartphones,... - [The Best Ways to Rebuild Your Credit After a Bankruptcy](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/best-ways-rebuild-credit-after-bankruptcy/): Bankruptcy doesn’t have to be a bad thing. Bankruptcy is your chance to break away from the burden of crushing... - [Bankruptcy and Court Fines: What You Need to Know](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/bankruptcy-and-court-fines-need-know/): Struggling with paying bills can be stressful. But if you are assessed with government fines your situation can get out... - [Can You Inherit Your Parent’s Debt After Their Death?](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/inherit-parents-debt-after-they-die/): When a parent dies, there are a host of issues their children are forced to deal with. First and foremost... - [What to Know About Rehabilitative Alimony in Florida](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/what-to-know-about-rehabilitative-alimony-in-fl/): When going through a divorce, one of the parties may seek alimony payments to help them financially. As the realities... - [How Does Retroactive Child Support Work in Florida?](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/retroactive-child-support-fl/): When a judge orders a parent to pay child support, the other parent may petition for additional funds for the... - [Student Loan Debt and Bankruptcy: What Are Your Options?](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/student-debt-bankruptcy/): No one plans to declare bankruptcy. But, as you move through life and expenses pile up, sometimes it becomes the... - [How Does Bankruptcy Affect Credit Ratings?](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/bankruptcy-credit-ratings/): Filing for bankruptcy is a special decision. Bankruptcy may seem like your whole world is crashing down on top of... - [What Is the Florida Alimony Garnishment Law?](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/florida-alimony-garnishment-law/): A lot of myths circulate about garnishments for alimony orders. Many people hear that only child support payments can be... - [What Is A Wrongful Foreclosure](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/wrongful-foreclosure/): Having your home foreclosed upon by your mortgage lender is an experience no one ever wishes to have. But what... - [How To Keep Your Florida Marital Settlement Agreement Clear And Concise](https://attorneycordero.com/blog/keep-marital-settlement-agreement-concise/): Divorces can be messy. Often they are fraught with feelings of anger and ill-will. 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Our Miami Law Office’s management plays a pivotal role in our success. Here are our management leaders: Tania Garcia Senior Paralegal Administrator Debt Settlement Department Head Litigation Support Supervisor Ally Pedrayes Main Lead Administrator Director Of Executive Management Team Head Inter-staff Manager Ryan Cordero Controller Post-Court Administration Financial Legal Op. Planning --- - Published: 2025-10-03 - Modified: 2026-01-08 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/about/our-team/attorneys/ryan-l-cordero/ You are here» BIOGRAPHY Ryan Cordero serves as Controller at The Law Offices of Patrick Cordero, P. A. , where he oversees the Firm’s financial record-keeping and strategy while also supporting legal operations with a focus on post-court administration. In this dual capacity, he is committed to enhancing operational efficiency across both accounting and legal processes, ensuring the Firm continues to deliver high-quality service with precision, accountability, and client-focused execution. Ryan is a Certified Public Accountant, actively licensed in the state of Florida. He began his career working in multinational public accounting firms, conducting external audits for public, private, and nonprofit entities. He later transitioned into consulting roles centered on risk management and process controls, helping organizations strengthen governance and maintain compliance over financial reporting and operational workflows. Most recently, he was part of the corporate accounting team for a major South Florida–based public company, where he was responsible for consolidated financial reporting with an emphasis on both external and internal reporting requirements. Ryan earned his Bachelor of Business Administration with a minor in Political Science from the University of Notre Dame, graduating cum laude. Having been exposed to the legal profession and consumer bankruptcy industry from an early age, he brings strong technical expertise and a deep commitment to supporting the Firm’s mission of serving clients with integrity and care. Languages English Spanish --- - Published: 2025-10-03 - Modified: 2025-12-26 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/about/our-team/attorneys/tania-garcia/ You are here» LINKEDIN EMAIL BIOGRAPHY Ms. Tania Garcia graduated from Jones College in 1987 with a degree from their Legal Secretary Program. From 1987 to 2001, Tania has been employed in the legal field until 2001. In 2001, Tania Garcia joined The Law Offices of Patrick L. Cordero P. A. , as a paralegal, and after 19 years of hard work and earning the respect from her colleagues and clients, she is currently the Senior Paralegal Administrator and Personal Assistant to Mr. Cordero. She is known for her compassion for clients and uses her unique knowledge and experience in assisting both the staff and clients. She also provides the attorneys in our bankruptcy law practice with solid and reliable legal assistance and serves as a listening ear to our clients. In addition to her bankruptcy law experience, her specialty in the firm is handling small claims actions in the Debt Settlement Department. Currently, she is the head administrator for that department. In addition to all of her traits, she also deals, on a daily basis, issues with she has also foreclosure defense to stop it, real estate and family law. Bankruptcy and Family Law clients are often faced with a variety of emotional situations. Tania excels in this area. She presents a calm, helpful and supportive demeanor as she handles their immediate needs, while patiently explaining procedures. While our clients experience open and frequent communication with their attorney, she is an additional liaison between the client and our firm.... --- - Published: 2025-02-11 - Modified: 2026-01-09 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/about/our-team/attorneys/jannette-pineiro-esq/ You are here» LINKEDIN FLA. BAR EMAIL BIOGRAPHY Jannette Pineiro is a local and beloved immigration attorney located here in Miami. Prior to coming to the United States, she was an attorney in Cuba and received her JD degree from the University of Havana in 1993. After coming to the United States, she studied at the University of Miami and received her LLM in International Comparative Law in 2009. In 2016, she clerked for the Honorable Judge Frank Shepherd as part of a judicial internship for the Third District Court of Appeal while attending law school here in Miami. Jannette graduated and received her JD degree from St. Thomas University School of Law in 2016. She is a licensed attorney in the State of Florida and in the District of Columbia. Lastly, Ms. Pineiro is a proud member of AILA (American Immigration Lawyers Association) and the National Immigration Project. Areas of Practice Immigration Law Bar Admissions Florida, 2019 U. S. District of Columbia Languages English Spanish Contact Jpineiropa@gmail. com +1 (786) 905-9555 --- - Published: 2023-10-11 - Modified: 2026-04-20 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/ Miami Bankruptcy Attorneys THE LARGEST CONSUMER BANKRUPTCY FILING FIRM IN MIAMI-DADE, BROWARD AND IN THE STATE OF FLORIDA. SCHEDULE YOUR FREE CONSULTATION TODAY! CONTACT US (305) 267-3376 BANKRUPTCY FORECLOSURE REAL ESTATE FAMILY LAW MIAMI BANKRUPTCY ATTORNEYS Chapter 7 & Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Read More $0 DOWN! CALL NOW 305-CORDERO (267-3376) YEARS OFEXPERIENCE 0 + CHAPTER 7 BANKRUPTCY FILINGS 0 + GREAT ATTORNEYS 0 + CHAPTER 13 BANKRUPTCY FILINGS 0 + WELCOME TO THE LAW OFFICES OF PATRICK CORDERO “We Make it Fast, Simple and Affordable! ” WHO WE ARE... The Law Offices of Patrick L. Cordero, PA Attorneys at Law, is an established Miami law firm, and we are here to help clients reach favorable results. Primarily, we are known for our bankruptcy work, but we also handle real estate issues such as modifications, foreclosure defense, closings and other related issues. Moreover, we also have an established family law practice. With a staff of more than 50 members, we are dedicated to representing people who need simple and direct answers. We understand that you did not ask to be in this situation and that it could have been created by an illness, an accident, family issues or other situations. We can also assist you with other areas of law such as loan modifications, foreclosure and family law matters. At the Law Offices of Patrick L. Cordero, PA Attorneys at Law, we simply work to help people like you. Over the years, the office has expanded to become one of the... --- - Published: 2020-05-07 - Modified: 2025-12-19 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/miami-lawyer-practice-areas/ Our practice areas include the following: Bankruptcy debt settlement Debt Settlement Foreclosure Real Estate Family Law Whether you are looking for divorce attorneys or bankruptcy lawyers, our law firm has the best minds in Miami to help you with your legal matters. --- - Published: 2020-05-07 - Modified: 2026-01-30 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/miami-lawyer-practice-areas/foreclosure/foreclosure-and-mortgage-modifications/ You are here» THE LAW OFFICES OF Patrick Cordero ______________________We Can Help Mortgage Modifications & Foreclosures Our clients have been surprised to find out that the bankruptcy laws are more helpful than they first realized. One of the few advantages in filing for bankruptcy is that it can stop the foreclosure process. This gives the debtor a chance to start paying their arrearage back, little by little. This plan, like a Chapter 13 bankruptcy, typically lasts five years and would include any unpaid property taxes, association arrearages, equity loans, second mortgages and lines of credit. Our clients have been relieved to know that by filing for bankruptcy, they are able to save their home in a Chapter 13 bankruptcy and can eliminate most or all of their credit card debt. Thus, there is a double benefit in filing for bankruptcy — you can save your home and pay off your credit card debt. You then have only one payment to make to the court to satisfy your debts. Patrick Cordero personally understands that no one wins when your home is foreclosed on — not the bank, not the real estate market and certainly not you. In today’s complex and tough economic environment, everyone’s goal is to keep you in your home, which means that there are opportunities and options you can explore to avoid foreclosures, reduce your monthly payments, defer your debt or lock down a better interest rate. At The Miami Law Offices of Patrick L. Cordero, PA Attorneys... --- - Published: 2020-05-03 - Modified: 2021-03-25 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/inicio/ You are here» LAS OFICINAS DE DERECHO DE Patrick Cordero ______________________Los Beneficios de Contar con un Abogado Experto en Bancarrota El bufete de Patrick L. Cordero, PA Attorneys at Law, es un reconocido bufete de Miami, y estamos a disposición de los clientes para ayudarlos a obtener resultados favorables. Somos reconocidos principalmente por nuestro trabajo en bancarrotas, pero también manejamos asuntos de bienes raíces, como modificaciones, defensas, cierres y otros temas relacionados con ejecuciones hipotecarias. Además, tenemos una trayectoria reconocida en asuntos de derecho de familia. El abogado principal Patrick Cordero es muy reconocido en los condados de Miami-Dade, Broward y Monroe. Él y su equipo de abogados se concentran en el logro de resultados para que usted obtenga los mayores beneficios. Ofrecemos una amplia experiencia y conocimiento en todas las áreas legales que manejamos, y estamos preparados para tomar la iniciativa a fin de resolver sus asuntos legales. Nuestras areas de especializacion Obtenga más información sobre cada una de nuestras áreas de especialización: Bancarrota Modificaciones Bienes raíces Derecho de familia El programa MMM Opciones sencillas para sus asuntos legales Cuando usted se acerca a nuestro bufete con alguna inquietud, nuestros abogados le ayudarán a disiparla y reunirán la información necesaria para poder satisfacer sus necesidades. No dude en acercarse a nuestro bufete para hacer su primera consulta. Venga y aproveche nuestra consulta gratuita para determinar si lo podemos representar para resolver su asunto legal de la mejor manera. Programe su consulta gratuita Contáctenos al 305-445-4855 para programar su consulta gratuita.... --- - Published: 2020-04-30 - Modified: 2025-10-07 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/about/our-team/attorneys/management-old/ You are here» THE LAW OFFICES OF PATRICK CORDERO MEET OUR MANAGEMENT TEAM ______________________We are a one-stop solution when you want to find the bankruptcy, family law, and debt settlement or real estate lawyers. Our Miami Law Office’s management plays a pivotal role in our success. Here are our management leaders:Ms. Tania Garcia graduated from Jones College in 1987 with a degree from their Legal Secretary Program. From 1987 to 2001, Tania has been employed in the legal field until 2001... Tania GarciaSENIOR PARALEGAL ADMINISTRATOR DEBT SETTLEMENT DEPARTMENT HEAD LITIGATION SUPPORT SUPERVISORAlly Pedrayes is the Main Lead Administrator in the bankruptcy section for both Chapter 7 department and Chapter 13 department... Ally PedrayesMAIN LEAD ADMINISTRATOR DIRECTOR OF EXECUTIVE MANAGEMENT TEAM HEAD INTER-STAFF MANAGERAlly Pedrayes is the Main Lead Administrator in the bankruptcy section for both Chapter 7 department and Chapter 13 department... Ryan L. Cordero, CPACONTROLLERPOST-COURT ADMINISTRATIONFINANCIAL LEGAL OP. PLANNING --- - Published: 2020-04-30 - Modified: 2025-10-03 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/about/our-team/attorneys/tania-garcia-old/ You are here » LINKEDIN EMAIL BIOGRAPHY Ms. Tania Garcia graduated from Jones College in 1987 with a degree from their Legal Secretary Program. From 1987 to 2001, Tania has been employed in the legal field until 2001. In 2001, Tania Garcia joined The Law Offices of Patrick L. Cordero P. A. , as a paralegal, and after 19 years of hard work and earning the respect from her colleagues and clients, she is currently the Senior Paralegal Administrator and Personal Assistant to Mr. Cordero. She is known for her compassion for clients and uses her unique knowledge and experience in assisting both the staff and clients. She also provides the attorneys in our bankruptcy law practice with solid and reliable legal assistance and serves as a listening ear to our clients. In addition to her bankruptcy law experience, her specialty in the firm is handling small claims actions in the Debt Settlement Department. Currently, she is the head administrator for that department. In addition to all of her traits, she also deals, on a daily basis, issues with she has also foreclosure defense to stop it, real estate and family law. Bankruptcy and Family Law clients are often faced with a variety of emotional situations. Tania excels in this area. She presents a calm, helpful and supportive demeanor as she handles their immediate needs, while patiently explaining procedures. While our clients experience open and frequent communication with their attorney, she is an additional liaison between the client and our... --- - Published: 2020-04-30 - Modified: 2026-01-08 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/about/our-team/attorneys/ally-pedrayes/ You are here» LINKEDIN EMAIL BIOGRAPHY Ally Pedrayes is the Main Lead Administrator in the bankruptcy section for both Chapter 7 department and Ch. 13 department. Moreover, her responsibilities involve not only handling the day to day functional activities including the process of getting the files prepared for court on behalf of attorneys and lawyers, she also tends to the management core duties with the staff administration subdivision. Since 2000, she has been the director of the Executive Management team which governs the entire staff employed with the Law Offices of Patrick L. Cordero P. A. Aside from her professional services, her passion and intuitive mind has been consistent to the firm's vision and goals. She has balanced the necessary expectations of the staff and client care. She has focused in making certain that client care and legal service are the main responsibilities in every step taken by the staff. Additionally, Mrs. Pedrayes over the years, has been successful in levitating the law firm's infrastructure by creating administrative systems involving business operations, monitoring and measuring client satisfaction, developing real estate portal systems, and streamlining in-house documentation forms. Perhaps her most honorary management skills are her tactfulness and her persuasion to lead her employees in the right and proper direction in the expectations necessary to keep a law firm at the quality level the clients deserve. Languages English Spanish Contact Allyp@pcorderolaw. com +1 305 267 3376 --- - Published: 2020-04-21 - Modified: 2026-01-08 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/miami-lawyer-practice-areas/debt-settlement/ You are here» THE LAW OFFICES OF PATRICK CORDERO ______________________DEBT SETTLEMENT OPTIONS OVERVIEW Over the last 30 years, the Law Offices of Patrick L. Cordero has been helping and assisting clients in many ways. We have involved in small and big matters and still giving the same attention that you desire in situations that you want resolved. At times, many do not know how to approach a debt that you are having problems in paying and it's sometimes difficult to talk or explain your situation to anyone, including an attorney. As a lawyer, it's our duty to help you. We are aware, and most of all, attentive of your need for assistance, big or small. Do not think your problem doesn't have a solution or end to it. Give us a try. We will listen to you and give you the best options available to resolve whatever debt or debt collector-related problem you have. Below are options for someone that has only one debt or two, bankruptcy may not be the first choice and looking for debt settlement options.   LAWSUITS Most people do not want to be sued when there is a debt owed. They acknowledge that the debt is owed an unable to pay or come to terms with the creditor. Moreover, it has happened that you are okay with everything else, but this one debt or lawsuit. If your faced with a lawsuit, regardless if it just started or right in the middle of it, we can... --- - Published: 2020-04-15 - Modified: 2021-03-25 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/about/our-team/attorneys/jose-sanchez/ You are here» LINKEDIN FLA. BAR EMAIL BIOGRAPHY Jose M. Sanchez is an experienced attorney with a strong background in business-related transactions. His career as a lawyer in Miami spans over twenty-five years and has a broad spectrum of industries that include domestic and international businesses, and the best of works in the private and public sectors. As V. P. and Chief Counsel, he was instrumental in the expansion, building, and management of a multinational European company in South Florida. He also played a central role in the creation and evolution of a national company, significantly contributing to its corporate development, sales and marketing platform, and internal infrastructure. He has an in-depth understanding of many types of business, real estate, and leasing agreements, and various business structures. He has been involved in various extra-professional and community organizations as a leader and active participant. He served as Director and Secretary of the Broward County Hispanic Bar Association, and Director of the Florida Adopt-A-Scholar Foundation. He has served as Chair on various committees, and is an annual participant in various charitable organization events. He has volunteered as a coach in local youth sports leagues in Miami-Dade County. He has built his education, experience, and career in a multicultural environment, and is fully bilingual in English and Spanish. He earned his B. A. degree from Florida International University in 1990, and his J. D. degree from St. Thomas University School of Law in 1993. He is admitted to practice law in Florida, including... --- - Published: 2020-04-15 - Modified: 2021-09-11 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/about/our-team/attorneys/sean-cordero/ You are here» LINKEDIN FLA. BAR EMAIL BIOGRAPHY Sean Cordero has been part of the Cordero bankruptcy family practice from his early years. For the past eight years, not only has he developed an understanding of the concept of hard work and dedication to the legal representation of clients with consumer debt issues, he also recognizes the special responsibility attorneys have in advising and guiding clients in the right direction. After graduating from Southern Methodist University (SMU) with a Bachelor's degree (Special Honors), in Finance at the acclaimed Cox School of Business, and has continued the Cordero family tradition of receiving his law degree from St. Thomas School of Law located in Miami, Florida. During his law school career, he has taken advantage in working for the law firm and learning the complicated consumer bankruptcy system, concentrating in both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 court litigation departments. Mr. Cordero also received numerous awards at St. Thomas School of law, including Dean's list and Top Student list accomplishments. Currently, he is employed as one of the lead attorneys in the Chapter 13 support litigation, directing his concentration in the areas of Trustee review and confirmations. He will be focusing on court calendars, including the tri-county areas, Dade, Broward, and West Palm Beach counties. He will also be responsible for debt settlement matters, as well as civil disputes which will be resolved in bankruptcy court. Areas of Practice Consumer Bankruptcy, Chapter 7 & Chapter 13 Court litigation Support Student loan solutions Bar... --- - Published: 2020-04-15 - Modified: 2026-01-08 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/about/our-team/attorneys/stephen-parra/ You are here» LINKEDIN FLA. BAR EMAIL BIOGRAPHY A man of many top talents, Stephen started working with us as a middle school student working his summer vacations in the mail department and helping his father Patrick with his box of files on court days. After graduating from Miami Palmetto Senior High in 2004 he took a break for several years to pursue degrees and professional licenses in architecture and law and joined the firm as a full time attorney in 2020. Stephen holds a bachelor’s degree from New York University, a Master’s Degree in Architecture from Florida International University, a Juris Doctor degree from St. Thomas University, is a Florida licensed architect, and a Florida licensed attorney, and spends his free time thinking of the best things to add to this list. Areas of Practice Bankruptcy Modification Logistics Bar Admissions Florida, 2018 Education New York University Bachelors Degree Florida International University Masters Degree St. Thomas University Juris Doctorate Degree Other Specialties Florida Licensed Architect Languages English Spanish Contact Stephenp@pcorderolaw. com +1 305 267 3376 --- - Published: 2020-04-15 - Modified: 2026-01-08 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/shows/ As one of the biggest law firms in Miami dealing with bankruptcy cases, we understand our responsibilities. To offer you more legal updates our lawyers constantly keep working. Whether it is our affordable service or a show on Facebook Live, we are always working towards betterment! --- - Published: 2020-04-15 - Modified: 2026-01-08 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/about/our-team/attorneys/marianela-luporini/ You are here» LINKEDIN FLA. BAR EMAIL BIOGRAPHY   Marianela Luporini, Esq. was born in Rosario, Argentina and came to Miami, Florida when she was 10 years old. Graduated with Honors from Miami-Dade College with a degree in Criminal Justice in 2014. Marianela continue with her education, perusing a Juris Doctorate from St. Thomas University and graduated in 2018. During her time at St. Thomas School of Law, Marianela received multiple Dean’s List awards and CALI Excellence for the Future Award in Florida Constitutional Law and Florida Civil Practice. Marianela interned at the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s office, where she felt more in love with the professional and the study of law. Additionally, she dedicated her last year in law school to providing over 200 plus hours in pro-bono work, at the Department of Children’s and Families, receiving St Thomas Pro-Bono Commendation Certificate, in recognition for her outstanding Pro-Bono Work. Once out of law school her focused was in the field of property foreclosure and bankruptcy and quickly became skilled in the field. Currently working in the biggest consumer bankruptcy firm in Florida.     