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Firm Overview

Orlando, Florida, Bankruptcy Law Office
We provide Florida residents with effective legal representation in bankruptcy matters, including Chapter 7, Chapter 13, debt restructuring and reorganization, repossessions, foreclosures, judgments and tax debts. We serve individuals and businesses seeking relief from their debts and wanting to have a fresh start. If you're contemplating filing for bankruptcy and need representation from an efficient, dedicated attorney, contact Anderson & Ferrin Attorneys at Law, P.A. to schedule an initial consultation.

Over the years, we've represented clients unable to pay off their creditors for various reasons, including:

Credit card debts - clients unable to pay off their huge credit card debts due to overspending or high interest rates.
Medical bills - clients unable to pay bills because they were living day-to-day and incurred unaffordable expenses for unforeseen illnesses or accidents.
Job loss - clients who lost their income and suddenly couldn't pay their bills.
Divorce - households used to living with two incomes suddenly find themselves struggling to make ends meet when divorce forces them to make do with just one income source
Loss of money due to bad investments - clients who invest heavily in businesses and find themselves unable to make payments when their investments fail to generate their projected income

In all these cases, our clients were victims of unforeseen circumstances, or simply failed to plan ahead. At Anderson & Ferrin Attorneys at Law, P.A. we are known for being client-focused and for coming up with effective solutions to our clients' problems.
Contact Anderson & Ferrin Attorneys at Law, P.A. to schedule an initial consultation.

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Attorneys Profile

Victoria Lyn Anderson primarily practices in the areas of domestic and family law, criminal law, and bankruptcy. Ms. Anderson's experience in these areas of law has given her a unique ability to not only achieve results but to assist clients though difficult, complicated and sometimes incredibly emotional events.

Ms. Anderson has been a resident of central Florida for over 25 years. She received her Bachelors in Political Science from the University of Central Florida and a Juris Doctorate from Barry University School of Law. At Barry University Ms. Anderson received a certificate for completing a concentration in the areas of Children and Family law which has provided her the opportunity to explore these areas intricately and gain an even greater knowledge and understanding which she uses to assist her client's through these difficult times.

Ms. Anderson has worked in the legal field for over 15 years at all levels within private law firms from a secretary to a paralegal and from an associate to a partner. Ms. Anderson's background has helped her develop a high level of expertise that is conducive to achieving results.

Ms. Anderson is involved in the following organizations and affiliations: US Bankruptcy Court Middle District of Florida, The Florida Bar (Family, Criminal and Young Lawyers Division), American Bar Association and Orange County Bar Association. Additionally, Ms. Anderson is an adjunct professor for Barry University, Kaplan University and Everest University.

Victoria Lyn Anderson's Avvo Answers and Legal Guidelines

Michael Ferrin practices in the areas of domestic and family law, criminal law, and bankruptcy. Mr. Ferrin's experience has given him a unique ability to understand the difficulties one can face when confronted with the issues involved in these areas. Mr. Ferrin prides himself on treating each client as if they were family and making sure that as a client you are well informed and receive the highest level of representation.

Mr. Ferrin has been a resident of Florida for over 25 years. He was born in New Orleans and raised in Key West Florida. He received his bachelors in Business Administration from the University of Florida and his law degree from Barry University School of Law.

Mr. Ferrin has always had the desire to help individuals which is why he has always worked in private practice. On his path to helping individuals Mr. Ferrin had the opportunity to work for one of Central Florida's largest private bankruptcy firms. While doing so he was able to represent over 2,000 individuals and small businesses in their bankruptcies some of which had debts exceeding twenty million dollars, $20,000,000.

Mr. Ferrin is involved in the following organizations and affiliations: US Bankruptcy Court Middle District of Florida, The Florida Bar, American Bar Association, The Central Florida Bankruptcy Lawyers Association, and the Orange County Bar Association.

Additionally, Mr. Ferrin is an adjunct professor for Everest University. Mr. Ferrin is dedicated to helping the community and accepts several pro bono cases from Orange County each year.