Areas of Practice Real Estate Bankruptcy Civil Disputes and Settlements Civil Court Litigation Representation Languages English Spanish Contact Marianelal@pcorderolaw. com +1 305 267 3376 --- - Published: 2020-04-15 - Modified: 2021-03-25 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/about/our-team/attorneys/valeska-casanova-chacon/ You are here» LINKEDIN FLA. BAR EMAIL BIOGRAPHY Valeska Casanova-Chacon is among the best attorneys in the state with 20 years of experience handling Family Law related cases including uncontested and contested dissolution matter, time sharing, paternity, child support, alimony, guardianships and probate matters. Ms. Casanova-Chacon graduated from Florida International University with a Bachelor Degree in Criminal Justice and from Saint Thomas College of Law with a Juris Doctorate Degree. Areas of Practice Family Law Dependency Probate and Guardianship's Bar Admissions Florida, 1999 Education St Thomas University School of Law, Miami, Florida J. D. Florida International University, Miami, Florida B. S. Major: Criminal Justice Classes/Seminars Business Law and Legal Ethics, Atlantis University Past Employment Positions Law Office of Valeska Chacon, Attorney, 1999 – 2017 Menendez Management, HR Director, 1986 – 2000 Languages English Spanish Contact Valeskacc@pcorderolaw. com +1 305 267 3376 --- - Published: 2020-04-14 - Modified: 2026-01-08 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/about/our-team/attorneys/miriam-marenco/ You are here» LINKEDIN FLA. BAR EMAIL BIOGRAPHY Miriam Marenco is a Lead Associate at the Law Offices of Patrick L. Cordero, P. A. She is the head bankruptcy lawyer over-seeing bankruptcy cases filed by our Firm. Ms. Marenco focuses primarily on the best representation of debtors in Miami chapter 13 bankruptcy cases. Ms. Marenco has vast experience in the representation of debtors in all stages of the bankruptcy process. She has successfully handled complex bankruptcy proceedings including defense of Motions, objections to Chapter 13 plan confirmations, objections to discharge, evidentiary hearings, negotiations with trustees and creditors, and appellate procedures. Ms. Marenco is dedicated to excellence in the representation of our clients. She is passionate about helping clients protect their rights and achieve effective solutions to their financial burdens. Ms. Marenco’s extensive experience combined with her genuine desire to make a difference in our clients’ lives has helped thousands of our clients overcome difficult financial circumstances and achieve a fresh start. In her personal time, Ms. Marenco enjoys spending time with her family and friends. Ms. Marenco graduated with Honors from Florida International University with a Bachelor Degree in Business Management with a Minor in Political Science. She also received her law degree from the Florida International University. Ms. Marenco is admitted to practice law in the State of Florida and the US District Court for the Southern District of Florida. Areas of Practice Consumer Bankruptcy with an emphasis in Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Debt Relief Repossession Wage Garnishment Mortgage Modification... --- - Published: 2020-04-06 - Modified: 2026-04-20 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/miami-lawyer-practice-areas/bankruptcy/ You are here» CHAPTER 7 BANKRUPTCY ATTORNEY, MIAMI FLORIDA Among the most popular options for clients seeking bankruptcy protection to eliminate debt, Chapter 7 sells off the debtor’s assets and distributes those funds to creditors in exchange for discharging the debt. In practice, The Law Offices of Patrick L. Cordero, PA Attorneys at Law, can help make sure that key assets such as your home or your retirement savings are insulated from the sell-off, allowing you to preserve a future even as you build a new financial beginning. Our firm is where you will find the best bankruptcy attorney in Miami. They will work closely with you to evaluate your situation, your assets and your goals to find bankruptcy protection options that meet your needs. For many clients, Chapter 7 bankruptcy is a natural fit, eliminating or reducing debt, collections and lawsuits while giving you options to protect your home, future and family. We will also help you work to protect your: Home and investment home Automobile Retirement — 401(k), IRAs, pensions Social Security Workers’ compensation benefits Wages Businesses (Corporations) Consult Personally With A Miami Bankruptcy Attorney Take advantage of our free initial consultation and flexible payment plans to affordably understand and pursue your rights under Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Contact us today to schedule an appointment. We also assist Spanish-speaking clients. Experienced And Personalized Legal Support From Our Bankruptcy Attorney Miami Team Each bankruptcy attorney Miami, from our team takes a hands-on approach to client service. From your free initial... --- - Published: 2020-04-06 - Modified: 2026-01-08 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/miami-lawyer-practice-areas/foreclosure/ You are here» THE LAW OFFICES OF PATRICK CORDERO ______________________FORECLOSURE LAWYERS OFFERING EFFECTIVE DEFENSE The thought of losing your largest asset and the centerpiece of your family life — your home — is extremely frightening for most people. Even with the burst of the housing bubble and foreclosures on the rise, no one wants to become another statistic and risk losing something you have worked so hard to achieve. Fortunately, there are legal options that can provide foreclosure defense to people who are experiencing difficulties with debt and meeting their mortgage payments. Throughout South Florida, people seek out The Law Offices of Patrick L. Cordero, PA Attorneys at Law, because of our experience and skill when it comes to helping people with foreclosure defense and mortgage modification issues. We are here to help you feel more financially secure in your life so you do not have to worry about losing the roof over your head. Our foreclosure lawyers serve clients throughout the Miami area with all types of foreclosure defense situations, including those involving foreclosure alternatives such as: Selling the home and buying a home that now fits your financial situation Utilizing the short sale option Filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy Rolling your mortgage payments into a Chapter 13 payment plan Negotiating for a loan or mortgage modification Strategic mortgage default We can also help see if a lender has violated the Fair Lending Act and advise you of your homeowner’s rights if the foreclosure process is not being followed... --- - Published: 2020-04-06 - Modified: 2026-01-30 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/family-law/ You are here» THE LAW OFFICES OF PATRICK CORDERO ______________________ FAMILY LAW ATTORNEYS WITH DECADES EXPERIENCE The Law Offices of Patrick L. Cordero, PA Attorneys at Law, handles any type of family law matter in the state of Florida. Our practice includes equitable distribution matters, alimony, time sharing, relocation, child support cases, drafting and negotiation of prenuptial/post-nuptial agreements, modification actions and more. We offer a no-obligation consultation. You can meet with our attorneys and they will determine if we can effectively represent you in your family law case. Call 305-445-4855 today to schedule a meeting. We are attuned to the needs of our clients and committed to professional and ethical superiority in attaining excellent results. Whether it is a simple uncontested divorce or a complex disputed paternity matter, our law firm can help you achieve maximum results. We handle: Child support: In Florida, guidelines are used to determine child support payments. We review the guidelines and identify if there should be any deviation. Child custody: Parental relocation: If one parent needs to relocate, it could affect custody. We help parents with the legal process of relocating Prenuptial agreement: Sometime individuals choose to have prenuptial agreements drafted to protect assets or inheritance when entering into a marriage. If you are considering this, our attorneys will advise on drafting an agreement. Modifications: If a change needs to be made after your divorce settlement is finalized, we can help. this may include custody modification, child support modification or alimony modification. Divorce: We assist... --- - Published: 2020-04-06 - Modified: 2026-01-08 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/miami-lawyer-practice-areas/real-estate/ You are here» THE LAW OFFICES OF Patrick Cordero ______________________REAL ESTATE ATTORNEYS WITH SOUTH FLORIDA EXPERIENCE Our clients have been surprised to find out that the bankruptcy laws are more helpful than they first realized. One of the few advantages in filing for bankruptcy is that it can stop the foreclosure process. This gives the debtor a chance to start paying their arrearage back, little by little. This plan, like a Chapter 13 bankruptcy, typically lasts five years and would include any unpaid property taxes, association arrearages, equity loans, second mortgages and lines of credit. Our clients have been relieved to know that by filing for bankruptcy, they are able to save their home in a Chapter 13 bankruptcy and can eliminate most or all of their credit card debt. Thus, there is a double benefit in filing for bankruptcy — you can save your home and pay off your credit card debt. You then have only one payment to make to the court to satisfy your debts. Patrick Cordero personally understands that no one wins when your home is foreclosed on — not the bank, not the real estate market and certainly not you. In today’s complex and tough economic environment, everyone’s goal is to keep you in your home, which means that there are opportunities and options you can explore to avoid foreclosures, reduce your monthly payments, defer your debt or lock down a better interest rate. At The Miami Law Offices of Patrick L. Cordero, PA Attorneys... --- - Published: 2017-10-07 - Modified: 2020-07-20 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/thank-you/ Thank you for contacting Attorney Cordero Laws. We will be in touch shortly. If you need immediate assistance, please call our office at 305-445-4855 --- - Published: 2017-09-29 - Modified: 2026-01-30 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/miami-lawyer-practice-areas/familylaw/divorce-lawyers/ You are here» South Florida’s Premier Divoce Lawyers Divorce is a multistep process. As you go through divorce or legal separation, it is important to have a strong legal advocate by your side. At The Law Offices of Patrick L. Cordero, PA Attorneys at Law, we represent men and women throughout the Miami area in divorce. Our attorneys work hands-on with clients and take the time to listen to what you have to say about your situation and what you wish to accomplish. Serving Your Divorce Needs We work with couples in uncontested and contested divorce cases (also called dissolution of marriage). Regardless of your needs, we are here to help. Our lawyers will explain the divorce process and work through issues that may arise concerning: Property division: Including the division of assets, debts and marital property. We also explain the differences between separate and marital property. Alimony: Your situation may or may not involve alimony (sometimes called spousal support). If it does, we will explain the types of alimony and how they relate to your divorce case. Uncontested And Contested Divorce Representation If you and your spouse agree on all (or most) of the terms of your divorce, the process can be fairly straightforward with divorce mediation. We can review documents and identify issues that may arise in the future. If your divorce is contested and you are involved in a complex dispute, including domestic violence, we will help bring clarity to the situation by providing aggressive representation. We... --- - Published: 2017-09-29 - Modified: 2021-03-25 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/miami-lawyer-practice-areas/familylaw/florida-property-division/ You are here» Dividing Property Fairly During Divorce Dividing your real estate, assets and debts in the divorce process isn’t always straightforward — especially if you and your spouse disagree on how property should be divided. Most often, you need an attorney to assist with issues that arise concerning asset and debt division. You can turn to The Law Offices of Patrick L. Cordero, PA Attorneys at Law, for guidance, support and advocacy. We are ready to work with you to help reach a fair divorce settlement. Our lawyers work with clients in Miami and throughout South Florida in divorce, property division and related family law issues. We offer comprehensive legal representation for our clients. Dividing Assets And Debts In A Property Settlement Florida is an equitable distribution state (not a community property state) when it comes to property division, which means that property is divided fairly in divorce. It is important to understand that “fairly” does not always mean “equally. ” If you and your spouse cannot reach an agreement, the court will look at your situation and make a fair decision based on the circumstances of your case. We can help with valuating your estate, including asset and business valuation. Once the value of your property is determined, we can explain how the unique circumstances of your situation could impact the court’s decision. A Unique Approach To Every Case One of the numerous benefits to working with The Law Offices of Patrick L. Cordero, PA Attorneys at Law,... --- - Published: 2017-09-29 - Modified: 2025-12-19 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/miami-lawyer-practice-areas/familylaw/alimony-spousal-support/ You are here» Alimony & Spousal Support During Divorce It’s not uncommon to have questions about support obligations in divorce, including specific questions about alimony. If you are going through divorce, this is probably a concern you have. At The Law Offices of Patrick L. Cordero, PA Attorneys at Law, we can help you through the divorce process and in determining how alimony may affect your situation. Located in Miami, our firm serves clients throughout South Florida in family law matters. We represent men and women in divorce, property division, child custody and all related issues. When working with our team of experienced lawyers, you get our full attention — all the time. How Is Alimony (Spousal Support) Determined In Florida? The court will consider several factors when determining whether to order alimony payments. They include: The length of the marriage The need for/ability to pay alimony The health of both parties The ability of both spouses to support themselves Other factors could affect alimony, including child custody and child support. While there are specific guidelines for support obligations, judges have discretion when ordering alimony. We will work to protect your rights and make sure that a fair divorce settlement is reached. Questions About Alimony? Contact Our Attorneys And Schedule Your Free Consult. We do not charge for initial consultations. Come into our firm and take advantage of your ability to meet with a lawyer to discuss your situation. You can contact us at 305-445-4855. We serve clients in Miami... --- - Published: 2017-09-29 - Modified: 2025-12-19 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/miami-lawyer-practice-areas/familylaw/child-support/ You are here» Why Should You Use an Attorney During Child Support Cases Child support issues are fairly straightforward, but without help from a lawyer, you might run into issues that could be costly to fix. The attorneys at our firm take an educational approach to working with clients and the necessary time to explain child support laws in Florida. The Law Offices of Patrick L. Cordero, PA Attorneys at Law, has a strong divorce and family law practice. We work with men and women throughout South Florida in cases involving child support, parenting time/time-sharing and more. If you are involved in a dispute, we work to bring clarity and help defuse any issues that could cause challenges in the future. Child Support Payments In Divorce, Separation And More Child support issues can arise during divorce or separation and in situations where unwed parents decide to split. Florida uses child support guidelines to determine payment amounts. While child support calculators can be used to determine the payment amount, it is still important that you have a lawyer review your case. Deviations from child support guidelines are sometimes necessary. If your situation includes unique circumstances that may involve a deviation, we can help. The lawyers at our firm offer comprehensive representation for child support, child support enforcement, child custody and all related issues. Schedule Your First Meeting — It’s On Us There’s no charge for your first consultation. Contact our team by calling 305-445-4855 or by completing a short contact form.... --- - Published: 2017-09-29 - Modified: 2025-12-19 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/miami-lawyer-practice-areas/familylaw/child-custody/ You are here» Experienced Child Custody Attorneys Your kids are the most important people in your divorce, and when changes happen that affect their best interests, you want to be sure the negative impact is as minimal as possible. At The Law Offices of Patrick L. Cordero, PA Attorneys at Law, we work closely with our clients to help make custody changes as seamless as we can. Our family lawyers offer straightforward advice and take a hands-on approach to representing family law clients. We will take the time to explain custody laws, what the courts will look at when determining custody, how your divorce affects the situation and what the likely outcome will be. Factors The Courts Consider In Custody Cases Florida courts will look at several factors when approving a custody agreement. A judge will look at who is best suited to care for the child, whether the child has special needs, the child’s activities and after-school care, and more. Ultimately, the judge will make a decision that he or she feels is in the best interests of the child. A parenting time plan is then created, which lists custody rights, visitation (or time-sharing) schedules, child support and more. We work to help create an effective parenting time plan with minimal conflict. In addition to providing comprehensive representation for child custody issues, we handle related matters such as paternity, custody modifications, child support modifications and more. Contact Our Attorneys And Schedule Your Free Consultation Please contact us at 305-445-4855... --- - Published: 2017-09-29 - Modified: 2026-01-07 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/miami-lawyer-practice-areas/familylaw/prenuptial-agreement/ You are here» The Benefits of Prenuptial Agreements Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements are effective tools to protect assets in the event of a divorce. A prenup can address issues involving property division, including division of assets and debts. If you have considered a prenuptial agreement, the next step is to talk with the lawyers at The Law Offices of Patrick L. Cordero, PA Attorneys at Law. Our firm has a robust family law practice and represents clients throughout South Florida in divorce, family law and related issues. We represent men and women going through divorce and in related issues concerning property division, alimony, custody and more. Premarital Agreements In Florida A premarital/prenuptial agreement can be crafted to meet your individual needs. A prenuptial agreement can be particularly beneficial for those who are entering into a second marriage and want to protect separate property. It can also be beneficial for people who have children from previous marriages and those who have significant inheritances or assets. When we work with clients, we take a hands-on approach to discussing the benefits of prenuptial agreements, things to consider when drafting an agreement and issues that cannot be covered in a prenuptial agreement (such as child support amounts). Our goal is to create an agreement that effectively protects your interests. Contact Our Attorneys And Schedule Your First Meeting There is no charge for the first consultation. To schedule a meeting, please contact us at 305-445-4855. You can also schedule your first meeting online. We are... --- - Published: 2017-09-29 - Modified: 2025-12-19 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/miami-lawyer-practice-areas/familylaw/modifications/ You are here» Making Changes After a Settlement Has Been Reached Divorce decrees, custody agreements and other family law-related agreements are meant to be final, but sometimes such agreements must be changed. A drastic change in circumstances such as a job loss, relocation or other instances may require an agreement to be legally modified. The attorneys at The Law Offices of Patrick L. Cordero, PA Attorneys at Law, have significant experience advocating for men and women throughout South Florida in family law issues. Our lawyers work proactively to resolve issues and make the legal process as seamless as possible. Divorce Modifications The courts will use specific criteria to evaluate whether a modification is warranted. When you work with our lawyers, we will explain what the judge will look at and what the likely outcome will be. We will take the initiative in gathering information so we can most efficiently resolve your legal issue. We handle all types of divorce modifications, including: Custody changes Relocation Support changes Alimony and child support Changes to prenuptial/premarital agreements Contact The Lawyers At Our Firm Please contact our lawyers to schedule your first meeting. We do not charge for initial consultations. Call 305-445-4855 or contact us online. Located in Miami, we accept cases throughout South Florida. --- - Published: 2017-09-29 - Modified: 2025-12-19 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/miami-lawyer-practice-areas/familylaw/child-custody/parental-relocation/ You are here» What You Need to Know About Child Custody & Relocating A parent may need to relocate to another part of the state or out of state for many reasons. If a parent wants to take his or her child, a custody modification is needed to accommodate the relocation. At The Law Offices of Patrick L. Cordero, PA Attorneys at Law, we help individuals with parental relocation, child custody and more. We help explain the relocation process, what types of relocations are most likely to be approved and what factors the courts will consider in relocation requests. Our attorneys are proactive in finding solutions for our clients. We promote open communication and encourage our clients to ask questions throughout the legal process. Over the years, we have maintained a proven track record in divorce and family law. Moving Children And Relocating Parental relocation is a significant change that requires the court's approval. Custody modifications are typically approved only under very specific circumstances that involve significant changes. Parents cannot move with a child simply because they want to. The move will be approved only if it is in the child's best interests. Our lawyers work with parents on issues involving custody modifications, changes in visitation rights and move-aways. If you are considering a move and want to take your child with you, you need to talk with an attorney. We will help explain the law and advise you on a strategy that is likely to work best for your... --- - Published: 2017-09-29 - Modified: 2025-12-19 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/miami-lawyer-practice-areas/bankruptcy/chapter-7/ You are here» Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Attorneys Among the most popular options for clients seeking bankruptcy protection to eliminate debt, Chapter 7 sells off the debtor’s assets and distributes those funds to creditors in exchange for discharging the debt. In practice, The Law Offices of Patrick L. Cordero, PA Attorneys at Law, can help make sure that key assets such as your home or your retirement savings are insulated from the sell-off, allowing you to preserve a future even as you build a new financial beginning. Our attorneys work closely with you to evaluate your situation, your assets and your goals to find bankruptcy protection options that meet your needs. For many clients, Chapter 7 bankruptcy is a natural fit, eliminating or reducing debt, collections and lawsuits while giving you options to protect your home, future and family. Experienced And Personalized Legal Support Our bankruptcy lawyers take a hands-on approach to client service. From your free initial consultation through filing Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you work closely with our office and attorneys. While we understand that it can be a stressful process and difficult decision to seek bankruptcy protection, we have also seen the benefits to clients throughout South Florida who have chosen to exercise their legal rights. Because of our experience, we understand what you are going through when deciding to visit our office. We take a personal approach to each and every client. Patrick Cordero or one of his staff meets personally with every client, talks to them one... --- - Published: 2017-09-29 - Modified: 2025-12-19 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/miami-lawyer-practice-areas/bankruptcy/chapter-13/ You are here» Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Attorneys Is your debt spiraling out of control? Are you trying to make payments, but falling behind? Are you trying to save your business or properties? Are you facing late charges and increased interest rates that are making it hard to keep up? Are you being hassled or harassed by collection agents? Do you need some time and a new plan to get caught up? Do you need help stopping foreclosure action? Do you need to modify your car payments? Are you trying to eliminate your second mortgage? If these are the kinds of issues you face, then restructuring under Chapter 13 bankruptcy protection may be a good option for you. At The Law Offices of Patrick L. Cordero, PA Attorneys at Law, we work with struggling clients in Miami and throughout South Florida who need reliable advice and assistance digging out from under debt. Providing You With The Personal Attention You Deserve Our firm is dedicated to giving you the personal attention that you need for your case. Each client who comes to our office will be given the attention and assistance they need to fix their financial problems. We make every attempt to make sure that when a client leaves our office, they feel satisfied that we are there to help them come out financially stable at the end of the process. We sit down with you, evaluate your situation and help you chart a new path to a better financial future.... --- - Published: 2017-09-29 - Modified: 2026-01-30 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/miami-lawyer-practice-areas/bankruptcy/debt-collections/ You are here» We Can Stop Collectors From Calling You What can you do to stop collections calls at work? What can you do to stop collectors from calling friends, family and neighbors? How many times in a single day are collectors allowed to call? Can collections agents call late in the evening or early in the morning? Should I speak to collections agents about my account? Is there any way to stop the harassment? Debt collections agents count on two things: 1) that you don’t know Florida collections law, and 2) you won’t talk to someone who does. They use those assumptions to their advantage by intimidating, harassing and threatening people who have protections under the law. At the Miami Law Offices of Patrick L. Cordero, PA Attorneys at Law, we work closely with South Florida clients to provide sound and reliable legal advice that will inform you of your rights and potentially end collections calls immediately. We can help you take control of your rights and end harassment. Understanding Debt Collections And Your Rights Our attorneys sit down with you to evaluate your situation and review your options. If you dread that every ring of the phone is another debt collection call, you should understand your rights. Under bankruptcy law, collections work differently and we can stop the phone calls today. Putting the protections and reorganization strategies of Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy to work for you, we can help you end debt collection calls while protecting... --- - Published: 2017-09-29 - Modified: 2025-12-19 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/miami-lawyer-practice-areas/bankruptcy/house-and-cars/ You are here» How to Save Your Car & House When Filing Bankruptcy Dispelling The Bankruptcy Myths It is still possible to file for bankruptcy. Most of our potential clients can still qualify for bankruptcy. You do not necessarily have to give up your car when you file for bankruptcy. You may be able to preserve key assets and properties while discharging debt. Filing for bankruptcy may actually make it more likely to receive new credit. Patrick Cordero, or one of his staff attorneys, will personally explain to you what you need to do to obtain new credit after bankruptcy. You may not lose any property at all after filing for bankruptcy. Many clients we meet at The Law Offices of Patrick L. Cordero, PA Attorneys at Law, are resigned to losing everything — savings, property, homes and cars — when they come to us for bankruptcy protection. Most of our clients are pleasantly surprised to discover that they may lose very little or nothing at all, and that we can take action to help keep their houses and cars. Bankruptcy law offers provisions that allow people struggling under serious debt to restructure or discharge that debt without forcing families to go homeless or lose the tools they need to rebuild. We work closely with you, evaluate your situation and focus our efforts on meeting your goals. The worst thing you can do is nothing. Understand your rights, and contact us today at 305-445-4855 or online. Save Your Home And... --- - Published: 2017-09-29 - Modified: 2025-12-19 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/miami-lawyer-practice-areas/foreclosure/short-sales/ You are here» Dedicated Short Sale Attorneys in Miami In the current Florida housing market, many people hear the term short sale or even look at these properties when trying to purchase a home, but they do not understand what a short sale is. A short sale occurs when someone owes more on his or her home than it is worth, which also known as being underwater on your mortgage, and are no longer able to maintain the mortgage payments. The bank may then agree to accept an amount short of the balance due on the mortgage, thus allowing the owner to sell the home to a new owner who can afford to make payments. In certain situations, short sales are a viable solution that can help avoid foreclosure. Although the amount of the loan does not change, the bank is now willing to accept less than the balance owed in return for allowing the home to be sold. It takes an experienced attorney to analyze whether a short sale is in the best interest for a homeowner and to steer through the complex procedures successfully in order for a bank to accept a short sale petition. At The Law Offices of Patrick L. Cordero, PA Attorneys at Law, we can help you explore your options if you can no longer afford the payments on your mortgage. We can help you fight foreclosure or stop a foreclosure by pursuing a short sale, based on what will put you on a... --- - Published: 2017-09-28 - Modified: 2026-01-08 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/privacy-policy/ This privacy policy applies to information collected online from users of this website. In this policy, you can learn what kind of information we collect, when and how we might use that information, how we protect the information, and the choices you have with respect to your personal information. What personal information is collected through this website and how is it used? We collect information about our users in three ways: directly from the user, from our Web server logs, and through cookies. We use the information primarily to provide you with a personalized Internet experience that delivers the information, resources, and services that are most relevant and helpful to you. We don't share any of the information you provide with others, unless we say so in this Privacy Policy, or when we believe in good faith that the law requires it. User-supplied information: If you fill out the “contact” form on this website, we will ask you to provide some personal information (such as e-mail address, name, phone number and state). We only require that you provide an e-mail address on the contact form. Further, if chat is available through this site, you may be asked to provide information if you participate in an online chat. Please do not submit any confidential, proprietary or sensitive personally identifiable information (e. g. Social Security Number; date of birth; drivers license number; or credit card, bank account or other financial information) (collectively, "Sensitive Information"). If you submit any Sensitive Information, you do... --- - Published: 2017-09-28 - Modified: 2026-01-30 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/miami-lawyer-practice-areas/familylaw/ Family Law Attorneys with Decades of Experience The Law Offices of Patrick L. Cordero, PA Attorneys at Law, handles any type of family law matter in the state of Florida. Our practice includes equitable distribution matters, alimony, timesharing, relocation, child support cases, drafting and negotiation of prenuptial/postnuptial agreements, modification actions and more. We offer a no-obligation consultation. You can meet with our attorneys and they will determine if we can effectively represent you in your family law case. Call 305-445-4855 today to schedule a meeting. We are attuned to the needs of our clients and committed to professional and ethical superiority in attaining excellent results. Whether it is a simple uncontested divorce or a complex disputed paternity matter, our law firm can help you achieve maximum results. We handle: Divorce: We assist with all aspects of divorce, from mediation to high net worth divorce. Property division, alimony and more Child custody Parental relocation: If one parent needs to relocate, it could affect custody. We help parents with the legal process of relocating. Child support: In Florida, guidelines are used to determine child support payments. We review the guidelines and identify if there should be any deviation. Prenuptial agreements: Sometimes individuals choose to have prenuptial agreements drafted to protect assets or inheritance when entering into a marriage. If you are considering this, our attorneys will advise on drafting an agreement. Modifications: If a change needs to be made after your divorce settlement is finalized, we can help. This may include custody... --- - Published: 2017-07-28 - Modified: 2026-04-22 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/about/our-team/attorneys/ You are here» THE LAW OFFICES OF PATRICK CORDERO MEET OUR ATTORNEYS ______________________ We have a prolific team of bankruptcy expert, divorce mediators, family law experts, real estate attorneys and other specialists who can help you with your legal matters. Miriam Marenco is a Lead Associate at the Law Offices of Patrick L. Cordero, P. A. She is the head bankruptcy attorney over-seeing bankruptcy cases filed by our Firm. Ms. Marenco focuses primarily in the representation of debtors in chapter 13 bankruptcy cases... Miriam V. Marenco Esq. BANKRUPTCY DEPARTMENT HEAD SENIOR LEAD ASSOCIATE BANKRUPTCY LITIGATION 13 DIVISION MANAGER Marianela Luporini, Esq. was born in Rosario, Argentina and came to Miami, Florida when she was 10 years old. Graduated with Honors from Miami-Dade College with a degree in Criminal Justice in 2014... Marianela Luporini, Esq. DEPARTMENT HEADLEAD ASSOCIATEREAL ESTATE LITIGATIONCHAPTER 7 BANKRUPTCYCHAPTER 11 & CORPORATE DEBT NEGOTIATIONSJannette Pineiro is a local and beloved immigration attorney located here in Miami. Prior to coming to the United States, she was an attorney in Cuba and received her JD degree from the University of Havana in 1993... . Jannette Pineiro, Esq. DEPARTMENT HEAD IMMIGRATION LAW A man of many talents, Stephen started working with us as a middle school student working his summer vacations in the mail department and helping his father Patrick with his box of files on court days... Stephen P. Cordero, Esq. BANKRUPTCY LOGISTICS ATTORNEY MODIFICATION COORDINATOR WORKFLOW OPTIMIZER Sean Cordero has been part of the Cordero bankruptcy family practice from... --- - Published: 2017-07-28 - Modified: 2026-02-23 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/patrickcordero/ You are here» LINKEDIN TWITTER FACEBOOK BIOGRAPHY Being the top consumer bankruptcy petition filer of Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 in the State of Florida and in Miami, Florida for the last 36 years took a lot of effort, commitment, and most of all compassion, for his vision of simply helping people. Being rated by the highly prestigious Martindale Hubbell and having an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, the highest standard obtained for client commitment, are just some of his accomplishments and recognitions Mr. Cordero has obtained over the years. Moreover, in November 2015, Mr. Patrick L. Cordero was honored to be “The National Bankruptcy Lawyer of the Year, 2015”, by the Minority Chamber of Commerce in Washington, D. C. ! Born in Bronx, New York, of Hispanic parents, Patrick Cordero, who resides in Miami, Florida, is married and father of six children, from ages 28 to 38. A respected, devoted family man, actively involved in the community and religious organizations. Throughout his career, he has been recognized and admired in the Hispanic community for his compassion in contributing his efforts to making Miami a better place. One example of this is for the past 18 years he has personally sponsored and led an annual Turkey giveaway event held in Little Havana, Florida. During Thanksgiving week, Mr. Cordero, his family, and his law staff hold this event where over 1,500 full thanksgiving meals distributed to the poor and needy families. It is an event that is televised locally,... --- - Published: 2017-07-27 - Modified: 2025-12-26 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/contact/ You are here» LAW OFFICES OF PATRICK CORDERO WE ARE BASED IN MIAMI, FLORIDA ______________________7333 Coral Way (24th Street)  MIAMI, FLORIDA 33155 UNITED STATES OF AMERICAPHONE NUMBER: 305-445-4855 FAX NUMBER: 305-445-9483 DEBT HELP HOTLINE: 305-300-4465MON - FRI: 9:00AM - 6:00PM SATURDAY: 9:00AM - 12:00PM (Varies) SUNDAY: CLOSED Thanksgiving, Black Friday, Saturday November 28, 2020: Closed FREE AND QUICK CONTACT! !   If you have any questions, concerns or just want to ask a lawyer anything regarding our services, your lawsuit case or just a general inquiry, simply fill out the form below and PATRICK CORDERO himself will personally respond to you with no commitment or fee. It is super easy! ______________________ Personal Information Select StateAlabamaAlaskaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareFloridaGeorgiaHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew Mexico Contact Preferences How would you like to be contacted? Check all that apply. EmailPhone How Can We Help You? The use of the Internet or this form for communication with the firm or any individual member of the firm does not establish an attorney-client relationship. Confidential or time-sensitive information should not be sent through this form. I have read the disclaimer. Required. Privacy Policy --- - Published: 2017-07-25 - Modified: 2025-12-19 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/ You are here» STAY INFORMED AND UPDATED OUR LATEST NEWS ______________________ Our blog section can help you understand your cases better. Whether it is a pro bono divorce case or a bankruptcy, real estate or debt settlement case, our lawyers will always be by your side. And our blogs would help you stay legally aware! --- - Published: 2017-07-17 - Modified: 2026-01-08 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/about/ You are here» ABOUT OUR FIRM At the Law Offices of Patrick L. Cordero, PA Attorneys at Law, we simply work in the best interest of people like you. Over the years, the office has expanded to become one of the largest law firms in South Florida representing debtors in Chapter 7 and Chapter 13. With a staff of more than 50 members, we are dedicated to representing people who need simple and direct answers. We understand that you did not ask to be in this situation and that it could have been created by an illness, an accident, family issues or other situations. We can also assist you with other areas of law such as loan modifications, foreclosure and family law matters. It is difficult to consider speaking with an attorney — whether you are facing financial issues, are considering divorce or need help with a loan modification. Needing legal assistance doesn’t make you a bad person. We work with people every day who face unavoidable situations. We are here to help, advocate and provide strong legal support. Contact Us Today For A Free Consultation We offer a free consultation for all legal matters. Come to our office and discuss the issues you face. Our lawyers promote open communication and encourage you to come with questions. Call 305-445-4855 or contact us online. We are a debt relief agency. We help people file for bankruptcy relief under the Bankruptcy Code. 33+YEARS OF EXPERIENCE Over his 30 years serving thousands of... --- --- ## Posts - Published: 2025-09-04 - Modified: 2026-01-19 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/senators-consider-raising-chapter-13-debt-limits-what-it-means-for-consumers-and-small-business-owners/ As Congress reconvenes after the August recess, one major change on the horizon could bring significant relief to consumers and small business owners struggling with overwhelming debt. The U. S. Senate is expected to weigh an amendment that raises the debt limits for Chapter 13 bankruptcy—an adjustment that would open the door for more people to seek meaningful financial reorganization. What Is Changing? Currently, Chapter 13 bankruptcy eligibility is capped at $1. 58 million for secured debt (like mortgages) and $526,000 for unsecured debt (like credit cards or student loans). The new proposal, introduced by Senator Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Senator Dick Durbin (D-Ill. ), would replace these separate limits with a single $2. 75 million ceiling. This change would be retroactive to cases filed after the temporary pandemic-era caps expired in June 2022. That means individuals or families who filed during that gap may now fall back under eligibility. Why This Matters Chapter 13 bankruptcy is often the best path for individuals who want to reorganize debts while keeping their homes, cars, or other important assets. But under the current limits, many people—especially those living in high-cost areas like California, New York, or even Miami—are excluded because their mortgage debt alone exceeds the cap. By raising the debt ceiling, more families burdened by rising housing costs, medical bills, or student loans will be able to access Chapter 13’s protections. Instead of being forced into liquidation under Chapter 7, or an expensive and complex Chapter 11 case, they can create... --- - Published: 2023-09-23 - Modified: 2026-01-27 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/from-a-blindsiding-debt-to-a-fresh-start-how-attorney-patrick-cordero-stepped-in/ For many, the mere thought of unresolved debt looming over one's head is a nightmare. It becomes even more daunting when the weight of this debt threatens daily sustenance. Such was the case for Veronique Nesmith, a South Floridian woman still grappling with the aftermath of a car accident that occurred 20 years ago. What was shocking is that Veronique believed her insurance had covered the auto loan's remainder after the accident. However, two decades later, a garnishment on her wages served as a rude awakening. The incident brings to light not only the challenges faced by many South Floridians living paycheck to paycheck but also the complicated nature of debt collection in the United States. When Veronique's paycheck started showing a deduction of almost $400, she discovered that a judgment from 2006 had been passed against her, leading to her current employer garnishing her wages. This news was especially harrowing because she had paperwork that once confirmed her GAP insurance covered the vehicle's remaining balance. Regrettably, she had disposed of these papers years ago, and the financing company she initially dealt with was now out of business. Additionally, with two changes in ownership, the current owners were unable to trace back to her records. However, Veronique's story takes a turn for the better when introduced to Patrick Cordero, a bankruptcy attorney in Miami. Attorney Cordero emphasized that many individuals are oblivious to lawsuits against them until several years have passed, often culminating in asset seizures or garnishment of wages.... --- - Published: 2023-07-14 - Modified: 2026-02-02 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/when-do-you-need-a-bankruptcy-attorney-in-florida/ If you're facing bankruptcy, you're probably considering whether hiring a Bankruptcy Attorney to defend you is worth the expense. Of course, the answer is yes, but it depends on the kind of Bankruptcy Miami you declare and the value of the assets you're attempting to save. Keep on reading to know more about Bankruptcy Attorney Miami, FL! Why Would You Need the Services of A Bankruptcy Lawyer? Your financial situation, including the kinds and quantities of debt you owe, may be assessed by a Bankruptcy Attorney, who can advise on whether it makes sense to file for bankruptcy protection. If Bankruptcy Miami is the best choice for you, your lawyer can help you determine whether to file under Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 of the federal bankruptcy code. Most debts may be discharged in Chapter 7, often known as liquidation bankruptcy, but all but a few assets must be forfeited. A Chapter 13 bankruptcy allows you to preserve some of your assets, such as a house or a vehicle while establishing a repayment plan with your creditors. Your lawyer will walk you through each stage of the bankruptcy process after you've decided which route to take. Here's how: ● Make a list of your debtors and an appointment to appear in court. ● You will be advised when and where to complete your bankruptcy credit counseling session and debt management course. ● Including the appropriate filing fees in your pleadings and other court filings. ● Even if you can do... --- - Published: 2023-07-07 - Modified: 2026-01-28 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/all-you-need-to-know-about-before-hiring-bankruptcy-lawyer-in-miami/ Choosing the best Bankruptcy Lawyer in Miami, FL is a choice that the stress of filing for bankruptcy should not influence. Instead, navigate the complexities of bankruptcy to get out from under your financial obligations, whether they be foreclosure concerns, mortgage/loan repayments, or credit card bills. Using this information can help you identify the best route to financial independence. In addition, you may use the following data to locate Miami bankruptcy lawyers specializing in Chapter 7, Chapter 13, Chapter 20, or Chapter 11 cases. Three things to consider before selecting a Bankruptcy Lawyer in Miami, FL. Proven Experience Don't be fooled by the lawyer's years of practice. You may instead check out review sites to know their ratings and reviews. See how many of their cases ended up in bankruptcy. Find out how well the company helped the prior customers. In addition, a younger attorney may have won honors for their work, whereas an older attorney may not be up to speed on the most recent changes to bankruptcy law. You may also check on some reliable websites to find out whether they have any outstanding disciplinary problems. Specialist Bankruptcy lawyers and debts are not all the same. The bankruptcy ads promising "one-of-ten" legal services are a scam. No, they're not bankruptcy experts at all. Choose a bankruptcy attorney from multiple Lawyers In Miami might be a headache, but the one who is most suited to your needs: ● Bankruptcy Lawyer in Miami for Chapter 7: In circumstances of bankruptcy... --- - Published: 2023-06-16 - Modified: 2026-02-08 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/types-of-bankruptcies-choose-the-right-one/ Bankruptcy sounds ominous in everyone’s life. You might have heard about nightmare tales of business giants that have gone bankrupt. When you cannot pay off several debts, you are bound to declare bankruptcy. But a highly skilled bankruptcy attorney in Miami can save you from these challenges. How Do You Know the Potential That You Can Go Bankrupt- Find the answer to these questions • Do you make minimum credit card payments? • Do you receive calls from bill collectors every day? • Have you already chosen debt consolidation services? • Are you not sure of the owed amount? Bankruptcy is when you owe an amount that is more than your ability to afford. Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Filing: Several debtors have chosen the Chapter 7 bankruptcy filing process. Most have filed for bankruptcy because of unemployment, marital problems, and high medical costs. Chapter 7, also known as straight bankruptcy, liquidates your assets for debt payment. The cash obtained from selling your investments is allocated to creditors. Your credit report will show your bankruptcy record for ten years. However, Chapter 7 bankruptcies may not be the right choice for every person. Debtors need to be ready to sell their assets to repay their creditors. Thus, to make the safest decision, you can hire a bankruptcy attorney in Miami, FL. A Bankruptcy Filing under Chapter 13: Chapter 13 has mentioned that you have a chance of securing your property. You can also refer to it as a reorganization bankruptcy. Chapter13 lets you... --- - Published: 2023-06-02 - Modified: 2026-02-08 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/how-does-a-bankruptcy-attorney-help-you/ The term bankruptcy naturally creates a negative image. Consumers and businesses file bankruptcy to free themselves from burdensome debt. However, a bankruptcy filing ensures creditors’ protection and relief from debt obligations. But, you do not clearly understand how to fill out the bankruptcy form. That is why you can hire a bankruptcy lawyer in Miami. This lawyer will give you legal advice and help you with paperwork. Your bankruptcy case can become complicated due to several reasons- • The facts related to your case• Your choice between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy• The decision on selling any property by the bankruptcy trustee• Bankruptcy litigation Ensure that the lawyer has helped several other clients come out of similar situations. Prepare your paperwork for a bankruptcy filing- Bankruptcy filing involves a lengthy process, as you need to fill out some forms. The best bankruptcy attorneys use innovative software to prepare your bankruptcy paperwork. You need to provide your financial details to your lawyer. For instance, it is essential to reveal your • Earnings• Asset• Expense• Debt information A certified lawyer will use these details to prepare the forms and deal with the paperwork accurately. Some additional forms need to be filled out; thus, you can rely on a lawyer to do it efficiently. You can avoid the chance of missing the deadline and facing other adverse consequences. As the attorney knows the filing procedures and local rules, there will be no delay. Other Responsibilities of the Bankruptcy Attorney- • Guide you... --- - Published: 2023-05-09 - Modified: 2026-02-10 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/all-you-need-to-know-about-bankruptcy-lawyer-miami-florida/ Each experienced Bankruptcy Lawyer in Miami is committed to providing personal assistance to their clients. Although the thought of declaring bankruptcy might be intimidating, this should not influence your choice of a competent Bankruptcy Lawyer in Miami. Whether you're facing foreclosure, loan or mortgage obligations, or credit card bills, learn about the ins and outs of bankruptcy. It will help you choose the most effective route to financial independence. No matter where you live in the United States, filing for bankruptcy is the same. However, you may get a new start by filing for bankruptcy, which is governed by federal law rather than Florida state law, and it does so by renegotiating your debts. However, the state's laws have an important role. They decide what property you may retain in bankruptcy. Once you've mastered the fundamentals, we'll go through more specifics. Here we go with things to keep in mind while looking for a Bankruptcy Lawyer in Miami, FL. Proven Experience Don't be fooled by a lawyer's resume touting a long career in the field. Instead, look up ratings and reviews. First, inquire about how many of their cases had been declared bankrupt. Then, please find out how effective they were in assisting their former customers by contacting them. In addition, a younger attorney may have won honors for their work, whereas an older attorney may not be up to speed on the most recent changes to bankruptcy law. Specialist Debts and Bankruptcy Lawyers Miami aren't the same for everyone.... --- - Published: 2023-05-03 - Modified: 2026-02-16 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/how-much-does-a-bankruptcy-cost-in-miami/ Bankruptcy Attorney Miami explains law costs for Chapter 7 consumer bankruptcies are lower than those for other types of legal labor. In 2011, a bankruptcy court in Orlando, Florida, issued a Memorandum Opinion on the market for Chapter 7 bankruptcy Miami attorney fees in central Florida. People in the United States most often file for bankruptcy under Chapters 7 and 13 of the Bankruptcy Code. The fees for Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 filings are $299. 00 and $274. 00. Occasionally, the U. S. Bankruptcy Court waives or defers the Chapter 7 filing fee for low-income borrowers. It may also be paid in installments over time, generally with a $50. 00 minimum initial payment. A good Bankruptcy Attorney Miami should be consulted immediately. Let's dive more into this! Understanding The Cost of Bankruptcy In Miami Bankruptcy Attorney Miami explains law costs for Chapter 7 consumer bankruptcies are lower than those for other types of legal labor. In 2011, a bankruptcy court in Orlando, Florida, issued a Memorandum Opinion on the market for Chapter 7 bankruptcy Miami attorney fees in central Florida. Chapter 7 bankruptcy filings in central Florida typically cost between $1,500 to $2,500 in legal charges or fees and other expenses, according to the bankruptcy court's and Bankruptcy Attorney Miami FL's estimate. According to the court, attorneys who charge fees in this category often meet with their clients. However, paralegals are still needed to complete the appropriate pleadings, keep in touch with clients, and keep track of the specifics of a bankruptcy case. Generally speaking, Chapter 13 bankruptcy cases are more complex, resulting in more extraordinary legal expenses than Chapter 7 bankruptcy cases. According to Orlando court rules, a conventional Chapter 13 case must be filed and completed with legal costs totaling at least $4,500... --- - Published: 2023-04-18 - Modified: 2026-02-10 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/what-you-need-to-know-when-filing-for-divorce-in-miami/ If you are filing for divorce, find the best divorce lawyer Miami FL has to offer who can guide and help you. In Miami and the rest of Florida, you must prove your spouse’s misconduct if you want to file for divorce. Some of the reasons for divorce were as follows: Adultery Getting convicted of a felony crime Cruelty Abandonment Being a habitual drunkard Insanity However, trying to prove alleged misconduct by a spouse was considered an invasion of privacy, resulting in a few changes. Petitioners no longer have to invade privacy and can file for divorce by claiming that their marriage has irretrievably broken or their spouse suffers from permanent mental incapacity. The petitioner has no compulsion to prove that their marital relationship has broken down. However, if the spouse wants to reconcile, the court may direct the couple to meet with a marriage counselor so that they can save their marriage. This can lead to a stay in the proceedings for around three months. After this period, if the petitioner still wants a divorce, the court will take their request into cognizance and move the case forward. Considering that it can be a long and stressful process, hiring an experienced and qualified divorce attorney in Miami, Florida, is a good idea to handle your case. On the other hand, if you are trying to file for a divorce based on your spouse’s mental incapacity, it is prudent to remember that the condition should have been ruled by the court at least three years before you file for divorce. No-Fault Divorce Is Not The Same As Uncontested Divorce Many people believe... --- - Published: 2022-04-11 - Modified: 2026-02-18 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/top-reasons-to-hire-a-foreclosure-defense-attorney/ If you are trying to avoid foreclosure, you may want to defend yourself without having an attorney by your side. While it is possible to do that, you will find the going tough. That is because foreclosures are never straightforward. Hence, having an attorney will work to your benefit. Here are the top three reasons to hire a foreclosure defense attorney Miami: 1. These Experts Know The Law There are many different state laws in Florida and a host of federal laws that govern foreclosure in the state. Experienced foreclosure lawyers know the relevant laws that apply to foreclosures. Your attorney will not only work to avoid the foreclosure but will hold the lender accountable for unfair lending practices. As foreclosure laws keep changing, it is essential to work with an attorney who is aware of these changes and will be able to help you. 2. Foreclosure Defense Is Complex As stated earlier, foreclosure defense is not as simple as you think. You need the proper legal knowledge to prove your side of the case in court. Working with an experienced real estate attorney in Miami FL will allow you to verify your claim in court. The lawyer may come up with reasons like the lender did not follow the proper procedures when filing for foreclosure or the lender made a significant mistake in the account. Trying to prove these reasons requires in-depth knowledge of foreclosure law at the state and federal levels. 