Michael Ferrin's Avvo Answers and Legal Guidelines

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Areas of Practice

Focusing on Bankruptcy Law, Anderson & Ferrin Attorneys at Law, P.A provide Florida residents with cost-effective representation in matters related to chapter 7, chapter 13, debt restructuring, repossessions, foreclosures, judgments and tax debts. We give clients our personal attention and seek timely resolutions for our clients' legal problems.

  • Chapter 7
  • We help clients who are unable to pay off their debts file for a Chapter 7 bankruptcy. This section of the Bankruptcy Code is best suited for clients with few assets and unsecured debts. A Chapter 7 bankruptcy is ideal for clients who wish to have a fresh start in life.

    Individuals can often find themselves in positions where debts far exceed their income. This problem can occur regardless of how much money one has or how much one prepares for the worst. Individuals looking to file chapter 7 often have been faced with a loss in employment, a loved one passing away, losses on investments or businesses, or divorce. Chapter 7 bankruptcy can assist you by putting your debts behind you and create a fresh start for you and your family. Chapter 7 can assist you with discharge of most debts including but not limited to:

    • Foreclosures
    • Repossessions
    • Judgments resulting from creditor suits or personal injury claims
    • Credit card debt
    • Personal loans
    • Some older tax debts

    Every person's case is unique and results are subject to certain limitations and exemptions which we will explain to you in detail at your FREE CONSULTATION.

    At Anderson & Ferrin Attorneys at Law, P.A. we have helped clients file petitions for Chapter 7 bankruptcies for years. We take time to advise our clients about the necessary steps that are included in a Chapter 7 bankruptcy, such as qualifying through a Chapter 7 means test, receiving a credit counseling briefing, filing a voluntary petition and attending a creditor's meeting.


    If you believe you may be candidate for filing a chapter 7 or any other type of bankruptcy we invite you to call us and set up a FREE CONSULTATION to discuss your particular issues and goals.

  • Chapter 13
  • We provide clients with legal assistance and advice regarding reorganization bankruptcy. A Chapter 13 bankruptcy is ideal for clients who are facing foreclosure and repossession. It is also useful for those who have incurred short-term debts, which they can eventually pay off in time. We assist clients in filing for a Chapter 13 bankruptcy and creating a repayment plan that will best suit their needs.

    In 2005 the requirements to file bankruptcy changed and law makers developed what is called the "Means Test". This new test means that you can no longer just file a Chapter 7 if you need to, now you have to qualify for it. This in turn makes it difficult for some people to file Chapter 7 and therefore need to file another type of bankruptcy called Chapter 13.

    Chapter 13 bankruptcy is known as a debt reorganization bankruptcy and is designed for individuals that are overwhelmed with their debts but with some restructuring could afford to pay some of their debts back over time. This type of bankruptcy is not worse or better than other types it's just different and provides the individual filing with different tools at their disposal to handle their particular needs.

    In most cases Chapter 13 allows you to take control of your debts and structure a monthly payment that you and your family can afford while in most cases discharging the majority of your debts. In some cases Chapter 13 can help you save your home by stopping foreclosure and helping you catch up on your mortgage. In some cases, if your homestead property is worth less than what you owe on your first mortgage we can use the tools available to you in Chapter 13 to strip any subsequent mortgages such as an equity line or second mortgage.

    In Chapter 13 you can also attempt to modify your mortgage on your primary or homestead property if you qualify for the HAMP program or one of your lenders in-house modification programs. The bankruptcy division here in Orlando is one of very few places where modifying your mortgage in a bankruptcy is available to you. With the tools provided in Chapter 13 we can ask that the mortgage company to appear at a mediation in an attempt to negotiate the terms of your mortgage to make your home more affordable. It can often be done in a fraction of the time as a conventional modification outside of bankruptcy.

    If you would like more information on how a Chapter 13 or any other bankruptcy could help you we invite you to give us a call and come in for a FREE CONSULTATION to discuss your options.

  • Warning Signs of Financial Crisis
  • Financial crisis can often blind side individuals. No matter how much money you may have or how much you prepare and plan for your future, unexpected events can occur that can turn your life upside down. Below we have compiled just some warning signs that you may be facing a financial crisis.