3. Court Procedures Are Complicated If your... --- - Published: 2022-01-31 - Modified: 2026-03-08 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/what-are-the-benefits-of-hiring-a-bankruptcy-attorney/ Going bankrupt can be stressful, and most business owners aren’t sure what to do in such scenarios. If you have had a rough year and can’t pay your debts, you don’t just get declared bankrupt. You would need to draw up an application for your bankruptcy wherein you would be required to know the exact rules, practices, and regulations. Most small business owners aren’t aware of these rules and so prefer to hire attorneys that can help them understand the process, take a load off their shoulders, and put things into perspective for them, especially if they are going bankrupt. Here are some advantages of hiring a bankruptcy attorney. Increased Rate Of Success If you aren’t well-versed in filing for bankruptcy, going at it alone can be challenging. This is a long and complicated process, and each case is unique, so don’t expect a seamless process. A bankruptcy lawyer Miami Florida is trained and skilled, and they keep up to date with the latest rules and regulations; they also have a lot of knowledge, having handled this process before, and can advise you on what to do as well as handle any paperwork and documentation you require. This helps make the entire process easier and allows you a better chance at success. Trusted And Reliable Representation A bankruptcy attorney Miami FL offers you professional representation when you go to court and prepares you for any questions asked, legal aid, and helps you deal with paperwork. Since these professionals have been... --- - Published: 2022-01-27 - Modified: 2026-03-08 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/critical-questions-to-ask-your-bankruptcy-lawyer-before-filing/ If you’re drowning in debt, unsure of what to do, or even overwhelmed by tons of financial issues, then it’s probably time you declare bankruptcy. Most business owners during this time are at risk of making wrong decisions and even signing documents and paperwork that do not serve their best interests; in such cases hiring a bankruptcy lawyer is the need of the hour. These professionals have the training and experience to carefully consider your situation, protect your well-being, and decide what course of action is best for your financial situation – they have the knowledge and skill to help you navigate the process quickly and with ease. But how do you know which attorney to choose and if they are best suited to your needs? Here are some ways to find out. How Much Experience Do You Have In Bankruptcy Law? It’s essential to hire a bankruptcy attorney in Miami, Florida, specializing mainly in this line. This will allow you to be confident that they are well-versed in what they do since it’s the only thing they focus on. Ask your attorney for how long they have been working in this line, the amount of experience and skill, and how they will handle your case. The number of cases they handle each month will also give you an idea of how well they are doing, as you want someone reliable to manage this process. How Involved In Your Case Will They Be? In some areas, bankruptcy mills exist, and... --- - Published: 2021-12-21 - Modified: 2026-03-08 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/how-can-a-good-divorce-lawyer-truly-help-you/ The process of getting a divorce can be very unpleasant with a lot of emotional, mental, and financial exhaustion, and the legal work adds to your woes. Sometimes, people may make random and ill-planned decisions during this vulnerable period. Hence, you must get a solid and qualified divorce lawyer to help make the process a lot easier. Here are some ways a good divorce lawyer can help you through this challenging multistep process. Explaining The Ground For Divorce Getting to know the grounds for divorce is very important since every state has accepted specific grounds for divorce like adultery, cruel treatment, abuse, or confinement. This gives the right to petition the court to one of the spouses to terminate a marital relationship. Some states require the spouses to live separately for a certain period before they can dissolve the marital relationship. Since all of this can be pretty complicated, a divorce lawyer can help you understand any benefits such as spousal support or how much support will be awarded to ask the court to dissolve the marriage based on the above fault grounds. They will also suggest if annulling the marriage will be a better option or getting a divorce. Providing Objective Advice A good divorce lawyer Miami FL, will discuss with you the factors that can affect your future, like support and custody issues so that you can be a bit distracted from the whole distressing experience. They can also serve as the intermediary for you and your spouse... --- - Published: 2021-12-16 - Modified: 2026-03-08 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/the-role-of-a-real-estate-attorney-what-you-need-to-know/ Since investing in real estate is one of the most significant investments that you will ever make in your life, it is necessary that you hire a real estate lawyer to help negotiate the transactions and for the completion of the entire process legally. They specialize in all matters related to property, ranging from transactions to handling disputes between parties. Several states compulsorily require a real estate attorney to be present at the closing, while others do not require this. The attorney will represent your interests at closing and review all paperwork in advance, and advise on the issues and omissions with the proper documentation. What Do Real Estate Attorneys Cover? The real estate law encloses the purchase and sale of real property, including the land and any other structures. The law covers legal issues related to the things related to the property or structures, like appliances and fixtures. The lawyers ensure that proper procedures are followed during the purchase or sale of the property concerned and are also involved with how a property is zoned for usage. The law also covers deeds, property taxes, estate planning, zoning, and titles. These laws may vary according to the state and the local government. Hence, real estate lawyers are necessary when buying property since they are licensed to practice in the state where the transaction occurs. Thus, the lawyer must be alongside any state or local developments impacting the transaction. What Are The Responsibilities Of The Attorney? The attorney is facilitated to... --- - Published: 2021-10-25 - Modified: 2026-03-02 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/things-to-keep-in-mind-when-picking-a-divorce-lawyer/ Most couples preparing for divorce often have a tough time, right from preserving their relationship with their children to worrying about the property, financial losses, and more. Besides this, they also have to look for the right divorce lawyer to help them make their process seamless and smooth. With so many lawyers on the market, how do you know which one is the right fit for you? You need to pick a lawyer that not only has your needs at the forefront but that has the right amount of skill and knowledge you need. Here are some of the qualities to look for when picking a divorce lawyer. Skilled And Experienced When it comes to finding the right divorce attorney in Miami Florida, you need to pick someone who specializes primarily in family law and has the experience and skill required. Every state has its own family and divorce laws, and your lawyer in Miami should be well-versed in the laws and regulations governing divorces in Florida. Besides this, the attorney should also have detailed knowledge and experience to check these laws and be familiar with local family courts and judges. This can help you be better equipped when you go to court and can help you settle things like alimony, property division, and more. Engaged And Available Look for a divorce lawyer in Miami, FL that is engaged in your case, will pick up your calls, be prompt with replies and give you a high level of attention. An... --- - Published: 2021-10-22 - Modified: 2026-03-02 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/reasons-why-hiring-bankruptcy-attorneys-can-be-a-good-thing/ Going bankrupt is stressful for your company, and many business owners aren’t sure what to do in such scenarios. If you are unable to pay your debts, you don’t just get declared bankrupt, but you also need to draw up an application for your bankruptcy in which you would have to know the exact rules, regulations, and practices. Most small business owners prefer to use the services of a lawyer to assist them. You need to understand that if you are going to be declaring bankruptcy, the whole process can be challenging, and having a lawyer can help make it easier and put things in perspective. Here are some reasons why you should hire a bankruptcy lawyer: Increased Odds Of Success While filing for bankruptcy is a long and complicated process, each case is unique and different, and whether you are filing on behalf of yourself or your company, don’t expect a quick and seamless process. It would be best if you kept yourself updated with the latest rules and answered many questions. A bankruptcy attorney in Miami comes with a lot of skill, experience, and knowledge. They will guide you through the entire process and handle any paperwork and documentation you need. With them helping you, the process becomes more manageable, and it allows you to have a better chance of a successful application. Reliable And Expert Representation By hiring a bankruptcy attorney in Miami, Florida, you can have professional representation when you go to court. This can help... --- - Published: 2021-09-23 - Modified: 2026-01-08 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/city-of-hialeah-2021-back-to-school-bash/ Presented by The Law Offices of Patrick Cordero The Law Offices of Patrick Cordero are proud to partner with the City of Hialeah for their 2021 Back to School Bash. Hosted at the Milander Center on August 18, the event featured Backpacks and school supplies given out to children and attendees throughout the event. Guests also enjoyed raffles and giveaways! This event is known to benefit and impact the youth in our local community, so participation was a top priority for all involved. Everyone at The Law Offices of Patrick Cordero team is grateful for the opportunity to give back to the community once again and provide for children in need as they embark on the new school year. Check out some highlights of the event! --- - Published: 2021-09-20 - Modified: 2026-02-22 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/select-a-divorce-lawyer-in-miami-fl-with-the-right-skills/ A marriage breakup is never easy, even if you decide to call it quits amicably. Emotions will run high, and your stress levels will be through the roof. That is why it is advisable not to handle your divorce even though DIY kits are available online. You will not be in the state of mind to make the right decisions. Instead, you should hire a divorce lawyer to ensure that the proceedings go on smoothly. If you think hiring a divorce attorney is not the right move, here are a few things that you should consider:- Understanding Of The Current Divorce Laws In Miami Getting a divorce can be expensive, and this can lead to more stress. So, when you have the right lawyer fighting your case, you can rest assured knowing that the lawyer will know the prevailing laws that govern your case. Every state has its divorce laws, and Florida is no different. That is why it is essential to choose your divorce lawyer with care. The lawyer will ensure that the laws work to your benefit rather than against you. Help You Make Informed Decisions Sometimes, divorce can result in bankruptcy. Your divorce lawyer should be able to help you meet the right bankruptcy lawyers in Miami so that you can protect your critical assets, like retirement savings and home. Of course, bankruptcy does not absolve you of your debts – you will still be liable to pay child support and alimony if that is the case.... --- - Published: 2021-08-27 - Modified: 2026-03-08 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/the-advantage-of-hiring-a-commercial-real-estate-attorney-in-miami-fl/ If you are planning to buy commercial real estate for business or as an investment, do not do it with the presence of a commercial real estate attorney. While it can be tempting to take advantage of the offers you find on the market, working with a commercial real estate attorney will protect not only you but also your business down the line. Here are some advantages of collaborating with a commercial real estate lawyer: Protect Your Rights And Interests When you are buying commercial property, it is essential to scrutinize the contract with a fine-toothed comb. As a layperson, you will not have the proper knowledge and skills, and you could blindly sign the contract without realizing that it may not be in your best interests. On the other hand, when you work with a real estate attorney in Miami, FL, you can rest assured. They will protect your interests by checking the contract minutely and ensuring that it does not take advantage of you. The attorney will ensure that there are no hidden issues that could pose a problem for you after closing the deal. That protects your interests and will ensure that legal wrangles, later on, do not halt your business success. Helps You Save Time Just like working with a divorce lawyer in Miami, FL, saves a person time and effort, collaborating with a commercial real estate lawyer will save you time. As a business person, you need to focus on your business, and if issues... --- - Published: 2021-08-10 - Modified: 2026-03-09 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/the-benefits-of-hiring-a-real-estate-attorney-in-miami-fl/ Whether you are planning to buy real estate for personal or commercial use, make sure you have a qualified and experienced real estate attorney on your side. Many people see real estate investment opportunities and jump to take advantage of them. But, unfortunately, they later realize that the investment may not have been as good as they believed. Having a real estate attorney in Miami, FL, working on your real estate investments comes with numerous advantages. Some of them are highlighted below: Protect Your Interests When you are purchasing real estate, it is essential to go through the contract carefully. Unfortunately, you will not have the proper knowledge and experience to scrutinize the contract and find issues carefully. As a result, you may sign the contract without realizing that it may not be as good as you believed it to be. Working with a real estate attorney ensures that you do not sign any contract blindly. Instead, the attorney will carefully peruse the contract and ensure that the deal is as lucrative as you thought it is. By doing this, the attorney will ensure that you do not face issues after signing on the dotted lines. That not only protects your interests but also ensures you will not face legal issues in the future. Saves You Time You have a million things to do, and the last thing you need is a real estate deal taking up all your time. When working with a real estate attorney, you can focus... --- - Published: 2021-07-28 - Modified: 2021-07-29 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/why-you-should-hire-a-foreclosure-attorney-in-miami-fl/ If you face foreclosure, you should know that the process can be complicated, especially if you want to fight it. Hence, it would help if you considered hiring a qualified foreclosure attorney so that they can understand your case and help you find the best possible solution to your problem. While you can fight and defend the foreclosure on your own, it will be challenging. The defense is not something you will be able to do by yourself. If you are still sitting on the fence about hiring a foreclosure attorney in Miami, FL, here are some compelling reasons to hire one. The Right Skills Foreclosure attorneys have years of experience and comprehensive knowledge of the laws of foreclosure. They will use their experience and knowledge to help you before and during the trial. This will give you the best chance for success, especially if you want to retain your home. Know The Current Law Foreclosure laws never stay static. These laws keep changing, and knowing them will help you when you are fighting the case in court. Your lawyer will stay abreast of the changes and updates in the law and utilize this knowledge and information to help you fight the foreclosure in the best possible way. Create The Best Defense On Your Behalf Foreclosure defense can be pretty complicated as the building requires you to read and understand a wide range of complex documents, including statutes and previous court rulings. However, a foreclosure attorney does this every day... --- - Published: 2021-07-15 - Modified: 2021-09-24 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/benefits-of-hiring-a-divorce-attorney-in-miami-fl/ If you are going through a divorce, you already know how stressful and challenging it can be. It can take a toll on you mentally, emotionally, and physically. Under these circumstances, it can be tough to make decisions and keep your cool. Unfortunately, if you are not using the services of a divorce attorney, you are in for a rough ride through the divorce proceedings. Here Are Some Benefits Of Hiring a Divorce Attorney: Knowledge Of The Divorce Laws Laws vary from state to state, and if you are getting a divorce in Miami, it is advisable to hire an experienced and qualified divorce attorney. The lawyer will know the law in Florida and ensure they are in a position to help you. In addition, a reasonable divorce attorney in Miami, FL, will know how the court functions in divorce proceedings and take suitable measures to ensure that your divorce goes through smoothly and without any hassles. Proper Division Of Assets A divorce attorney will negotiate with your ex-spouse’s attorney so that you get the best possible deal when dividing the assets. The attorney will ensure that negotiations take place without tempers flying and ensure that you and your ex-spouse get a fair deal. In some cases, if one of the parties is facing bankruptcy, the divorce attorney will rope in a bankruptcy attorney in Miami, FL, to protect assets and ensure creditors cannot lay claim to them. Keep You Objective A divorce can be messy and an emotional time... --- - Published: 2021-06-23 - Modified: 2021-09-24 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/why-you-should-let-a-divorce-attorney-represent-you-instead-of-representing-yourself/ If you are starting your divorce proceedings, it can be tempting to represent yourself instead of hiring a divorce attorney in Miami FL. You may feel that by representing yourself, you will save time and money. However, that may not be in your best interests. Here Are Some Compelling Reasons To Hire A Divorce Attorney in Miami, FL: You Are Unfamiliar With The Divorce Laws In Miami You will not know Florida's divorce laws, which could prove to be a hurdle when you represent yourself. The judge will lose patience and get annoyed with you, and as a result, they will not be as sympathetic as you would like them to be. Divorce attorneys, on the other hand, are domain experts and will know the laws in-depth. As a result, they will be well-prepared to meet the onslaught by your spouse's attorney and will not do or say anything to jeopardize your case. Your Attorney Will Provide Objective Advice Getting divorced, even if it is amicable, can take an emotional toll on you. You will feel sad, angry, confused, depressed, and resigned to your fate. You will be emotionally wrought, and this can skew your judgment. Your attorney will give you sound and objective advice and help you make informed decisions rather than letting your emotions govern you. Provide You With Different Options A qualified divorce attorney will constantly evaluate your situation and give you options. For instance, your divorce attorney will put you in touch with the right bankruptcy... --- - Published: 2021-06-09 - Modified: 2021-09-24 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/why-you-may-need-a-bankruptcy-lawyer-in-miami-florida-during-your-divorce/ If you are going through a divorce and have accrued significant debt, one way of reducing your stress could be filing for bankruptcy. However, the timing of the filing is essential, which is why you should have a bankruptcy lawyer to help you through. Bankruptcy and Divorce It is important to remember that it will not affect your divorce, custody, alimony, or child support if you file for bankruptcy. However, the bankruptcy will delay the way your assets are distributed until the bankruptcy case is over. A majority of people file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. If you work with a bankruptcy lawyer in Miami, Florida, it will be a quick process, and within three to four months, the case usually gets completed. In this chapter, the debt gets wiped, and there is no need to pay your creditors with the help of a repayment plan. Chapter 7 bankruptcy also enables you to keep the home you need for living and property you need for your livelihood. So, that can do away with the need to hire a foreclosure defense attorney Miami. All your assets are placed within a bankruptcy estate, and the court appoints a bankruptcy trustee. The estate will sell the assets that are not exempted and protected, and the amount that the sales generate is then distributed among your creditors. There is a reason most people do not file for Chapter 13 bankruptcy during a divorce. In this chapter, the married couple will be responsible for the repayment... --- - Published: 2021-05-19 - Modified: 2021-09-24 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/ensure-you-hire-a-skilled-lawyer-for-your-legal-issues/ You may need a lawyer for a divorce, file for bankruptcy, or even buy real estate. Make sure that the lawyer you hire is skilled and experienced enough to handle your case and ensure it provides the best outcome. When hiring a lawyer, here are a few things that you should keep in mind. Thorough understanding of the Laws The lawyer you hire should be aware of the laws that affect your case. For example, suppose you want to file for bankruptcy. In that case, the team of bankruptcy lawyers in Miami should be well-versed in finding legal ways to prevent your significant assets, like your home, from being sold off to clear creditors. When you hire a lawyer who has the expertise to handle your case, you can rest assured that they will take the proper steps to help you win your case. Outstanding Negotiation Skills This skill is often overlooked when hiring a lawyer, but it is one of the most critical skills besides legal knowledge. Lawyers constantly negotiate on behalf of their clients, be it for compensation from an insurance provider or coming to an understanding with your ex-spouse’s lawyer during a divorce proceeding. Most people realize the importance of this skill when sitting with their ex-spouse’s divorce lawyer in Miami, FL, and negotiating alimony, child support, and division of assets. The right lawyer can ensure that you are never short-changed during a legal negotiation and helps you maintain your rights as per law. Understanding of Contracts... --- - Published: 2021-05-05 - Modified: 2021-09-24 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/what-options-do-you-have-when-divorce-leads-to-bankruptcy/ Many times, a divorce can wreak havoc with your finances and result in bankruptcy. In Miami, many people file for bankruptcy within a year of their divorce, which they are unprepared for. Hence, if you have hired a divorce attorney in Miami, Florida, you must consult the lawyer about the repercussions of the divorce on your finances. On the other hand, if your divorce has already been finalized and you are discovering the effects on your finances, it is best to consult a qualified bankruptcy lawyer in Miami, Florida. Working with a qualified lawyer can help you take the proper steps so that you can get your finances and life back on track. Divorce-Related Debt Debt brought on due to a divorce can be frightening as you may end up with unmanageable debt. You may find that you are suddenly responsible for ex-spouses' credit card payments and auto loans due to Florida laws. And, the situation can worsen if your ex-spouse files for bankruptcy as their creditors will begin chasing you and ask you to repay the debt. You have to remember that even if you file for bankruptcy with the help of a bankruptcy lawyer in Miami, Florida, you would still have to be responsible for paying non-dischargeable debt, like child support and alimony. So, suppose you are facing unmanageable debt. In that case, it is essential to consult a qualified bankruptcy attorney who can help you file for bankruptcy and ensure you come out of this situation as... --- - Published: 2021-04-16 - Modified: 2021-04-19 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/the-importance-of-an-experienced-attorney-for-small-business-owners/ As a small business owner, you have limited resources. If you are looking to grow your business, then an experienced attorney can go a long way in helping you smartly use those resources to achieve your long-term business goals. So, make sure you find the right lawyer to help you in this endeavor. Not all lawyers are experts in business finance. Hence, when you look for one, make sure that they have the right experience, skills, and know-how to help you and your business make prudent financial and investment decisions. Here are some of the benefits of working with a lawyer for your small business. Use your money wisely As a small business owner, whether you are looking for bankruptcy lawyers in Miami or a financial lawyer, you may feel that you are not answerable to anyone as long as you pay your taxes, suppliers, and employees on time. That can make you a little reckless with the way you spend your money. When you have proper legal and financial advice and strategy in place, you will be more careful how you spend your money. You will know how much cash flow and expenses you have, and it will help you figure out where to cut costs so that you can achieve your goals. With the right advice, you will make intelligent business decisions that will help grow and expand your business. Plan for any emergency Emergencies come without notice, and your small business should not collapse when an emergency... --- - Published: 2021-04-12 - Modified: 2021-04-19 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/tips-to-choose-the-right-attorney-for-your-business/ As a small business owner or even a start-up, you should take regulations and laws seriously. You need to comply with them so that you are not penalized or fined. Even if your business performs poorly, the professionals you work with can come to your rescue in more ways than you can imagine. One of these professionals is an attorney. You should partner with an experienced foreclosure defense attorney in Miami who can help you if you fall behind in your business loan or mortgage. However, choosing an attorney is easier said than done. Thankfully, there are ways to find an experienced attorney who has the expertise to manage your legal woes and issues and ensure you save money and time. Location does not matter Previously, the location of the attorney used to matter. However, with the power of the internet and other cloud-based technologies, location is not such a big problem. Nonetheless, you can look for a bankruptcy attorney in Miami services that cater to the legal needs of small business owners. Just make sure that you find a legal service that understands your business and industry so that if you have to file for bankruptcy, they will know which code applies to your business the best. Have the right skill As a small business owner, you should look for an attorney who has experience dealing with legal issues that your business is facing. Also, the attorney should be well-versed with laws in Miami that govern small businesses. It... --- - Published: 2021-03-22 - Modified: 2021-09-24 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/what-skills-should-your-lawyer-posses/ Whether you are looking to buy real estate, file for bankruptcy, or divorce from your spouse, you will need a lawyer. However, you must select your lawyer with care as the outcome of your case may depend on the skills, experience, and knowledge that your lawyer has. Here are a few things to look at when you are trying to find the best lawyer for your legal needs: Knowledge of the Regulations and Laws The lawyer you hire must be well-versed in the regulations and laws governing your case. For instance, if you have to file Chapter 7 bankruptcy, bankruptcy lawyers in Miami should know how to prevent your key assets, such as home and retirement savings, from being sold off to pay your creditors. So, find out the field of expertise of the lawyer and ensure that they have sufficient knowledge of the rules and laws to help you win a case. Negotiation Skills Every lawyer requires some amount of negotiation skills. However, some lawyers require these skills more than others. For instance, if you want to buy a home or commercial property, your lawyer will read the contract provided by the seller and make sure that the terms and conditions are not lopsided and favoring the seller. A real estate attorney in Miami, FL, should be able to negotiate on your behalf not only for terms and conditions but also for the price of the property. Even a divorce lawyer in Miami, FL, will require excellent negotiation skills... --- - Published: 2021-03-17 - Modified: 2021-09-24 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/why-you-need-a-divorce-attorney-by-your-side/ It is sad when a marriage comes to an end, but you will have to go through a divorce before it genuinely ends. With so much information available on the internet, it can be tempting to file your divorce. However, a DIY divorce may not be the right solution. It would help if you considered hiring a divorce attorney in Miami, FL. In case you are still sitting on the fence, here are a few compelling reasons to go with a divorce attorney. Expert Advice You will get the advice of an experienced and knowledgeable attorney, who will make sure that you get what you deserve during the divorce. You may not be entitled to an equal split of assets and your divorce attorney in Miami, Florida, will be able to offer you advice and ensure your interests are protected. Some divorces can be messy, especially when there are child custody and spousal support issues. If you have financial issues and owe creditors as well, the divorce attorney may work alongside a bankruptcy lawyer in Miami, Florida. Minimize Your Stress Divorce, no matter how amicable it is, can be very stressful. You can reduce your stress by working with a divorce lawyer, who will handle every aspect of your case. That way, you will have more time to focus on yourself and your kids. The lawyer will manage the entire legal work so that you don’t have to. Avoid Mistakes It is prudent to understand that divorce laws and the... --- - Published: 2021-02-18 - Modified: 2021-09-24 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/how-to-get-rid-of-unreasonably-high-payments-with-child-support-modification/ Payments for child support in Florida are determined on the basis of several factors, such as parental income, parenting time, and the monthly costs of supporting the child. As these factors can change at any time in the future, child support adjustment can be a legal recourse available to both parents. Florida child support modification is only possible when a parent can establish an ongoing and substantial change in circumstances. The onus is on the requesting parent to prove that such a change has occurred. If you believe that you are burdened with unreasonably high payments in a substantial and permanently changed set of circumstances, you complete a child support modification form and file a motion requesting the Florida court to lower your child support payments. When can you Modify a Child Support Order To modify child support payments, the most basic factor that a Florida court will consider is your change of income. Florida law does not specify any absolute amount by which your income must increase or decrease, but the income change must alter your child support payments by a minimum of $50 or 15 percent, whichever is higher. Change of expenses may also result in modification of child support payments, provided expenses like daycare were originally factored into the child support calculation. For instance, you are bearing the costs of your child’s daycare, and a few years down the line if your child joins kindergarten at a public school, it may be grounds for lowering child support.... --- - Published: 2021-02-04 - Modified: 2022-12-18 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/learn-how-a-real-estate-attorney-in-miami-can-help-you/ Every business goes through its ups and downs. When there is a financial loss in the company, you have to keep taking financial help in the form of loans and keeping assets as a mortgage to keep the functions of the business running. Assets can be taken by the bank at any time if you fail to fulfill the repayment of the loan amount. This process is called the foreclosure of the property in case of bankruptcy. You definitely don’t want to lose your assets, right? So, it is better that you take advice from a good bankruptcy and real estate attorney Miami FL who has experience in filing petitions under chapter 7 and chapter 13. These 2 chapters protect the rights of individuals and prevent the bank from taking their assets away. Chapters 11 and 13 offer reorganization of the deal made between the debtor and the lender. The deal is re-considered to make things adjustable for the debtor and avoid foreclosure. These complicated terms and measures are difficult to understand for a layman, but for a lawyer who has been practicing in this area, it is an everyday business. Instead of making silly decisions and getting yourself into further trouble, you should consider consulting a bankruptcy attorney or real estate lawyer in Miami. How a real estate lawyer can help? Real estate lawyers know about all the rules and legal formalities that the government has set in the case of bankruptcy. He/she deals with such problems every single... --- - Published: 2021-01-21 - Modified: 2021-09-24 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/adoption-and-divorce-who-gets-the-children/ If you adopt a child and then divorce in Florida, your legal rights as an adopted parent are equivalent to those of a biological parent during and after a divorce. Adoption and child support as well as custody issues can be confusing for divorcing couples, and it is best to seek legal guidance from an experienced divorce attorney. Legal Custody of an Adopted Child Under Florida law, child custody is legally termed as “time sharing. ” The law in the state presumes that joint legal custody (known as “shared parental responsibility”) is in the best interest of every child, including an adopted child. Legal custody gives a parent the right to make key decisions in the adopted child’s life, including his or her education, health care, and religious training. If the divorcing parties in Florida disagree about who gets custody of an adopted child, a family court will determine how they will share time with the child. The court may also award sole custody to one parent, if it finds that joint legal custody is not in the child’s best interests. Child Support if Child is Adopted Child support is an important aspect of adoption and divorce. Following a full legal adoption, the rights and duties of both the biological parents are legally terminated, while the same rights and duties are bestowed upon the parents who adopt the child. In the event of a divorce, the legal obligation to make child support payments now lies upon the adopted parents, and... --- - Published: 2021-01-07 - Modified: 2021-09-24 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/bankruptcy-becoming-an-option-for-those-hit-hard-by-pandemic/ CBS4's Hank Tester spoke with attorney Patrick Cordero, whose firm is known for bankruptcy work. Article Link --- - Published: 2020-12-11 - Modified: 2021-09-24 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/the-hidden-benefits-of-declaring-corporate-bankruptcy/ Every business must recognize the risks of corporate financial distress and bankruptcy and be prepared for the unthinkable. While there are obvious downsides to choosing this path, a Chapter 11 or Chapter 7 bankruptcy corporation discharge may be the right strategy in certain situations. Advantages of Corporate Bankruptcy Chapter 11 A Chapter 11 bankruptcy is typically filed by large corporation as the process is usually longer and more complex. However, a key advantage of corporate bankruptcy Chapter 11 is that you get the first right to propose a debt reorganization plan. If the court accepts your plan, the process moves forward. Automatic Injunction As the debtor who is filing a Chapter 11 petition, you will benefit from an automatic stay on any foreclosures, lawsuits, wage garnishments, bank levies, and such other activities. If you are facing aggressive creditor action for collection, an automatic injunction can be very helpful and serve as the first step in debt reorganization. Recovery and Avoidance of Actions Once you are in Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, you can avoid and recover some wage garnishments, bank levies, and even repossession of equipment or vehicles that may have occurred before you filed for bankruptcy. Preservation of Business Your business as a going concern can continue to operate in a Chapter 11 corporate bankruptcy. This means your business, your customer, supplier, and investor base can be preserved. Advantages of Corporate Bankruptcy Chapter 7 This is the more common form of corporate bankruptcy because the legal process, from filing to... --- - Published: 2020-12-04 - Modified: 2021-09-24 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/how-does-bankruptcy-court-work-in-florida/ Bankruptcy is a legal process designed for individuals who are unable to repay their debts, and want to make a fresh financial beginning. The federal law provides the right to file for bankruptcy, and the United States bankruptcy court (federal court) will handle all bankruptcy cases. Obtaining a Copy of Your Bankruptcy Filing Public access to Florida bankruptcy court documents is provided by the federal judiciary through an electronic service called PACER (Public Access to Court Electronic Records). Your bankruptcy lawyer in Florida will help you obtain a copy of your bankruptcy filing through this system. What can a Florida Bankruptcy Court do for You? The United States bankruptcy court has the power to help you make a new financial start. With a competent legal representation from Florida bankruptcy attorney, you may be able to get relief in the following areas: Removal of your legal obligation to repay all or most of your debts (debt discharge). Stop foreclosure on your home and provide you an opportunity to start fresh and catch up on the missed mortgage payments. Prevent any repossession of your property or vehicle, or ask the creditors to return any repossessed property. Put an end to debt collection harassment, wage garnishment, and other creditor tactics to recover debt. Restore a terminated utility service or prevent termination. Give you the opportunity to challenge creditor claims if they have acted fraudulently or are otherwise seeking to collect more than what you actually owe. Types of Bankruptcy You can File in... --- - Published: 2019-11-01 - Modified: 2020-07-31 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/custody-determined-during-divorce-florida/ When divorcing couples in Florida disagree about child custody during divorce, the court will determine their time-sharing with the children. Since 2008, Florida legally utilizes the term “time-sharing” to refer to child custody resulting from a divorce where a court allocates time to each parent. This fact only represents one of the numerous laws in Florida surrounding child custody in a divorce. Therefore, let’s look further into the regulations to show how a court determines this custody or time-sharing during a divorce. Considering the Child’s Best Interests On the issue of child custody and divorce, Florida family courts base their decisions on what is in the child’s best interests. Although they evaluate each situation individually, these courts realize that most of the time the child’s best interests require relatively equal amounts of visitation with both parents after the divorce. Initially, both parents have equal rights to child custody. A Florida Court Will Determine Custody Using These Factors  Child custody and divorce is a serious issue. The judges in Florida will pay close attention to any factors that can help them determine what is in the child’s best interests in the context of time-sharing. Child’s Safety and Health  Florida family law court will not apply the policy of shared parental responsibility if it believes that it will harm the child. If the court finds evidence of sexual or domestic violence, child abuse, neglect, or abandonment, parents could lose the rights to child custody after a divorce. In some cases, the judge... --- - Published: 2019-10-25 - Modified: 2020-07-31 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/type-bankruptcy-right-me/ No single form of bankruptcy for Florida individuals and businesses is universally best. Your financial situation and goals will determine what type of bankruptcy is right for you. You will also have to fulfill certain eligibility criteria to qualify for a specific bankruptcy. For instance, you may file Chapter 7 bankruptcy if your income level is below the legally stipulated threshold. On the other hand, if your income level is significantly high, you may file for Chapter 13. If you wish to protect your business in bankruptcy, the right choice for you as a corporation may be Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Let’s explore bankruptcy further in this article and help you answer the question, “What type of bankruptcy is right for me? ” When Is Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Preferred Over Chapter 13? Once you are clear about what bankruptcy is and how to file for it, you need to determine the type of bankruptcy that works best for you. If you are looking to get rid of most of your debt, you may choose Chapter 7 bankruptcy. In this case, you will also end up losing more of your assets. On the other hand, under Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you will be able to retain more of your assets, but the debt repayment requirements are also higher. Moreover, if you don’t want to spend too much time on the bankruptcy process, Chapter 7 filing may be better for you because it only requires around four to six months. Conversely, Chapter 13 bankruptcy... --- - Published: 2019-10-18 - Modified: 2020-07-31 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/different-types-bankruptcy/ Many people who struggle with an increasing level of unpayable debt will face this critical question: “Should I file for bankruptcy? ” Bankruptcy may seem overly drastic, but in many cases, it is the most viable option to come out of a financially stressful situation. Each year in the United States, there are nearly one million individual and corporate bankruptcy cases. Once you decide to go ahead with bankruptcy, the next step is to determine which type of bankruptcy is most suitable for your situation. This article will describe the different types of bankruptcy so that you can make an informed decision about this crucial financial step. Chapter 7 Bankruptcy In Florida, Chapter 7 bankruptcy also goes by individual bankruptcy because individuals use it more than businesses. Its advantage lies in its simplicity and a relatively faster process of liquidation. Under Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you will have to submit all your non-exempt assets to a trustee. Chapter 7 individual bankruptcy requires a means test as a qualification for filing this protection. If the judge in a bankruptcy court believes that you have the means to repay your creditors, they may dismiss your bankruptcy filing, and you might have to switch to Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Unlike Chapter 7 bankruptcy, a Chapter 13 bankruptcy does not involve immediately discharging part of the debt or turning over your non-exempt assets to a trustee. In Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you must make a financial plan to repay your creditors, at least in... --- - Published: 2019-10-11 - Modified: 2020-09-11 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/declare-corporate-bankruptcy/ Corporate bankruptcy Chapter 11 is a protection offered to companies that are going through financial distress. In functional terms, this bankruptcy is quite similar to Chapter 13 because these both involve a repayment plan to meet debt obligations. But the key difference is that corporate bankruptcy is oriented towards businesses, while Chapter 13 is geared towards individuals. Protect Your Florida Business with Chapter 11 In a situation of unmanageable debt, a Chapter 11 bankruptcy helps corporations remain in operation. This protection will allow your business to restructure secured as well as unsecured debt to an extent where your company can survive and gradually grow out of the balance debt. This route is often chosen by companies that still have a viable and profitable business, but their debt obligations have significantly exceeded their operating revenues. Chapter 11 is the only option that allows a business owned by a corporation, LLC or a partnership to reorganize and restructure its debt and stay in operation. Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Corporation In some situations, a company may alternatively consider filing a corporate bankruptcy Chapter 7 (which is different from Chapter 7 personal bankruptcy). Filing a Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Florida, a corporation turns over its business to the trustee for liquidation. Business operations will end, and the trustee will liquidate assets to pay for the business creditors. No exemptions are applicable in this bankruptcy, and the entire company can be liquidated. Once the liquidation has been completed and creditors paid from the proceeds, the business... --- - Published: 2019-10-08 - Modified: 2020-07-31 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/senior-can-file-bankruptcy-senior-citizens/ Bankruptcy for senior citizens and retirees is a sensitive issue, and they should know their options to make a well-informed decision. While seniors can file for bankruptcy, they should do it with legal guidance from a reputable and reliable Florida bankruptcy lawyer. Senior citizens filing bankruptcy should understand what it can or cannot do for them. Problems related to retirement funds, Social Security, and homeownership may arise for a senior that Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 Florida bankruptcy can solve. In some cases, seniors may not need to file for bankruptcy to protect their assets and income. This article will explore bankruptcy for seniors and discuss when and what type of bankruptcy is appropriate for seniors in dire straits financially. Bankruptcy and Senior Citizens – Protecting Your Home If you have substantial home equity not covered by a Florida homestead exemption, a trustee in a Chapter 7 bankruptcy can sell your home to pay off the creditors. Seniors are often at a greater risk of losing their homes because many of them have a significant amount of home equity or no mortgage payment. A Chapter 13 bankruptcy allows you to keep your home provided you continue making timely mortgage payments. Chapter 13 also has a provision to help you pay off any mortgage arrears.   Bankruptcy and Retirement Accounts  Retirement accounts are a vital asset for many seniors to finance their golden years. Bankruptcy will protect most types of retirement accounts. A Chapter 7 bankruptcy will protect nearly all types... --- - Published: 2019-10-04 - Modified: 2020-07-31 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/florida-prenup-agreement-sure-thing/ Individuals who are planning to marry should know clearly what a prenup agreement is, and whether it makes sense to have a prenup in place. The question is particularly important when the individual in question has a substantial amount of assets.   A Florida prenup agreement is a contract that the spouses may enter into to agree upon certain financial terms and obligations they will abide by during their marriage and in the unfortunate event of a divorce.   Can a Florida Prenup Agreement be Challenged? In general, the courts in Florida will enforce a prenup as long as it is in compliance with the Florida prenuptial agreement statute. However, the prenup can be challenged when it was the product of coercion, duress, fraud, or overreaching, it was not voluntarily entered into, or it was unconscionable when it was signed because of deficiencies in financial disclosure.   Right to Enforce a Prenup is not Entirely Unrestricted In principle, Florida courts would prefer to avoid setting aside a prenup. Public policy in the state favors individuals deciding what is in their best interests through a contractual arrangement. But this right to enforce a contract is not entirely without restrictions. Although the law strongly presumes that a well-prepared and executed contract expresses the real intent of the parties, the Supreme Court of Florida set out a test for when a prenuptial agreement might be considered invalid:  Firstly, a spouse can modify or set aside a Florida prenup agreement if they can establish... --- - Published: 2019-09-27 - Modified: 2020-07-31 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/asset-division-during-divorce/ While dividing assets during a divorce, Florida courts will apply the theory of equitable division. Equitable is slightly different from equal in the eyes of the law.   A Florida judge may believe that an arithmetically equal division is unfair in a particular case, and may divide the assets in a different proportion after taking into consideration various factors.   Factors Considered while Dividing Property in a Divorce Whether it is a question of dividing the typical marital assets such as a house, jewelry, and cash, or more complex assets such as stock options after divorce, Florida family court will consider a number of factors, such as:  How long did the marriage last  Financial circumstances of each party Contributions of each spouse to the marriage (which also includes contributions as a parent or homemaker) Contributions of each spouse to income  Contributions of each spouse to improve marital or separate property Whether marital or non-marital assets were affected by the debts incurred by either party Intended dissipation of marital assets by either spouse after the filing of the divorce petition or within two years before such filing While dividing assets during divorce, a Florida court will also look at how simple or complicated it is to divide a particular asset. For instance, the judge will consider how to split stocks in a divorce where the stock is of an unlisted company or a startup and it is difficult to assign a current value to the stock.   Another issue that may... --- - Published: 2019-09-20 - Modified: 2020-12-11 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/first-time-florida-bankruptcy-court-need-know/ When you are under significant financial debt, you may consider filing for bankruptcy in the United States bankruptcy court. While not every bankruptcy case is complicated, they are not all easy either. Things can get confusing, especially when it is your first time in a Florida bankruptcy court. Therefore, make sure you have a bankruptcy attorney with top skills and experience to handle your case. This article will describe the concept of bankruptcy, as well as the process associated with different types of bankruptcy. Determining the Complexity of Your Bankruptcy The complexity of your bankruptcy will usually depend on: The facts and circumstances of your case Which type of bankruptcy you choose to file Whether it is a no-asset or asset bankruptcy (will the bankruptcy trustee sell any of your assets) Whether the case involves bankruptcy litigation Protecting Assets in a Florida Bankruptcy Court One of the key concerns you will have when it is your first time in a US bankruptcy court is whether you will lose your property and everything else you own. The short answer is you won’t. Depending on the type of bankruptcy and the facts of your case, you might not lose any assets at all. A close look at Florida’s exemption laws will give you an idea of which of your assets you might be able to protect. Any assets that appear on the federal non-bankruptcy exemption list, as well as the Florida state exemption list, you can retain. However, your non-exempt assets will... --- - Published: 2019-09-13 - Modified: 2020-07-31 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/capital-assets-investments-following-divorce-need-know/ In a Florida divorce, once you identify which assets are marital and which are separate, you may have concerns about how the court will deal with your capital assets and investments. You and your spouse probably made investments intending to get returns, but this situation can have complications when dividing assets during divorce. If your non-marital investments appreciated or generated any income during your marriage, then that growth or income component could become marital property.   For instance, if your employer gave you stock options as a job perk, and during the marriage, these stock options are vested, a court could treat them as marital property. Therefore, dividing stocks in a divorce can be a complicated process. This article will outline your rights and options when it comes to dividing capital assets and investments during a divorce. Dividing Stock Options After a Divorce Divorce stock transfer is one of the more complex aspects of property division. In many cases, employees receive stock options as a reward for their work performance. Sometimes an employer may issue you stock options at the outset to hire or retain you, putting a condition that you cannot sell those stocks for a specified period.   This stipulation could create difficulties when it comes to dividing stock options after divorce. Similarly, putting a value to the stocks can be difficult because the market conditions may be temporarily volatile, or the stock may belong to a non-public company where the market value is hard to determine.  ... --- - Published: 2019-09-06 - Modified: 2020-12-22 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/mortgage-modification-matter/ Your financial situation may go through its ups and downs, and there could be a time when you start falling behind on your monthly mortgage payments or find yourself struggling to keep up. In this situation, a mortgage loan modification may provide you a practical solution. This article will describe mortgage modification and summarize the benefits of this method for your finances. What Is a Mortgage Modification? Mortgage modification is a legal technique to create a permanent alteration to some of the terms and conditions of your existing mortgage agreement due to a financial situation change. With a mortgage loan modification, it is possible to reduce your monthly payments by removing the late fee, lowering your interest rate, increasing the total repayment period, and reducing your principal balance. The purpose of a loan modification is to provide homeowners with a viable solution to their repayment challenges. However, achieving a favorable mortgage modification is not always easy or straightforward. The right approach is to retain the services of a competent loan modification attorney to represent you rather than going through the process all by yourself. Benefits of Mortgage Loan Modification in Florida In mortgage modification, your lender agrees to alter some aspects of your home loan. Banks have been granting reasonable requests of modification to help homeowners in Florida avoid foreclosure. You can expect the following benefits: Reduce your monthly payments Lower the interest rate on your loan Reduce the loan’s principal amount Forgive penalties and late fees Shift the arrears... --- - Published: 2019-08-23 - Modified: 2021-01-14 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/want-move-state-after-divorce-need-know/ Moving out of state after a divorce may sometimes be a necessity due to a compelling opportunity. If you are in this situation, you should know the rules for moving out of Florida when involving a child. Florida family court will balance the custodial parent’s right to relocation after divorce for a legitimate reason with the non-moving parent’s right to remain in meaningful contact with the child. This article will examine this situation and offer the legal rights of a parent to relocate after a child custody agreement. What Constitutes an Out-of-State Move After a Divorce? In terms of child relocation, Florida law considers a move of at least 50 miles from the parent’s current residence over 60 days as a relocation. Any temporary move for a child’s education, medical care, or vacation is still a relocation under the law. Both parties in Florida may sign a written agreement if they mutually agree to the idea of child relocation. This agreement should specify the terms of the relocation and the new time-sharing arrangements. When To File a Petition To Relocate? If both parties are not in agreement over the post-divorce child relocation, the parent who is considering moving out of state after a divorce will have to file a Petition to Relocate in the Florida court and serve it on the co-parent. The non-moving parent must respond within 20 days after receiving this petition. If no response is forthcoming within this time limit, the court may permit relocation even without... --- - Published: 2019-08-16 - Modified: 2021-01-14 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/understanding-child-relocation-considerations-post-divorce/ Relocating children after divorce requires you to follow a specific procedure prescribed under Florida law. This process applies when you or the other parent in a time-sharing agreement plans to move farther than 50 miles away from your current location. It is possible to obtain permission to relocate by petitioning the family court or by reaching an agreement with the other parent. This article will outline your rights concerning child relocation after divorce. How To Ensure Legal Child Relocation After Divorce In Florida, even when co-parents are mutually agreeable to relocation, they have to ensure that the agreement conforms with Florida law. The law requires the agreement to be in writing, and it should account for transportation and other related expenses. Moreover, the arrangement should outline a revised parenting plan and receive sanction by a Florida court to be valid. If you are the custodial parent moving, and the co-parent does not agree with your plan, you will have to serve him or her with a “Petition to Relocate. ” This petition should include relevant information such as why, where, and when you are planning to move with the child. Also, child relocation after divorce will require you to submit to the Florida family court how you will address the new time-sharing issues in a way that doesn’t adversely affect the non-moving co-parent’s visitation. Following