    • You are using your credit cards every month to cover necessary living expenses.
    • Your credit card debt continues to rise every month and you just can’t seem to make a dent on the balances
    • Interest rates on your credit cards are reaching 20-29% interest and you just can’t keep up
    • Creditors are calling you day and night and you are afraid to open your mail or answer your door in fear that you may receive a lawsuit or yet another bill.
    • You haven’t been able to make your mortgage payments and your house is on the verge of foreclosure
    • You continue to dip into your savings just to make ends meet slowly dwindling your nest egg and leaving little to nothing for you to retire with or heck even get away for a vacation
    • You owe much more on your home than you think it will ever be worth again and wonder why your are dumping your money into something with no value

    Of course there are many other warning signs that you may be noticing in your life. Make sure that you are not ignoring them and make the decision to come and speak with us to discuss your options. You may be surprised with some of the results a bankruptcy could provide you. We invite you to contact us and set up a free consultation.

  • Foreclosure
  • What is Foreclosure?

    Foreclosureis the legal process by which a lender repossesses or takes ownership of a property. A foreclosure normally occurs after an individual has become delinquent on their mortgage payments and default s on their mortgage. Once an individual defaults, the lender is able to file a foreclosure in an attempt to clear the properties title and allow the lender to receive clear marketable title to the property. On average a foreclosure can take several months if not years and once served it is important for individuals to retain counsel as soon as possible to make sure that your rights are protected.

    Foreclosure defense is a service that we can provide which allows you to be represented against your lender and protect your rights in the foreclosure process. Often times if you are able to retain an attorney early in the process agreements can be reached with the lender that may allow you to modify your mortgage, refinance your mortgage, and work with the lender to move forward with a deed in lieu of foreclosure, or obtain a short sale prior to the foreclosure completing. There are also other options such as chapter 7 or chapter 13 bankruptcy that can be used in conjunction with foreclosure defense to achieve your goals in either getting out from under the debt or saving the home.

    Consequences of Foreclosure

    Often times foreclosures result in significant amounts still being owed to the lender even after the property has been sold at foreclosure. Due to the economic downturn and the slump in real estate values many homes are significantly upside down or underwater as to the value vs. what is owed on the property. This is difference in what the home was sold for at foreclosure auction and what is owed on the property is called a deficiency and the bank can seek payment for these amounts even though you are no longer in possession of the home. These deficiencies can be significant and can cause significant financial problems for individuals facing them. Not only can you continue to owe money to the bank but your credit will be negatively impacted by the foreclosure which can cause you to have poor credit for many years.

    It is important when facing a foreclosure to hire an attorney early on in the process to protect your rights and help you and your family get through what can sometimes be one of the most difficult times in ones’ life. At Anderson and Ferrin we can help you achieve your goals and help you and your family get through foreclosure and other financial distress. Let us help you. Please contact our Orlando office at 407-412-7041 for a free consultation. You may be surprised with some of the options that may be available to you.

  • Lawsuits
  • If you are being sued by creditors and collectors, filing bankruptcy may put a stop or completely end the lawsuit. When a bankruptcy is filed, an automatic stay is automatic put into effect preventing creditors and collectors from proceeding with lawsuits to collect debts, garnishments, or repossessions.

    The bankruptcy’s automatic stay is much like a restraining order by the court that stops creditors from attempting to collect debt. Phone calls and visits would be halted and garnishments stopped. The automatic stay is usually in effect through the bankruptcy process until you receive your discharge of your debts at the end of the case.

    Filing for bankruptcy is a powerful tool that can help provide relief from many types of lawsuits. Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 Bankruptcy provide different kinds of relief from debt. Which case you need to file depends on your specific situation and goals.

    If you or someone you know is facing a lawsuit, garnishment, or repossession call us now to speak directly with an attorney and set up a free consultation.

  • Short Sales
  • A short sale is a sale of real estate in which the proceeds from selling the property will fall short of the balance of debts secured by liens against the property and the property owner cannot afford to repay the liens' full amounts, whereby the lien holders agree to release their lien on the real estate and accept less than the amount owed on the debt. Any unpaid balance owed to the creditors is known as a deficiency. Short sale agreements do not necessarily release borrowers from their obligations to repay any deficiencies of the loans, unless specifically agreed to between the parties.