your petition, if the other party does not object within 20 days, the court may determine that the relocation is in the best interest of... --- - Published: 2019-08-09 - Modified: 2021-01-06 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/three-surprising-facts-dividing-business-assets-during-divorce/ Dividing property in a divorce in Florida is one of the key issues that both parties must resolve, either through a mutually acceptable agreement or through a court order. The divorce court in Florida will classify marital and non-marital property while dividing assets during a divorce. Here are a few lesser-known or poorly understood facts about property division in a Florida divorce - particularly, business assets. Dividing Stock Options is a Complex Issue One of the more complicated aspects of marital property division in Florida is how to split stocks in a divorce. A spouse may have earned stock options based on his or her past job performance, or an employer may have provided stock options as compensation to retain and incentivize. Valuation of stock options in a divorce can be difficult, particularly when the company is a startup or a fledgling enterprise with a promising future and no proven track record of success. Methods to Value Stock Options Can Have Limitations Stock options after divorce will be divided based on the market valuation of the company’s stock. Two common methods of stock option valuation include the “intrinsic value” method and the “Black-Scholes” method. Parties seeking a divorce in Florida are often unaware that both methods come with their own limitations. It is important to choose an appropriate valuation method that does not put you at a disadvantage. Intrinsic Value Method Under this method, the value of the stock option is based on the difference between the option grant price... --- - Published: 2019-08-02 - Modified: 2021-01-14 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/what-same-sex-couples-need-know-child-custody-support/ Same-sex marriages in Florida received legal recognition in 2015. Now LGBTQ couples can utilize the court system in Florida for a divorce if something goes wrong in their relationship. They now have rights related to same-sex child custody and support at the time of divorce. Understanding LGBT Child Custody and Support in Florida Child custody in Florida is called a “time-sharing” arrangement. Under this ruling, the court will decide how LGBT parental rights and responsibilities are to be divided between both parents. For same-sex child custody, the Florida court will make use of several factors, such as: The parenting capabilities of each spouse The individual relationships with the child The child’s wishes If the parents are not able to finalize a time-sharing arrangement, the court will determine which parent would be responsible for making key decisions for the child. The court’s verdict will also cover issues such as same-sex child support and visitation rights. Same-Sex Child Custody Challenges in Florida A family court will hear same-sex child custody and same-sex child support issues in Florida. But the laws related to LGBT marriage and divorce are still fairly new in the state. Therefore, child custody decisions in these cases can be more challenging. The court will consider what is in the child’s best interests. In Florida, courts have denied visitation to anyone who is not the child’s legal parent. LGBT child custody and visitation can be difficult in cases where one partner is the biological parent, while the other partner hasn’t... --- - Published: 2019-07-26 - Modified: 2020-12-30 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/six-facts-know-signing-florida-prenup-agreement/ Prenups aren’t simply pieces of paper to be signed, rather, they are complex legal documents. You may want a Florida prenup agreement to protect your assets in a divorce and to bring more predictability and certainty to your financial future. Here are six facts you need to know before signing a prenup agreement in Florida. What is a Prenup Agreement? A prenuptial agreement, also known as a “pre-marital agreement” in Florida, refers to a contract between prospective spouses to decide how specific issues such as property division and alimony would be addressed during a divorce. A prenup imposes a legal obligation on both parties concerning certain financial aspects that are likely to arise in a divorce. Requirements for a Legally Enforceable Florida Prenup Agreement Florida prenuptial agreement statutes require that a prenup should be a written document and both parties must sign it. In addition, both parties should voluntarily agree to sign the prenup and make all the necessary financial disclosures as part of the agreement. A Prenup is More Appropriate for Certain Individuals While a Florida prenup agreement is well-suited for most prospective spouses, it is more appropriate for individuals who: Have pre-marital assets, which they wish to protect in the event of a divorce Own a business before marriage, which they would prefer to keep separate in case the marriage fails Have children from a previous marriage, and wish to simplify future inheritance issues Wish to pre-determine the issues related to alimony during a divorce Issues that can... --- - Published: 2019-07-19 - Modified: 2020-12-18 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/little-known-ways-maximize-homes-short-sale/ When a struggling homeowner is trying to avoid foreclosure, a short sale process may seem like a solid option. But what is the process of a short sale and how does it work in Florida? If a homeowner is selling the home for less than what is owed on it, it is considered a short sale. Sometimes, the mortgage lenders who approve a short sale may later pursue the borrower for subsequent negative loan balance or deficiency. That’s why if you are trying to short-sell your home, you must find a way to reduce any potential losses or negative balances. How does a Short Sale Work for the Seller in Florida? Short-selling your home means hiring a realtor and putting your home on the market for its current value. But if the mortgage balance turns out to be more than the sales price, you (the homeowner) will not have sufficient funds at closing to pay the bank. This is why it’s called a “short sale. ” Banks are much more willing these days to allow the borrowers to walk away legally with a short sale – usually without a loss, all due to their massive foreclosure backlogs. Sometimes, the bank will even offer homeowners a good amount of money to agree to the short-sale. Homeowners can then use this money to make a down payment or rent a more affordable home. However, when trying to short-sell your home, it is crucial to hire an attorney who has experience with short-selling.... --- - Published: 2019-07-12 - Modified: 2020-07-31 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/pets-and-divorce-law-gets-keep-pets-divorce/ According to the recent National Pet Owners Survey, over 65 percent of Florida homeowners own at least one pet. When a couple files for the divorce, most people are understandably worried about losing the custody of their pet. Whether it is a dog, a cat, or a hamster, pets are often seen as extensions of their family, just of the furry or four-legged varieties. And even though most pet owners have an extremely strong relationship with their beloved animals, it is important to remember that the Florida law still classifies pets as property. In other words, pets are also subject to the law of equitable distribution during a divorce proceeding. Who gets the Pets in a Divorce? In Florida, pets fall under the marital property but there are special factors involved when settling the pet custody. Here are a few issues that are considered when determining the custody of pets in a divorce: The Emotional Value - If the pet is listed as a therapy or support animal for either you or your spouse, it is most likely to affect the court’s decision. The Financial Value - If the pet is an exotic animal, such as a purebred dog or a rare bird, its financial value is significantly higher than “most” pets, therefore, commanding a considerable financial value. In that case, you may have to trade some other property to keep the pet(s) in the divorce settlement. Child Custody Arrangement - If you are the primary custodian of your children,... --- - Published: 2019-07-05 - Modified: 2020-12-22 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/need-know-relocating-children-after-divorce/ In many cases, one parent may consider relocating the children after the divorce. But is it legal? Does Florida law support the custodial parent moving a child out of state? If the child moves to another state with a parent, it is most likely to affect the visitation schedule with another parent. In Florida, a judge can allow the custodial parent to move if it is for a legitimate reason, such as a job opportunity. At the same time, the judge will factor in the non-relocating parent’s right to have significant contact with the child. How Far Can a Parent Move With Joint Custody? The Florida child custody law states that if a parent is moving 50 miles or more from the current location of residence, for at least 60 days, it will be considered as a “relocation. ” However, if a parent has to move temporarily for the purposes of vacation or providing medical care or education to the child, it is not considered a relocation. If moving the kids after divorce becomes necessary, then the parents may reach an understanding by signing a written agreement that spells out the new custody arrangement. This agreement must include the approval of the noncustodial parent regarding the move, a record of transportation secured by the parents for visitation, and any other necessary changes to the visitation schedule. If there is any other extended family member with visitation rights (such as the grandparents), they will also have to agree to the custodial... --- - Published: 2019-06-28 - Modified: 2020-12-30 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/secret-effectiveness-mortgage-modification/ A mortgage modification or a loan modification refers to the arrangement where a borrower requests – and gets approved – to reduce the mortgage payments. If the borrower is going through financial hardship, such as losing a job or an increase in mortgage payments, a loan modification can bring the payments down to a more affordable level. What is a Mortgage Modification? A mortgage modification can mean several things, including a reduction in the term of the loan, the principal balance, or the interest rate. Most lenders use a combination of these factors to create a mortgage modification program. This often results in a lower mortgage payment to the borrower (homeowner) and allows them to afford to keep the home. If you are struggling to pay your mortgage payments or have failed to pay the last few payments, a mortgage modification might be a great option for you. It can reduce your monthly payment by lowering your principal balance, extending the repayment period, reducing your interest rate, or eliminating late fees. Since a mortgage modification creates a permanent change to one or more conditions of your loan agreement, it can provide you with a long-term solution to your loan payment issues. But it should be noted that getting a loan modification is not easy. Trying to obtain a mortgage modification on your own can be a harrowing process or it can fail altogether. Consider talking to a competent attorney who has experience dealing with the banks and other lending institutions.... --- - Published: 2019-06-21 - Modified: 2020-07-31 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/fight-foreclosure-florida/ Are you living in fear of being served a foreclosure notice in Florida? Or are you already in foreclosure? Regardless of the situation, the critical question is the following: how do you fight the foreclosure process and prevent losing your property in Florida.   In this post, we will discuss some of the most effective ways you can fight a Florida foreclosure. Read on to find out everything you need to know to either stop the foreclosure altogether or prolong it for as long as possible.   Forbearance  If you have missed a few mortgage payments, you can call your bank to stop foreclosure and ask for a “forbearance”. It allows the homeowner to extend the length of their mortgage so that they can make up for missed payments.   This way, the missed mortgage payments are forgiven and added to the end of the mortgage. If you are already in foreclosure in Florida, it’d be best to hire a reliable foreclosure defense lawyer who can successfully obtain a forbearance for you.   Refinancing  If you have equity and you have never missed any mortgage payments in the past year, then refinancing can be a viable option. However, refinancing is not for homeowners who owe more than their house is worth.   If you are in a position to avail refinancing, contact your bank as soon as possible and discuss your refinancing options. If you have equity in your home, the process will be much easier and you’ll be able... --- - Published: 2019-06-14 - Modified: 2021-01-06 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/three-signs-marriage-might-heading-towards-divorce/ There are over 787,000 divorces in the United States each year. Each and every one of these broken marriages started as a happy couple with bright dreams for their future. However, the stark reality is that divorce happens. This does not mean it comes out of the blue, though. Certain signs of a failing marriage are common for many people – regardless of age, race, gender, sexual orientation, or any other factors. Learn these signs and marriage advice for what to do about them, below. You’re Fighting Nonstop There are countless reasons that couples fight. These range from money, to children, to infidelity, and even the daily stresses of life. Whatever the reason in your particular case, rest assured that fights alone are not a sign of a failing marriage. When you and your spouse are fighting nonstop, however, something is amiss. If you find yourself constantly bickering, criticizing, and complaining about your partner, then you may be heading towards divorce and a broken marriage. The good news is that couples therapy can help turn these fights into something constructive. Remember that fights happen for a reason. A neutral third-party, like a therapist or counselor, can help you and your spouse determine that reason and move towards fixing it. Marriage tips are not always this straightforward, but they are when nonstop fighting is involved. You’re Not Communicating Communication is the cornerstone of a healthy marriage. Sharing openly and honestly with your spouse is a non-negotiable part of the marriage pact.... --- - Published: 2019-06-07 - Modified: 2020-07-31 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/exclusive-use-contract/ An exclusive use contract is a clause that’s generally used in commercial leases. What does “exclusive use” mean? It refers to the clause that the tenant can only use the leased property for a specific purpose. One of the most common examples of an exclusive use agreement is shopping complex lease agreements, where the tenant is only allowed to use the space for one pre-defined activity. It could be a clothing store, a cosmetic store, or a restaurant. The exclusive use agreement also restricts other tenants from using their spaces for the same purpose. The Effects of an “Exclusive Use” Contract Let’s continue the previous example of a shopping complex. In this case, the exclusive use contract will affect several other tenants in the complex as well. Once the agreement is signed, the landlord will need to be extra careful not to breach the contract by allowing a similar business to lease a spot. It’s pivotal that landlords who manage large shopping complexes have a list of all signed exclusive use contracts so they can avoid any possible conflict of interest later. In addition, landlords must also ensure they are capable of handling a situation where anyone is found breaking a previous exclusive use agreement. This is why all lease agreements should clearly state the penalties for engaging in any activity that violates the previously-agreed exclusivity clause. How “Exclusive Use” Contracts Work Before signing on the dotted line, both the landlord and the tenant should make sure that the contract... --- - Published: 2019-05-24 - Modified: 2020-07-31 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/courts-determine-custody-florida/ According to divorce and family laws in Florida, the courts determine child custody based on what would be in the best interests of the child. During the custody hearing, the court addresses both the physical and legal care of children involved in their parents’ divorce or separation. The Process of Child Custody Florida child custody laws incorporate a version of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act, which is enacted if the parents live in different states. The purpose of this law is to make sure the custody hearings are held in the home state of the child. This Florida law also states that if a child is taken out of Florida during any part of child custody proceedings, the parent can be considered in violation of the law. How Does a Court Decide Custody in Florida? A number of factors are considered by the court to finalize the child custody, including the following guidelines: The sense of responsibility and character of each parent. Whether a parent can meet the child’s needs and provide a stable home life. The length of time a child has lived in a stable home and the further need for stability. The amount of love and affection the child feels for each parent. The preference of the child (if the child is a suitable age and is able to inform the court of their desires). The willingness of each parent to maintain a loving relationship between the child and another parent. The physical and... --- - Published: 2019-05-17 - Modified: 2020-07-31 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/what-is-a-final-divorce-order/ The final divorce order is the document that officially signifies the end of the marriage, returning both the spouses back to their “single” status. Also known as a divorce decree or final judgment, it lists all the terms of the divorce, including: The division of assets A parenting plan, which involves issues such as: whether a parent will pay child support, which parent will have child custody, where will the child go to school, etc. Even though it is called the “final” divorce order, the terms of the agreement can be changed later if circumstances warrant an alteration. How the Divorce Process Works Are you wondering how the divorce process works in the state of Florida? A divorce decree covers the following issues: Division of the property Division of the debt Alimony Child custody (including the issues of visitation rights and child support) Your divorce only becomes “final” once you have signed the divorce agreement and a judge has approved it (by stamping it with their seal). The court will also mail you a copy of the final divorce order to conclude the divorce proceedings. Ways to Reach the Final Decree As per the Florida law, there are two ways the parties can arrive at a final divorce order. A consent order incorporating the divorce agreement is submitted to the court if both the spouses reach an agreement on all of the issues (those listed above), even with the help of a mediator. After the court approves it, a final... --- - Published: 2019-05-10 - Modified: 2026-02-18 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/legal-implications-debt-divorce-bankruptcy-in-florida/ Divorce is a difficult experience for anyone. Sometimes a divorce may even lead to bankruptcy. If you and spouse are going through divorce and bankruptcy proceedings at the same time, you should know the implications of your actions related to debt and divorce. Types of Personal Bankruptcy in Florida What type of bankruptcy you or your spouse has filed in Florida will have an impact on a concurrent divorce. Chapter 7 Bankruptcy This will allow for most forms of debts to be discharged. If you are seeking a fresh start to clear your debt in bankruptcy, this could be a preferred option for you. Chapter 11 Bankruptcy This will prevent debtors from incurring the loss of valuable property. This approach involves a restructuring of your existing debts, with an aim to make payments in a manageable way over a longer period of time. Married couples under the Florida bankruptcy law are permitted to file a single bankruptcy petition and may even use the same attorney. However, if one of you files for divorce after you file bankruptcy as a couple, you will need to seek a separate bankruptcy attorney. Having the same attorney will create a conflict of interest. A bankruptcy filing could be advantageous to both parties in a Florida divorce. It can simplify the legal process by eliminating debts and assets. Partition of Debt in Divorce Florida follows the law of equitable distribution, which means the debts and assets are distributed fairly. However, “fair” may not always mean... --- - Published: 2019-05-03 - Modified: 2020-12-22 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/retirement-and-bankruptcy-how-does-bankruptcy-affect-retirement-plans/ When you work your entire adult life, the prize at the end of the game is supposed to be a comfortable retirement. With this end in sight, many people choose to set up retirement accounts, either by themselves, through a financial planner, or with the help of an employer. These plans are vital to the success of people’s retirement goals, but what happens in a bankruptcy? When it comes to estate planning and retirement, how does bankruptcy affect retirement plans? Bankruptcy and Retirement Planning Retirement plans are one of the biggest concerns of those who file for bankruptcy protection. After all, saving your whole working life only to have those savings immediately wiped out is never a good thing. Fortunately, the Employment Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) provides protections for some retirement accounts. ERISA-Qualified Retirement Plans ERISA-qualified plans are those that an employer establishes and meets specific IRS tax-exempt guidelines. Examples of ERISA-qualified retirement plans include: 410(k) 403(b) or any profit-sharing program 457(b) deferred compensation retirement plans Tax-exempt organization retirement plans Governmental retirement plans If your retirement plan qualifies as an ERISA plan, it is protected should you file for bankruptcy. The U. S. Supreme Court determined that these plans are not property included in a bankruptcy filing and are protected up to an unlimited amount. Non-ERISA- Qualified Retirement Plans While non-ERISA retirement plans do not have an unlimited amount of protection, they are afforded some protection under federal bankruptcy laws, particularly under the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection... --- - Published: 2019-04-26 - Modified: 2020-07-31 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/what-to-do-if-you-are-sued-by-a-debt-collector/ When you are in financial difficulty, it may seem impossible to keep making payment. What happens, however, when creditors run out of patience and file suit? Here’s what to do if a debt collector sues you. Debt Collection Lawsuits Debt collection lawsuits are the most effective way creditors can recover the money they are owed. When debtors fail to make payments as agreed, the creditor may have no other recourse than to file a lawsuit. When a debt collection lawsuit is filed, a debtor has the right to challenge the validity of the debt, as outlined in the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). The FDCPA provides protections for debtors against debt collectors, including the right to seek verification of any debts that a debtor may dispute. Not only does the FDCPA protect debtors from debt collectors, but it also protects unscrupulous lawyers in debt collection lawsuits. Since lawyers are acting on behalf of a debt collector, they are also considered to be a debt collector by the FDCPA, meaning they must remain fully compliant with all aspects of the act. Failure to adhere to the law may result in a court ruling barring the debt collectors from contacting you, a judgment to you for any damages suffered, as well as statutory damage of up to $1,000, and the payment of your attorney fees and court costs. What to Do If a Debt Collector Sues You Respond in Writing Promptly One of the first things you must do if you... --- - Published: 2019-04-17 - Modified: 2020-07-31 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/critical-pick-right-bankruptcy-lawyer/ Filing for bankruptcy isn’t an easy decision. Neither should be finding the right bankruptcy attorney. Bankruptcy has a severe impact on your financial future and is not something to take lightly. Don’t make a hasty decision and rush into bankruptcy with just any lawyer. Here’s why it’s so critical to pick the right bankruptcy lawyer. Seek Experience If you are considering bankruptcy, it is essential that you select a lawyer who has the experience to get you the results you need. When considering experience, you need to weigh far more than just how many years an attorney has been practicing. Look at how many bankruptcy cases they have dealt with, including how many matters relating to the form of bankruptcy you are considering. Some lawyers may only specialize in Chapter 7 bankruptcies, while others base their practice on Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Look for Competence While experience is essential, so is competence. This quality, however, may be difficult to discern. An attorney may have decades of experience in all aspects of bankruptcy law, but they may still be terrible at their job. Conversely, a lawyer may only begin their practice, but they have already started establishing a track record of excellence. When looking into a bankruptcy attorney, be sure to look at their awards, as well as any relevant reviews to see if you are choosing someone who can help you rebuild your financial affairs or someone who will only cause more headaches down the line. Don’t Get a Mill There... --- - Published: 2019-04-10 - Modified: 2020-12-11 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/effects-recent-purchases-chapter-7-bankruptcy-filing/ While filing for bankruptcy is a difficult decision to make, sometimes it is the only recourse for deep-rooted and complex financial problems. With the threat of bankruptcy looming, many might think to spend their assets before filing is a no-brainer. Is it, though? Here’s what you need to know about the effects recent purchases can have on a Chapter 7 bankruptcy filing. What to Know About Recent Purchases and Bankruptcy When a person thinks about purchasing an expensive item before they file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy protection, there are several things they need to consider before making an unwise purchase. While big-ticket buys are never a good idea before filing for bankruptcy, there are certain times when these purchases may be exempt. When considering buying an item, a person runs the risk of the purchase not abiding by the following issues: The purchase was over the allowable exemption limit of the bankruptcy terms. A creditor claiming a debt is nondischargeable because the purchase was made directly before filing for bankruptcy. Exemption Planning and Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Some large purchases, such as appliances, may be exempted from seizure by creditors, depending on several factors, including: The item’s value When it was purchased The method of purchase (cash, credit, financing, etc. ) Bankruptcy exemptions available If you recently purchased a dishwasher for $1000, for example, but your property only has a partial exemption of $500 for a washing machine, the trustee will sell the dishwasher and return the $500 exemption to you.... --- - Published: 2019-04-02 - Modified: 2022-05-02 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/tax-refunds-and-bankruptcy-what-you-need-to-know/ As another year’s deadline for filing your taxes comes and goes, there are important considerations that need to be made. These considerations are especially true if you are considering bankruptcy or have already applied for bankruptcy protection. Here is what you need to know about tax refunds and bankruptcy. Tax Refunds and Bankruptcy When a person files for bankruptcy protection, all of their assets become a part of what is known as the “bankruptcy estate”. This estate is under the management of an appointed trustee, who is responsible for representing the bankrupted individual to creditors, collecting assets, and liquidating those assets to satisfy the debts to creditors. Under bankruptcy law, a tax refund is considered part of the bankruptcy estate. This rule covers the income tax refunds for the period prior to the bankruptcy (should it not be refunded yet), as well as the year of the bankruptcy. Tax refunds are treated thusly because they are considered in the same manner as cash or bank accounts. In the year of your filing, however, the tax refund may be partially returned to you, based upon the date of the filing for bankruptcy protection. For the years after you have filed for bankruptcy, you usually are allowed to keep your entire refund, as this money was not included on the original filing. Tax Refunds in Chapter 7 Bankruptcy If you have yet to file for bankruptcy, but are concerned about what will happen to your refund if you seek bankruptcy protection, the... --- - Published: 2019-03-26 - Modified: 2020-07-31 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/puedo-mantener-mi-auto-de-lujo-rv-y-embarcacion-al-declararme-en-bancarrota-bajo-el-capitulo-13-en-la-florida/ Declararse en bancarrota es una decisión difícil. Al llenarse de deudas, usted puede pensar que su única opción es entregar sus activos a los acreedores. Afortunadamente, al declararse en bancarrota bajo el Capítulo 13, existen opciones disponibles para que mantenga sus activos. Sin embargo, bajo el Capítulo 13 de bancarrota, ¿puede usted quedarse con su RV, embarcación y auto de lujo? ¿Qué es declararse en bancarrota bajo el Capítulo 13? Declararse en bancarrota bajo el Capítulo 13 es el procedimiento en el que el deudor propone un plan de pago a sus acreedores, ofreciendo pagar la totalidad o parte de la deuda con sus ingresos futuros. Generalmente, la liquidación de la deuda se da en un período de tres a cinco años. Si la persona cumple con los términos del plan de pago previamente acordado, la deuda restante se cancela en la fecha de finalización del acuerdo. El Capítulo 13 de bancarrota es usado generalmente para prevenir una ejecución hipotecaria, para cancelar pagos atrasados de una hipoteca o un automóvil, para pagar impuestos atrasados, o para evitar la acumulación de intereses de impuestos locales, estatales o federales. Requisitos para hacer una declaración de bancarrota bajo el Capítulo 13 Para acogerse al Capítulo 13 de bancarrota se deben cumplir los siguientes requisitos: • Tener un ingreso regular. • Su deuda no garantizada no puede exceder la cantidad de $394,725, y su deuda garantizada no puede exceder la cantidad de $1,184,200. • Todas las declaraciones de impuestos deben estar al día y... --- - Published: 2019-03-21 - Modified: 2020-12-18 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/how-chapter-7-can-raise-credit-score/ Managing personal finances and keeping on a budget doesn't seem to be getting any easier. You are being constantly bombarded by "special offers”, “BOGO" deals, and flash sales trying to get you to use that last dollar of the credit limit left on your card. As your debt skyrockets, your credit score falls. Somewhere down the road, you wake up and realize there is no way to dig yourself out of the financial hole you got yourself into. When you get to the point of wishing you could get a fresh start to do it right next time, it’s time to consult an attorney about filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. What Is Chapter 7 Bankruptcy? A Chapter 7 bankruptcy filing is intended to help the debtor ease an unmanageable debt load and have a chance at that fresh start. With that in mind, Chapter 7 bankruptcy is usually considered a last resort to fix a broken financial situation. Debt counseling can sometimes help by showing a way out of the situation short of a bankruptcy filing. However, if you are worried about creditors trying to garnish your wages or have reached the point where the only way you can make a payment on one credit card is to get a cash advance on another, it may be time for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Bankruptcy and Your Credit Score Bankruptcy and your credit score - how does one affect the other? Initially, right after filing the paperwork for a Chapter 7 bankruptcy,... --- - Published: 2019-03-19 - Modified: 2020-07-31 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/como-la-bancarrota-afecta-las-calificaciones-de-credito/ Declararse en quiebra o en bancarrota es una decisión compleja. Puede parecer que tomar este camino implica que su mundo se derrumba a su alrededor. Sin embargo, la bancarrota no significa que todo el peso del mundo recaerá sobre usted. Por el contrario, al declararse en bancarrota el peso de la carga de sus deudas se anula, y tiene usted la oportunidad de un nuevo comienzo. Por supuesto, esto no significa que la bancarrota no tiene inconvenientes. Entonces, ¿cómo afecta la bancarrota su calificación de crédito? ¿Es la bancarrota la decisión correcta para usted? A pesar de que la decisión puede parecer negativa, es importante recordar que la bancarrota implica la anulación de la carga aplastante de la deuda. Si para una persona el pagar la deuda de la tarjeta de crédito se convierte en una lucha constante, el perder el acceso a esta carga puede permitirle aprender a manejar sus finanzas sin la necesidad de acceder a este servicio. Una de las mejores maneras de considerar la bancarrota es enfrentando la realidad de su actual situación financiera. Pregúntese si podría pagar la totalidad de la deuda en un plazo de dos años, en 24 cuotas. De no ser posible, ¿acaso prefiere arrastrar una deuda inservible y recibir golpes continuos en su calificación crediticia? O por el contrario, ¿prefiere aceptar que debe restringir sus finanzas, ahorrándose la tortura y la carga de vivir en una pesadilla de deudas donde ni siquiera puede pagar los intereses mensuales? Calificación de crédito Como... --- - Published: 2019-03-18 - Modified: 2021-09-01 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/loan-modification-mistakes-how-to-fight-back-when-the-bank-makes-a-mistake/ Having your home foreclosed on by your mortgage lender is an experience no one should have to face. But what happens if the lender foreclosed due to a mistake with a loan modification application? If this has happened to you, you may be the victim of wrongful foreclosure. Here is everything you need to know about loan modification mistakes and how to fight back when the bank makes a mistake and wrongfully foreclosure on your property. Wrongful Foreclosure When a home is foreclosed on using improper methods, this is what is known as a wrongful foreclosure. Generally speaking, most wrongful foreclosures are the result of miscommunications between a borrower and a lender. Often, wrongful foreclosures involve lenders such as banks using unethical, inappropriate, or intimidating tactics in an effort to take away the homeowner’s property. Some of the most common tactics used by lenders which are deceitful or unethical include: Unfairly raising interest rates Require unnecessary insurance coverage Violating terms of the mortgage Falsifying foreclosure documents Not following state law Improper loan modification Loan Modifications Mistakes Loan modification mistakes are one of the leading causes of wrongful foreclosure in Florida. When homeowners seek their loans modified to meet their current economic realities, occasionally the mortgage servicers who deal with these applications make crucial mistakes, which in turn result in wrongful foreclosures. Some of the most common loan modification mistakes include: Telling homeowners they cannot apply for a loan modification unless they are in default – During the economic crisis of... --- - Published: 2019-03-11 - Modified: 2020-07-31 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/college-savings-plans-and-bankruptcy-my-child-savings-protected/ Filing for bankruptcy is often a tough decision to make. However, with rising debts and difficulties making important payments, it may be the best chance an individual has at getting their financial feet back under them. But what happens to the funds of those you love, especially those of your children? Are they safe? Is your child’s college savings account protected in bankruptcy? 529 Plan Accounts In many states, including Florida, parents and others are encouraged to open savings accounts to help pay for their children’s higher education. These tax-advantageous accounts are commonly referred to a 529 plan accounts. These plans are named 529 after the section of the IRS tax code where they are outlined. These prepaid and savings plans offer a range of investment and financial breaks for those who deposit into them. But what happens during bankruptcies? Are College Savings Accounts Protected in Bankruptcy? When filing for bankruptcy, many people are concerned about how bankruptcy may affect their children’s savings plans – and for good reason. After all, why should the children be forced to suffer for financial issues related to their parents? Fortunately, in bankruptcies, college saving accounts are generally protected in the event of a parent filing for bankruptcy. While these accounts are usually safe, however, there are strict rules for 529 accounts which must be adhered to. These include: Any monies added to a 529 savings plan account in the two years prior to bankruptcy are fully protected from seizure by the creditors. If... --- - Published: 2019-03-06 - Modified: 2020-07-31 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/exactly-asset-filing-bankruptcy-protection/ When a person files for bankruptcy, they are hoping for the stress of insurmountable debt to disappear. Depending on which type of bankruptcy protection they file, how that debt is repaid differs greatly. One of the key components of settling debts in bankruptcy is the value of the assets. But, what exactly is defined as an “asset“ when filing for bankruptcy protection? Assets Under Chapter 7 Bankruptcy When an individual files for Chapter 7 bankruptcy protection, they are filing for the purpose of protecting themselves from creditors which can take control of their assets and liquidate them to help raise funds to satisfy the debts which have accrued. The debtor has the advantage of protecting their assets, but the debtor has to be aware that certain assets may be subject to liquidation by the trustee including any personal property the individual owns, such real estate interests, business or intellectual rights, and other intangible or tangible assets. In that case, a Chapter 13 filing would be more proper. The trustee of a Chapter 7 bankruptcy is also entitled to assets which may not be in the possession of the individual filing at the time of their declaring bankruptcy. For example, if the person has a right to receive an asset, that asset becomes part of the bankruptcy estate, even if that asset has not yet been acquired. Furthermore, the bankruptcy estate is entitled to the appreciation in any value from property held by the estate during the bankruptcy, and any revenues... --- - Published: 2019-02-28 - Modified: 2022-02-07 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/same-sex-divorce-in-fl/ Same-sex marriage was legally recognized in the state of Florida on Jan. 6, 2015. This landmark ruling allowed all couples the right to marriage, regardless of their sexual orientation. Unfortunately, with marriage can turn into divorce. Under Florida’s marriage laws, same-sex couples have the same rights as straight couples with regards to divorce, child custody and all other facets of family law. Here’s everything you need to know about same-sex divorce in Florida. Same-Sex Divorce For same-sex couples looking to divorce in the State of Florida, they must first file for a petition of divorce in the jurisdiction where they reside. At least one of the spouses who is petitioning for the divorce must also have been a resident in Florida for at least six months prior to the date the petition was filed. Finally, the couple petitioning for the divorce must be able to prove that the marriage has broken down, or that one partner of the married couple is incapacitated mentally. Contested Vs. Uncontested Same-Sex Divorce In many instances, divorces can be mutually agreed upon, meaning that they are uncontested. In uncontested divorces, the terms and settlement of the divorce are amicable and conducted outside of the courthouse. In cases where one of the married couple contests the divorce, however, the couple will be required to appear before a judge who will decide their divorce for them. Often the judge may decide to send the couple to marriage counseling in order to determine if the marriage can be... --- - Published: 2019-02-10 - Modified: 2020-07-31 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/7-datos-basicos-la-corte-de-bancarrota-de-miami-dade/ A pesar de que muchas personas han escuchado hablar de las cortes de bancarrota en los Estados Unidos, algunas no conocen lo que éstas son realmente. Las cortes de bancarrota estadounidenses forman parte de las cortes distritales, y tienen la autoridad de litigar casos específicamente relacionados con la bancarrota. Para conocer más al respecto, a continuación le presentamos siete datos básicos acerca de su corte local de bancarrota en el condado Miami-Dade. 1) Se encuentra ubicada en el centro de la ciudad de Miami. La corte de bancarrota del condado Miami-Dade está ubicada justo al lado del campus universitario Wolfson del Miami-Dade College, en el centro de la ciudad de Miami. La dirección de la corte es 301 North Miami Ave. , Room 150, Miami, FL 33128. 2) Existen requisitos de entrada. Para entrar a la corte de bancarrota de Miami-Dade, es obligatorio presentar una forma de identificación vigente, válida y emitida por el gobierno, como por ejemplo licencia de conducir, tarjeta de identificación del estado, pasaporte o tarjeta de inmigración, y además presentar el pase emitido por el personal de seguridad de la corte. No se permite entrar con teléfonos celulares, dispositivos de grabación, cámaras o dispositivos electrónicos. Sin embargo, la corte tiene la potestad de otorgar permisos para ingresar con un dispositivo electrónico con una orden escrita por un juez que esté verificada por el Servicio de Alguaciles de los Estados Unidos. 3) La corte está cerrada los días de feriado a nivel nacional. Si tiene un problema... --- - Published: 2019-01-25 - Modified: 2021-03-12 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/why-divorces-can-be-empowering/ Far too often, divorce is painted in a negative light. When people think of divorce, they tend to visualize broken families, custody battles, and endless tears. This, however, doesn’t always have to be the case. In fact, divorce can be something which can lead to a personal flowering or renaissance. Don’t believe us? Well, here’s why divorce can be empowering. Financial Freedom Divorce can be the financial freedom a persona has always craved. Say, for instance, you were not the primary “breadwinner” in your marriage, and you, therefore, had to rely on your spouse for financial needs. Maybe you even had to run all spending ideas through them first. Divorce can allow you to have the freedom to spend your money however you like, without having to answer to another person for the first time. While this new-found responsibility does come with some stress – particularly when possibly learning how to budget for the first time – in many instances the short-term financial support offered by alimony allows a person a cushion to find their “financial feet” as they develop their newly empowered life. Divorce Can Help Spark Self-Discovery Divorce is often seen as the end of your old life, but this is an entirely negative outlook. In fact, while it may be the end of what was, it is also the beginning of a new way of living. Perhaps this is best embodied by Renee Catt, an Australian woman who learned that her divorce was a chance at reinvention.... --- - Published: 2019-01-19 - Modified: 2020-12-22 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/moving-out-after-divorce-abandoning-family-assets/ Divorce can be an extremely difficult time. With so much happening, it can seem impossible to think clearly. This is especially true if you are both still living in the marital home. In most cases, one spouse will leave the family home during a divorce, but does leaving pose legal problems down the line? Does moving out of the family home in a divorce mean that you are abandoning your family and your assets? The Marital Home in Florida Divorce Proceedings In a divorce, the marital home is, more often than not, the largest asset in the divorce proceedings. It is also usually an asset which is shared by both parties in the divorce. Thus, the marital home is an important consideration when it comes to the division not only of the assets of the marriage, but also the debts. In the state of Florida, when a home is purchased by a married couple, the home is held in what is known as “tenancy by the entireties”. Since only married couples may hold property in this manner, the deed of purchase will reflect that the couple is married at the time of the purchase. When the parties in a “tenancy by the entireties” deed divorce, the tenancy is destroyed and both parties now reside in the home as joint tenants. In this instance, both parties maintain full ownership of the property, and both parties are entitled to 50-percent of the equity unless special circumstances (as determined in a divorce settlement)... --- - Published: 2019-01-14 - Modified: 2022-03-01 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/smart-technology-and-divorce-can-a-smart-home-hurt-your-divorce-case/ We live in a technologically advanced time. It seems as if everything in our lives is interconnected. From our smartphones, we can control every aspect of our homes, including the lighting, temperature, locks and even the blinds! While this technology brings us so much good, can it also come back to hurt us? Can a smart home hurt your divorce case? Getting divorced is never easy. Building a life with someone, only to watch it crumble, can take a steep emotional and physical toll. Many people seeking legal advice concerning smart devices and divorce proceedings wonder if the evidence they are able to acquire is admissible in family court. Often, the answer is yes. Even in instances where the information gathered may not be used directly in court – such as with some recordings – they may still be used and considered by both legal counselors, any court-assigned therapists, or other family experts who may have a say in the court’s determinations. Smart Homes and Evidence Here are a few examples of how smart devices in the home can hurt (or help) a divorce case in Florida: Cheating Spouses If a spouse believes that their partner is cheating on them, a smart home may help them gather evidence to prove their case. A conversation between a cheating partner and another person, for example, may be picked up on a recording device. Or, perhaps they were caught on the home’s interior security cameras with someone else when they claimed they were... --- - Published: 2018-12-23 - Modified: 2020-07-31 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/best-ways-rebuild-credit-after-bankruptcy/ Bankruptcy doesn’t have to be a bad thing. Bankruptcy is your chance to break away from the burden of crushing debt and start your life anew. Fortunately, bankruptcy often comes with some lasting benefits such as improving a damaged credit score after filing. Here are three of the best ways to rebuild your credit after a bankruptcy. Get a Secured Credit Card Coming off a bankruptcy can be difficult. Especially when it comes to getting credit. Because of this, rebuilding your credit with a secured credit card may be a great option for you. Secured credit cards are credit cards which are – you guessed it – secured. What this means is that you make a deposit into a savings account, which is tied to the card and opens a secured line of credit. Secured credit cards work by giving the holder of the card a line of credit equal to the amount deposited, minus fees. This means that if you were making a $500 deposit on a card with a $30 annual fee, your available line of credit would be $470. By making timely monthly payments you can slowly rebuild your credit score with these cards. Just make sure that you always pay on time and try to use your card for small purchases. A good rule of thumb is to only use between 10 and 15 percent of your line of credit each month. Secured Loan Secured loans are another great option for those looking to rebuild their... --- - Published: 2018-12-17 - Modified: 2022-12-16 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/bankruptcy-and-court-fines-need-know/ Struggling with paying bills can be stressful. But if you are assessed with government fines your situation can get out of control quickly. Fortunately, for those in financial distress, there are ways to free yourself from debt. So, if you are struggling with debt and considering bankruptcy, here’s what you need to know about court fines and bankruptcy. Chapter 7 Bankruptcy and Fines Under Chapter 7 bankruptcy protection, fines which were assessed as penalties may not be discharged. These fines are generally issued as a punishment for disobeying the law and may include things such as traffic tickets or violations. Any fines which are sought as a form of reimbursement, however, may be discharged under a Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Fines which are sought as reimbursement are meant to offset the costs a governmental authority spent when dealing with an issue you were involved with. For example, say you accidentally ran into a government-owned vehicle and caused minor damage. You may be levied a fine to cover the costs of the damage the vehicle incurred. Since this is not a punishment, but rather a debt, this fine can be fully discharged in Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Chapter 13 Bankruptcy and Fines Unlike Chapter 7 bankruptcy, Chapter 13 bankruptcy protections allow for the discharge of fines which were assessed as a means of punishment. Chapter 13 bankruptcy protections also allow the discharge of punishment debts if the debt was the result of fraud. There are restrictions, however, on what types of punitive fines... --- - Published: 2018-12-10 - Modified: 2020-12-18 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/inherit-parents-debt-after-they-die/ When a parent dies, there are a host of issues their children are forced to deal with. First and foremost is the pain of the loss. Losing a loved one is never easy, and this is especially true when the loved ones are your parents. Beyond the emotional trauma, the death of a parent can leave a number of other issues that need close considerations – what happens to their property? Will the home be sold or will one of the children take over? What about a business? One issue that may not be considered though is debt. What happens to that? You inherit property and assets, so can you inherit your parent’s debt after their death? Debt and Death When a person dies, what happens to their existing debt? Often, many assume that the debt burden may be passed down to their children. Fortunately, this usually isn’t the case. In most instances, children do not have to foot the bill for their parents’ debts after death. They may, however, experience a much smaller inheritance should creditors go after the debt. This is because creditors are allowed to deplete a person’s estate, including assets set aside for inheritance, to help settle any debts which remain. Creditors generally have a window of between two to six months in which to make claims against a deceased person’s estate. And, if your parents did not have enough assets to cover the debt burden they left when they died, the remaining debt often dies... --- - Published: 2018-11-29 - Modified: 2021-03-12 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/what-to-know-about-rehabilitative-alimony-in-fl/ When going through a divorce, one of the parties may seek alimony payments to help them financially. As the realities of single life may be daunting – especially if one of the spouses was out of work as a homemaker or had never sought employment before, courts may elect to award rehabilitative alimony. But what is this form of alimony and how does it work? Here’s what you need to know about rehabilitative alimony in Florida divorces. What is “Rehabilitative Alimony? " Rehabilitative alimony is one type of alimony a court may award during divorce proceedings. According to State of Florida Statute 61. 08(6), rehabilitative alimony: “may be awarded to assist a party in establishing the capacity for self-support through either: 1.  The redevelopment of previous skills or credentials; or 2.  The acquisition of education, training, or work experience necessary to develop appropriate employment skills or credentials. (b) In order to award rehabilitative alimony, there must be a specific and defined rehabilitative plan which shall be included as a part of any order awarding rehabilitative alimony. (c) An award of rehabilitative alimony may be modified or terminated in accordance with s. 61. 