    A short sale is often used as an alternative to foreclosure because it mitigates additional fees and costs to both the creditor and borrower; however both will often result in a negative credit report against the property owner.

  • Loan Modification
  • Several events many times unexpected can cause individuals to fall behind on their mortgage payments. This can cause significant stress to partners and loved ones and unfortunely can sometimes lead to the loss of someones home. When you foresee yourself having problems making your mortgage payments in the future or are already delinquent it is important to contact an experienced attorney to assist you and your family in designing a plan to resolve your financial problems. The sooner your contact us the more we may be able to help you as often times many things can be avoided through early planning and skillful tactics.

    What is Mortgage Modification?

    A Mortgage Modification also referred to as loan modification is the process of modifying your existing loan to make your payments more affordable. The purpose of a loan modification is to provide you with a mortgage payment you can afford. It's similar to mortgage refinance but instead of looking for a new loan, a modification changes you’re the terms of your current loan to fit your budget. Mortgage modification is just one option that may be available to you. Loan modifications do not necessarily provide you with a better deal on your home but work to make your monthly payments more affordable so that you are able to keep your home and avoid foreclosure or bankruptcy.

    At Anderson & Ferrin Attorneys at Law, P.A. we can assist you with the loan modification process and help you achieve your goals of obtaining a successful loan modification.

    Advantages of Mortgage Modification

    Mortgage modification will help you especially in times of financial distress. Some benefits of mortgage modification include:

    • Prevent foreclosure
    • Reduce your interest rate
    • Reduce your monthly payments.
    • Request extension on past due payments
    • Reduce your principle.
    • Eliminate adjustable rates / negotiate for a fixed rate.
    • Re-amortize loan to include past due payments
    • Waive negatively accrued interest
    • Why Use A Loan Modification Attorney?

      The loan modification process can be complex and daunting at times. Lenders request a significant amount of information and several documents in order to evaluate your loan modification options. Not only do lenders request several things but you are also dealing with very large companies which often times allege that they have not received your documents, that they were not received on time, or that your paperwork was filled out incorrectly. This can lead to the modification process lasting much longer than it should and sometimes causing you to lose out on the modification all together. Also, remember that many times individuals are also already behind on their mortgage payments when attempting a loan modification which means that every month that goes by without a loan modification is one more month that you are closer to a foreclosure being filed or losing your home all together. At Anderson & Ferrin Attorneys at Law, P.A. we will carefully analyze & review your case to ensure that the proper techniques are used to request your loan modification. We will diligently work on your file to make sure that all deadline are met and that your modification moves forward as smoothly as possible.

      Why choose us?

    • We prepare necessary documentation for loan modification approval by your lender.
    • We will negotiate the terms on your behalf leveraging current laws that protect you.
    • Diligently work on your case to allow it to move quickly and hopefully obtain positive results.
    • We may be able to help prevent foreclosure during the modification process.
    • How to get started

      The first step is to contact us for a free case review. Call us Today! 407-412-7041
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Faq

Do I need to be behind on my debts in order to file bankruptcy?
NO. You can be current or behind and still be able to file bankruptcy. There is no requirement to be behind on your debts in order to be able to file for bankruptcy.

If I file for bankruptcy will my credit be ruined for the rest of my life?
NO. Once your bankruptcy is complete your credit will begin to recuperate. Most individuals are able to buy cars at normal interest rates shortly after their cases close.

Can I go to jail for not paying my debts?
No. You cannot go to jail or prison for not paying your debts. What can happen is your creditors can sue you and once they receive a judgment they can garnish your wages, freeze accounts, place liens on your property, and seize assets.

A friend of mine told me that prior to filing bankruptcy I should transfer my stuff into someone else's name to protect my stuff. Should I do that?
NO, you should not transfer property to anyone prior to bankruptcy for the sole purpose of "protecting" assets and keeping them from your creditors. When you file for bankruptcy, the law provides you certain exemptions or protections that allow you to keep certain amounts of assets. Most individuals that file are able to keep the majority of their possessions while still discharging their debt. These exemptions are different for every state and vary in amount depending on how many people are filing and whether or not you wish to keep any real property.