14 based upon a substantial change in circumstances, upon noncompliance with the rehabilitative plan, or upon completion of the rehabilitative plan. ” Simply put, rehabilitative alimony is intended to provide the financial support one spouse needs until he or she can fully support themselves following a divorce. When Will a Court Award Rehabilitative Alimony? A court will not award a... --- - Published: 2018-11-14 - Modified: 2020-12-22 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/retroactive-child-support-fl/ When a judge orders a parent to pay child support, the other parent may petition for additional funds for the period after the break and before the first payment was made. This is known as retroactive child support. But, how does retroactive child support work in Florida? What is Retroactive Child Support? Retroactive child support is a form of child support available to account for the gap period when a parent becomes eligible to collect child support and when they are actually able to receive a court order mandating child support payments. A parent is eligible to collect retroactive child support from the period when they first stopped living with your partner, or two years, whichever is the shorter of the two. Usually, the parent who is seeking retroactive child support is not allowed to receive such payments for a period beyond the two-year period before the filing of the child support petition. Does Retroactive Child Support Affect Future Child Support? Retroactive child support is added in addition to regular child support payments. As such, receiving retroactive support payments does not limit or reduce any future child support payments which had been previously ordered by the court. If, however, the parent who is required by the court to pay child support becomes unable to make the required payments, or has a change of financial circumstances, they may petition the court to modify their child support obligations to either postpone them or reduce the amount owed. How Is Retroactive Child Support... --- - Published: 2018-11-07 - Modified: 2021-01-06 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/student-debt-bankruptcy/ No one plans to declare bankruptcy. But, as you move through life and expenses pile up, sometimes it becomes the best option. Traditionally with bankruptcy, student loans would not be included. However, with the right legal approach, you can not only get other debts forgiven, but also work on reducing or completely eliminating your student loan debts. So, what is the relationship between bankruptcy and student loans? Before declaring bankruptcy on student loans, let’s have a look. Declaring Bankruptcy on Student Loans When it comes to student loan debt, bankruptcy has not always been the recommended solution. In fact, it wasn’t until the last decade that lawyers really started to use bankruptcy for this purpose. This is because student loans were usually considered “non-dischargable,” which meant they could not be considered for bankruptcy filings. Fortunately, when attorneys started questioning this, a new option became available for those with student loans. Student Loan Debt Bankruptcy Looking at bankruptcy and student loans, the old way to consider whether they could be dismissed was to look at whether they caused “undue hardship. ” Since the court system established a very high bar for this definition, most lawyers never even tried to get loans forgiven or dismissed. Fortunately, there are some creative ways around this. When declaring bankruptcy on student loans, the first thing to consider is how much of the loans actually went to paying for college expenses. In many cases, student loans include extra money for the cost of living, food, transportation,... --- - Published: 2018-10-22 - Modified: 2021-02-05 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/bankruptcy-credit-ratings/ Filing for bankruptcy is a special decision. Bankruptcy may seem like your whole world is crashing down on top of you. But bankruptcy isn’t the entire weight of the world falling on you. Instead, it’s the weight of your debt burden being lifted from you and giving you a fresh start. That doesn’t mean bankruptcy isn’t without its drawbacks. How does bankruptcy affect credit ratings? Is Bankruptcy the Right Decision for You? While this may seem like a negative, it is crucial to remember that they also have the crushing burden of lifted. After all, if the individual was struggling with credit card debt, losing access to these burdens will allow them to learn to cope financially without them. One of the best ways to consider bankruptcy is facing reality, over living in denial. Try contemplating if you could repay your entire debt in two years, over 24 installments. If this sounds like an impossibility, would you rather lug around an unserviceable debt and take a continual hit on your credit score? Or would you rather accept that your finances need restricting, and save yourself the torture and burden of living in a nightmare of debt and not even being able to even pay off the monthly interest? Credit Score As noted above, filing for bankruptcy, both chapter 7 and 13, will hinder your credit score. But it does not mean that filing for bankruptcy is not in your best interest. Nor does it mean that filing for bankruptcy will... --- - Published: 2018-10-19 - Modified: 2021-03-25 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/florida-alimony-garnishment-law/ A lot of myths circulate about garnishments for alimony orders. Many people hear that only child support payments can be garnished from wages, but that is not the case. While it is true that a different amount of disposable income can be garnished for child support, and that since 1988, income withholding orders are automatically a part of child support orders, this does not mean that garnishment cannot be a valuable tool for alimony payment enforcement as well. And it is not only wages: for example, in Florida alimony garnishment case, City of Miami v. Spurrier, the court ruled that pensions could also be garnished for support, even when a statute was drafted in an attempt to prohibit such garnishments. Here’s our guide to Florida Alimony Garnishment laws. Alimony Garnishment Laws In Florida Florida law limits the amount that a creditor can take or seize or "garnish" from your wages to repay your debts. The Florida wage garnishment laws (also called wage attachments) generally follow the federal wage garnishment laws, but some exemptions are available in Florida which might limit a creditors rights to garnish your wages. For the most part, creditors with judgments can only take up to 25% of your wages and only if your wages meet a minimum threshold. However, for a few types of debts, creditors can take more. What Is a Wage Garnishment? A wage garnishment or wage attachment is an order from a court or a government agency that is sent to your employer.... --- - Published: 2018-10-11 - Modified: 2020-07-31 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/wrongful-foreclosure/ Having your home foreclosed upon by your mortgage lender is an experience no one ever wishes to have. But what happens if you think the lender foreclosed due to a mistake? Or even worse, due to negligence or fraudulent reasons. If this has happened to you, you may be the victim of wrongful foreclosure. But, what is a wrongful foreclosure, and what can be done to prevent one? What Is Wrongful Foreclosure? Wrongful foreclosures occur when a lender initiates a foreclosure process upon a homeowner when no legal cause exists. Wrongful foreclosures may also occur when a lender initiates a wrongful foreclosure process and then accepts partial payments from a homeowner to cease the foreclosure but instead continues on with the process. Causes of Wrongful Foreclosures Generally speaking, most wrongful foreclosures are the result of miscommunications between a borrower and a lender. Wrongful foreclosures are often initiated by lenders when they allege any one of a number of incidents has occurred. These incidents include, but are not limited to, the following: An incorrect adjustment to interest rates. Incorrect tax accounts. Misapplied payments. Breach of contract. A forbearance agreement to which the borrower did not adhere to. Infliction of emotional distress, either negligently or intentionally. \ Improper accounting. Unfair business practices. Impact of A Wrongful Foreclosure Regardless of why a wrongful foreclosure was initiated by a lender, their impacts can be catastrophic for borrowers. Wrongful foreclosures appear on a credit report as a foreclosure, meaning that a borrower’s credit score will... --- - Published: 2018-10-03 - Modified: 2020-07-31 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/keep-marital-settlement-agreement-concise/ Divorces can be messy. Often they are fraught with feelings of anger and ill-will. In these cases, settlements can drag out over weeks or months. There is, however, a better way. Here’s how to keep your Florida marital settlement agreement clear and concise. Keep Your Emotions in Check Perhaps the best way to keep a marital settlement agreement clear and concise is to control your own emotions. Sure, divorce can be an extremely difficult time mentally, but keeping your emotions in check is critical. If you are overtly emotional, your spouse and their lawyer have gained the upper-hand in negotiating, as they now understand what triggers you. Being not in control of emotions can also drag out proceedings, as well as make negotiations more hostile. Step Outside of Yourself One of the best things you can do to try and keep your marital settlement agreement clear and concise is to take a step outside of yourself and picture things from the other side’s point of view. Thinking about how your spouse may see circumstances is a great way to reach and understanding free of malice or ill-will. Once you can acknowledge any emotional triggers which may set off your partner, you will be better equipped to handle your negotiations. Often you may find that partners are less concerned about finances in a divorce and more about having their emotional needs met. Be Transparent with Information Transparency is crucial for any settlement to be reached amicably. It’s difficult to reach a... --- - Published: 2018-08-30 - Modified: 2020-07-31 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/keep-assets-chapter-13-bankruptcy-florida/ Deciding to file for bankruptcy is a difficult decision. With mounting debts, you may feel you have no other choice but to turn over your assets to creditors. Fortunately, there are options available for you to save your assets, including Chapter 13 bankruptcy. But, can I keep my luxury car, RV and boat in Chapter 13 bankruptcy? What Is Chapter 13 Bankruptcy? Chapter 13 bankruptcy is a procedure in which a debtor proposes a repayment plan to their creditors, offering to pay off all, or part of, their debts from their future income. The settling of these debts usually occurs over a period of three-to-five years. If the individual sticks to the terms of the agreed upon repayment plan, the remaining debts will be discharged after the end of the termination date of the agreement. Chapter 13 bankruptcy is often used to prevent foreclosure, to make up missed payments on a mortgage or automobile, to pay back taxes, or to prevent an accrual of interest on local, state or federal taxes. Qualifications for Chapter 13 Bankruptcy To qualify for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you must: Have a regular income. Your unsecured debt does not exceed $394,725, and any secured debt does not exceed $1,184,200. All tax filings are current and up to date. Have not filed for Chapter 13 in the previous two years. Have not filed for Chapter 7 in the last four years. Not have filed a bankruptcy petition - either Chapter 7 or 13 - in the previous... --- - Published: 2018-08-21 - Modified: 2026-02-24 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/prenup-and-bankruptcy/ A prenuptial agreement may seem like an ironclad way to protect your premarital assets after your wedding, allowing you and your spouse to predetermine who is responsible for what assets - and debts. But depending on your state's laws, a prenup may give you little or no protection if your spouse files bankruptcy. Keep reading if you’re wondering can my prenuptial agreement protect me from bankruptcy? Prenuptial Agreement A prenuptial agreement allows a couple planning to wed the opportunity to declare assets and liabilities held by each party individually before marriage. Each party lists his assets and indicates how these assets will be handled during the marriage and in the event of separation or divorce. While prenuptial agreements are often contracted to protect premarital property, they may also include language specifying individual responsibility for debts incurred before the marriage. One thing that you have to know is that a premarital agreement can’t be verbal. This means that you do have to go through the steps of writing the agreement out. Both you and your spouse have to sign the agreement. That signature, however, is only valid if you both have time to read over the agreement. You both have to have time to understand and consider the terms of the agreement. For that reason, you shouldn’t wait until the last minute to take care of the premarital agreement. A Complex Legal Issue A prenuptial agreement is intended to stand in a court of law as a couple's declaration of how... --- - Published: 2018-08-17 - Modified: 2026-02-25 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/reasons-survey-your-property-florida/ If you think you know everything about your property, think again. Having a professional survey conducted can give you a better picture of what your property has to offer. Here are five reasons to survey your property in Florida. What is a Survey? A survey, also known as a certified property boundary report, is a study conducted by a licensed surveyor which outlines and defines all the unique characteristics of land, as well as any improvements which have been made to it. To conduct a survey, the licensed surveyor may rely on a variety of property and county records, though these will not be the only tools they use to determine their results. Surveyors will also utilize Global Positioning Systems (GPS), Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) and Robotic Survey Systems (RSS) to reach their fully independent results. Property surveys generally reveal the following information to a buyer: Boundary lines for the land or lot in question. Notes on where any improvements are located on the property including the distance between each improvement and the property's boundaries. Disclosures on specific characteristics of the property, including utilities, easements, boundaries, and encroachments. Reasons to Have a Survey Conducted Boundary Lines Determining boundary lines is one of the most common reasons a landowner decides to have a survey conducted. Knowing exactly where boundary lines are located is crucial information before constructing a fence, in addition to a home, or pave a driveway. Should property disputes arise in the future, a professional survey is admissible evidence... --- - Published: 2018-08-10 - Modified: 2026-01-08 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/divorce-over-the-age-of-50-what-to-know/ Getting divorced is never easy. Building a life with someone, only to watch it crumble, can take a steep emotional and physical toll. This is especially true if you divorce later in life. But, what other considerations are there? If you are considering divorce over the age of 50, here’s what you need to know. Impact on Children You may think that getting divorced later in life would be easier for your children, but that isn’t always the case. This is especially true for older children who have moved out of the house, as they may struggle to adapt to a situation so out of the norm. Such was the case Gail Konop, whose older children struggled with the changes. At one point, Konop notes that her older daughter exclaimed: “I don’t want to come home anymore — it’s so weird. ” Simply put, don’t think that waiting to divorce later will mean less stress for your children. Employment For many older adults, especially those who have been out of the workforce for some time – like home-makers – divorce over the age of 50 can be a frightening proposition. In some instances, those individuals may seek to go back to school to obtain a degree, in order to enhance their employment opportunities in the future. If this is the case in your divorce, consider the cost of obtaining a degree and the future earning potentials associated with it. Then, use this information in the divorce settlement negotiations. You may... --- - Published: 2018-07-23 - Modified: 2026-02-24 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/property-with-code-violations/ Most homeowners are blissfully unaware as to whether or not the home is technically up to code. This is especially true for those who own older homes and for those who have done major renovations. If you’re living somewhere without any intention of selling it, code violations may not matter, so long as your home is safe. When it comes to buying or selling a property with code violations, there are some things you need to know. Residential home and building codes exist throughout the US and are aimed at protecting people’s health and well-being. Building codes cover everything from how your plumbing is set up to the type of insulation packed in your walls. This is particularly true for homes under construction, which will receive multiple inspections during the course of their development and prior to anyone legally being able to reside in them. The strictness of building codes varies by city. Their specifics, however, are generally available at your local town/city/village hall. Is Your Home Up To Code? New homes must be built up-to-code and undergo a number of inspections along the way. This includes passing a final inspection by the city and obtaining a certificate of occupancy. Code-compliance often times goes awry after people move in. They will complete renovations and make changes to their homes without getting the necessary permits or inspections, and the result is a home that becomes a liability to potential purchasers. Like we mentioned, minor code violations may not matter to those... --- - Published: 2018-07-17 - Modified: 2026-01-08 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/first-time-home-buyers-in-florida/ Purchasing your first home is both exciting and frightening. With so much to do, however, the process can be overwhelming. Fortunately, the Law Offices of Patrick L. Cordero are here to provide advice on home purchase aspects you shouldn’t overlook. Here are some helpful tips for first time home buyers in Florida. Know Your Finances One of the most critical things to consider when it comes to purchasing your first home in Florida is the price. Sitting down and determining what exactly you can afford is the best way to begin any search for first time home buyers. When considering how much you can afford, there are several factors to take into account. Down Payment Generally, people commonly put 20-percent of the home’s price as a down payment. While many lenders will accept much lower than 20-percent – in fact some require as little as 3-percent down – it is advisable to place a minimum of 20-percent down. Why? Placing a higher down payment means reduced costs down the road, meaning you give yourself more financial wiggle-room should any issues arise. Credit Score Knowing your credit score is as important as a down payment – if not more! Having poor credit may disqualify you from certain (or all) mortgage options. Having great credit also means that you are a more trusted borrower, meaning you will be offered much lower interest rates by lenders. Know the Property Just as important a knowing your finances is knowing the property you wish to... --- - Published: 2018-07-10 - Modified: 2021-09-27 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/miami-dade-bankruptcy-court/ Although people may have heard of the United States bankruptcy courts, there are many who are not aware of what it actually is. The United States bankruptcy courts are components of district courts that have the authority to hear cases specifically about bankruptcy cases. To learn more about it, read on for seven fast facts about your local Miami-Dade Bankruptcy Court. 1) It is located in downtown Miami. The Miami-Dade Bankruptcy Court is situated right next to Miami-Dade College Wolfson Campus in downtown Miami. The court’s exact address is 301 North Miami Ave Room 150, Miami, FL 33128. 2) There are entrance requirements. When you go to the Miami-Dade Bankruptcy court, it is mandatory that you provide a current, valid, government-issued form of identification, such as a driver’s license, state identification card, passport, or immigration card, as well as pass through courthouse security. You are also not allowed to bring cell phones, recording devices, cameras, or various kinds of electronic devices. However, the court has the power to grant someone permission to bring in an electronic device with a written order by a judge that is verified by the United States Marshal Service. 3) The court is closed on major national holidays. If you run into an issue on any of the following holidays and need to visit the Miami-Dade bankruptcy court, you will have to wait until it reopens after: New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Day, President’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Veteran’s Day,... --- - Published: 2018-07-02 - Modified: 2020-07-31 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/how-determine-primary-residence/ Establishing a primary residence is important, especially when it comes to financial matters. The IRS offers tax breaks on the sale of homes to the tune of the first $500,000 for married couples, or $250,000 for individuals. The catch? The home in question must be the primary residence. In the same vein, having an established primary residence can help you save the home during bankruptcy proceedings. Regardless of the reason, establishing a primary residence is a great financial idea. Here is our helpful guide on how to determine your primary residence. What is a Principal Residence? The Internal Revenue Service does not have a specific definition as to what a principal residence exactly is. However, a principal residence can simply be defined as the place where an individual or their family spends the majority of their time. Establishing a property as your principal residence means you must spend the bulk of your time there, whether the dwelling is owned or rented. Ownership itself does not make a property a principal residence. Proving a Property is Your Primary Residence If you only own one home and have lived in it for many years, obviously proving that it is your primary residence will be no problem at all. However, if you have several residences where you live throughout the year, proving which one is your main residence may be a little trickier. The IRS, as well as the courts, generally will consider several things when attempting to determine an individual or family’s... --- - Published: 2018-06-28 - Modified: 2020-12-11 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/contested-divorce-florida/ Getting divorced is never easy. Building a life with someone, only to watch it crumble, can take a steep emotional and physical toll. This is especially true if your divorce proceedings aren’t entirely amicable. When spouses cannot agree on the terms of their separation, it is known as a “contested divorce. ” Often, these divorces can be extremely stressful or tense. But, what does it mean to have a contested divorce in Florida? What is a Contested Divorce? A contested divorce is the most difficult of all divorce proceedings. Simply put, it involves a situation where both parties fail to agree on one, or many, separate issues. Contested divorces vary significantly from uncontested divorces because in an uncontested divorce both parties have reached an amicable agreement on all issues relating to the end of their marriage and separation of their assets, as well as child custody arrangements. Contested divorces don’t necessarily mean that the two parties involved in the divorce disagree on every aspect of their separation, nor does it imply any negative feelings. Rather, it may simply mean they do not see eye-to-eye on any number of issues, which must be mediated. The Contested Divorce Procedure Unlike uncontested divorces, which are straightforward, contested divorces require spouses to go through a number of steps to reach finalization of their divorce. Often, these steps are fraught with greater stress and legal costs. The procedure for a contested divorce usually follows the following pattern, although exact proceedings vary depending upon the individual... --- - Published: 2018-06-10 - Modified: 2020-07-31 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/should-you-file-for-bankruptcy/ If you are having trouble paying your bills, it may be a good idea to consider filing for bankruptcy. While it should be a last resort after you have exhausted all other options, it can either reduce your debt or make it easier to repay what you currently owe. Here’s the ultimate guide to whether or not you should file for bankruptcy. What Are My Options When Filing For Bankruptcy? If you have few assets, a poor credit score, and mostly unsecured debt, it may be a good idea to file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. This is called a liquidation bankruptcy because your assets are liquidated and the proceeds are given to your creditors. However, if you don’t have any assets, you don’t owe anything to creditors. Assets such as equity in a home or a vehicle needed to get to work may be exempted in your case. If you have mostly secured debt, decent credit, and assets that you want to protect, Chapter 13 bankruptcy may be best for you. In a Chapter 13 case, your debts are reorganized and repaid over a period of three or five years. During the repayment period, creditors cannot move to foreclose on a home or repossess your car. What About Business Debts? Business debts are generally discharged through Chapter 7 bankruptcy or through Chapter 11 if your company is a corporation. In a Chapter 11 case, you work with your creditors to create a custom plan to repay existing debts. It may... --- - Published: 2018-06-02 - Modified: 2020-07-31 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/career-after-bankruptcy/ Bankruptcy offers a second chance. A second chance at getting your financial house in order and a second chance at leading a good life. Here’s what to expect starting a new career after bankruptcy. Although your employer may sometimes find out about your bankruptcy filing, in most cases you don’t have to worry, it won’t usually affect your employment. It won’t, in other words, get you fired. But, unfortunately, a past bankruptcy could come into play in the future if ever you try and apply to another job. Bankruptcies And Getting Fired In practice, employers rarely find out about a Chapter 7 bankruptcy filing. However, if a creditor has sued you, obtained a judgment, and started garnishing your wages, your employer will get the news, because to stop the garnishment, your employer must know about the bankruptcy (you or your attorney will notify the employer). However, since your employer (or at least the payroll department) already knew you were under economic stress, it’s likely they’ll welcome the bankruptcy as a way for you to take steps to put your financial problems behind you. Usually, if you file for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, your employer will find out. If you have a regular job with regular income, the bankruptcy judge may order your Chapter 13 payments to be automatically deducted from your wages and sent to the bankruptcy court. (This is called an “income deduction order. ”) In effect, your employer will be pressed into service as a sort of collection agency, to... --- - Published: 2018-05-22 - Modified: 2020-07-31 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/debt-collections-can-cost-you/ Getting a call from collections is never fun. This is true even in the best case scenario (i. e. when it’s your account and you have the money to pay) because outstanding accounts can be a hassle, and honestly, who likes to see that kind of money draining suddenly from their account? If, on the other hand, the debt is contention, it’s not yours, or just too high to afford, the situation can start to feel a whole lot direr. What you don’t know about debt collections can cost you. Understand Why A Collections Agency Is Calling You A collection agency will take control of your account when one, they buy the debt or two, they are hired by the bank/entity who owns the debt to collect on their behalf. During the first 3 to 6 months, banks and credit card companies typically make the collections calls themselves. However, after 180 days of collection activity, the bank “writes off” the debt. It is at this point that most major banks will hire a collection agency to collect the debt. Afterward, banks basically sell the debt at a reduced priced to a collections agency that specializes in this sort of thing. When banks sell the debt, they wipe their hands of the relationship. The business model of a collections agency is to collect more from you than they pay for the debt. Know Your Rights While it’s true that debt collectors have the right to collect on a debt if in... --- - Published: 2018-04-27 - Modified: 2020-12-25 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/guide-to-real-estate-terms/ Real estate language, foreclosures, and bankruptcy-related legalities can all get a bit confusing. But you don’t need a law degree to understand, at least, the basics. Doing so will both help you better understand what you’re getting yourself into, and give you peace of mind. Here’s our take on hard money, hardest hit, and more: your guide to real estate, foreclosure, and bankruptcy terms. Real Estate Terms Buyer’s Agent vs. Listing Agent: There are usually two agents involved when you buy a home: the “buyer’s agent,” who represents you, and the “listing agent,” who represents the home seller. Dual agency is when there is only one agent representing both sides of the transaction, which is something you want to avoid at all costs! CMA: People love acronyms, and “CMA” is no exception: it stands for “Comparative Market Analysis” (sometimes these are also referred to as ‘comps’) and is a report of similar homes in the area that were recently sold or are currently on the market. This is used to help determine an accurate value for your home. Fixed Rate vs. Adjustable Rate Mortgages: Conventional loans include “fixed rate” and “adjustable rate” mortgages. A fixed rate mortgage has a predetermined interest rate throughout the life of the loan; the most common are for 30 years. An adjustable rate mortgage has a variable interest rate; the most common are for 5, 7, or 10 years. Hard Money Loan: A hard money loan is a specific type of asset-based loan financing through... --- - Published: 2018-04-17 - Modified: 2020-07-31 - URL: https://attorneycordero.com/blog/the-latest-creditor-harassment-laws/ Debt is a double-edged sword. While some debt is good, too much can become an incredibly heavy financial burden. Here’s our guide to the latest creditor harassment laws and how to stop their calls. Address The Issue Before It Becomes A Problem First things first, if you have a credit or debt issue you should always try and address it quickly and before it becomes a problem. If you’re able to pay the bill and are simply avoiding the payment because you’re busy or for some reason don’t feel like making the call, you should stop your procrastinating and call immediately. Putting off paying your bills can result in more fees and or interest payments than you would have had to of paid otherwise. If, on the other hand, you’re avoiding creditors because you don’t currently have the money to pay them back it is important that you don't ignore the issue and hope it goes away because, trust us, it won't. In order to avoid having the debt turned over to a collection agency, you should call your creditor and explain that you are unable to pay the bill (and hiring a collection agency won't help you pay sooner) and tell them when you expect to be able to pay. Hopefully, you will be able to come to a compromise or produce a repayment plan. You’ll be surprised how reasonable people and companies can be if you just stay in touch and show that you’re making an effort. If... --- ---