Can I keep my house in a bankruptcy?
The majority of the time individuals are able to keep their primary residence while still discharging the rest of their debts. It all depends on how long you have lived in Florida, when the home was purchased, and what your home is worth. Every case is different and I would suggest setting an appointment for a free consultation to discuss your specific options.

If my homestead is paid in full will I lose it if I file bankruptcy?
In most cases your homestead property is protected in bankruptcy. Again, you should set an appointment to see how your particular home will be affected by filing a bankruptcy.

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Interesting Facts

  • The credit card industry makes over $30 billion in profits each year.
  • Over 80% of divorces are caused by money problems.
  • The average American carries 11 credit cards in his or her wallet.
  • The average credit card balance is $8,000.
  • Credit card issuers can increase your interest rate anytime, for any reason.
  • Almost 50% of credit card issuers use "universal default". This occurs when you are late with a payment, your creditor increases your interest rate to it's "default" rate, and your other credit cards do the same because you are now a "credit risk".
  • People who pay their credit card balances in full every month are considered "deadbeats" by the credit card industry, as they provide very little profit.
  • There are over 1 billion credit cards in circulation today.
  • Americans have increased their credit card debt by more than $600 billion in the past 25 years.
  • In 2006 the Commerce Department reported that each month Americans spend 1% more than they earn.

Resources

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Contact us

Committed Florida Bankruptcy Lawyers
Focusing on bankruptcy law, Anderson & Ferrin Attorneys at Law, P.A provide Florida residents with cost-effective representation in matters related to chapter 7, chapter 13, debt restructuring, repossessions, foreclosures, judgments and tax debts. We give clients our personal attention and seek timely resolutions for our clients' legal problems.

Availability
We are open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Later hours and weekends are available by appointment. For a compassionate, dedicated lawyer with experience in chapter 7 and chapter 13 bankruptcies, call Anderson & Ferrin Attorneys at Law, P.A.

Anderson & Ferrin, P.A
1115 E. Livingston St, Orlando, FL 32803
P : 407-412-7041
F : 407-802-2283


Please fill below form to contact us:
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Awards & Recognition

Victoria Lynn Anderson

Michael Ferrin

2013 AVVO Attorney award

2013

Michael Ferrin achieves the 2013 AVVO Attorney award.

2013 Client Distinction Award

2013

Michael Ferrin, Esq. receives the 2013 Client Distinction Award.

Toys for tots drive

September 2012

Anderson & Ferrin participate in Toys for tots drive. We participate in it annually and donate toys.

Girl Scouts of Central Florida for 2012

October 2012

Victoria was nominated as a woman of distinction by the Girl Scouts of Central Florida for 2012.

100% Club Award

October 2012

Our firm is the recipient of the 100% Club Award from the Orange County Legal Aid Society as 100% of our firm participates in legal aid by taking qualifying cases pro-bono.

New Attorney Award of Excellence

October 2012

Victoria was the recipient of the Legal Aid Society's "New Attorney Award of Excellence" for 2012.

Publications

Speaking Engagements

Conference Name Title Date
NBI Top 8 Complications in Bankruptcy 2015
NBI Financial Divorce Settlements From Start to Finish 2015
Halfmoon Education Inc Family Law Workshop for Paralegals 2015
National Business Institute Top Estate Planning Techniques 2014

Victoria Anderson Awards

Award Name Grantor Date
10 Best Attorneys for Florida American Institute of Family Law Attorneys 2016
Client choice award - family AVVO 2014
New Attorney Award of Excellence Legal Aid Society of Orange County, FL 2012

Michael Ferrin Awards

Award Name Grantor Date
2015 10 Best American Institute of Family Law Attorneys 2015
Clients Choice Award AVVO 2014
Young Lawyer Pro Bono Award of Excellence Orange County Bar Association 2013
Preeminent 4.9 out of 5 Martindale-Hubbell 2013
2013 Attorney Award AVVO 2013
Pro Bono Award for 2012 Orange County Legal Aid Society 2012

Associations

Association Position Duration
Boys Town of Central Florida - Victoria Anderson Board of Directors 2016 - Present
Seminole County Bar Association Member 2009 - Present
Orange County Bar Association Member 2009 - Present
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