SRQ Magazine Elite Top Attorney 2024

Sarasota · Bradenton · Charlotte County

A Fresh Start
Begins Here.

Attorney Sherri L. Johnson provides discreet, compassionate bankruptcy counsel — personally guiding each client through Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 from start to finish.

Schedule Free Consultation (941) 926-1155
Free Consultation
Payment Plans Available
Personal Attorney Attention
Office, Phone & Video Options

Why Clients Choose Us

The Counsel You Deserve When It Matters Most

Financial hardship is stressful enough. We make the legal path forward clear, manageable, and dignified.

Personal Attention

Attorney Sherri Johnson personally handles every case from initial consultation through the Meeting of Creditors — no handoffs to paralegals.

Elite Recognition

Named an Elite Top Attorney by SRQ Magazine in August 2024 — a distinction earned through demonstrated excellence in bankruptcy law.

Flexible Payment Plans

We understand financial pressure. That's why we offer payment plans so quality legal representation is accessible when you need it most.

Compassionate Counsel

We approach each case with empathy and discretion, creating a judgment-free environment where you can discuss your situation openly.

Convenient Consultations

Meet in-office, by phone, or via video — whatever is most convenient for you. We adapt to your schedule and comfort level.

Local Community Focus

Deep roots in Sarasota, Bradenton, Venice, North Port, and Port Charlotte — we know the local courts and are invested in our community's well-being.

Our Practice Areas

Bankruptcy Solutions Tailored to Your Needs

Two powerful pathways to financial relief — we help you understand which option is right for your unique circumstances.

7
Liquidation

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy

The fastest path to a clean slate. Chapter 7 allows qualifying individuals to discharge most unsecured debts — credit cards, medical bills, personal loans — typically within a few months, giving you the fresh start you need.

  • Discharge most unsecured debts
  • Immediate automatic stay on collections
  • Generally completed in 3–6 months
  • Florida exemptions protect your assets
Learn if you qualify
13
Reorganization

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy

Keep your property while restructuring your debt into an affordable 3–5 year repayment plan. Chapter 13 is powerful for those who want to save their home, catch up on mortgage arrears, or have income that exceeds Chapter 7 limits.

  • Stop foreclosure and save your home
  • Structured 3–5 year repayment plan
  • Protect vehicles and other property
  • Available to those with regular income
Explore your options
Sherri Johnson named Elite Top Attorney by SRQ Magazine

Elite Top Attorney

SRQ Magazine · August 2024

About Attorney Johnson

Right by Your Side.
Helping You Stay Afloat.

Sarasota bankruptcy attorney Sherri L. Johnson has dedicated her practice to providing discreet, compassionate counsel to individuals and families navigating financial hardship throughout Southwest Florida.

Unlike large firms where clients are passed among staff, Ms. Johnson personally handles every aspect of your bankruptcy case — from the first consultation all the way through the Meeting of Creditors. You'll always know the attorney managing your case.

Her commitment to her clients and community was recognized in 2024 when SRQ Magazine named her an Elite Top Attorney — a testament to the quality and care she brings to every client relationship.

Serving

Sarasota Bradenton Venice North Port Port Charlotte Charlotte County
Schedule a Free Consultation

How It Works

Your Path to Financial Freedom

A clear, straightforward process. We handle the complexity so you can focus on moving forward.

1

Free Consultation

Schedule a no-obligation consultation — in person, by phone, or via video — to discuss your situation and explore your options.

2

Case Evaluation

Ms. Johnson reviews your finances and determines which chapter best serves your goals — with clear, honest guidance on what to expect.

3

Filing & Protection

Once filed, an automatic stay immediately halts collections, wage garnishments, and foreclosure proceedings — relief begins right away.

4

Fresh Start

Ms. Johnson attends the Meeting of Creditors with you, guiding you through to successful discharge or plan completion and your new beginning.

Common Questions

Answers to Your
Most Important Questions

Most people who file for bankruptcy keep their property. Florida has generous exemptions that protect your home (homestead exemption), vehicle up to a certain value, retirement accounts, and other personal property. The goal is a fresh start, not to strip you of everything you own. Ms. Johnson will explain exactly what is protected in your situation during your consultation.

Chapter 7 typically takes 3–6 months from filing to discharge. Chapter 13 involves a court-approved repayment plan lasting 3–5 years, after which remaining eligible debts are discharged. Once you file, you receive an automatic stay that immediately stops most collection actions — providing relief while the case proceeds.

Chapter 7 is a liquidation bankruptcy that discharges most unsecured debts within a few months. It's best for those with limited income and mostly unsecured debts. Chapter 13 is a reorganization that lets you keep property while repaying debts over 3–5 years through a court-approved plan — ideal for those wanting to save a home or who have income above Chapter 7 limits. Ms. Johnson will help you determine which is appropriate for your situation.

Bankruptcy will impact your credit score in the short term and appears on your credit report for 7–10 years. However, many people find their credit begins to improve relatively quickly after filing because their debt-to-income ratio improves dramatically. Many clients are able to qualify for new credit within 1–2 years of discharge with responsible financial habits. For those already struggling with missed payments and collections, bankruptcy may actually accelerate credit recovery.

Yes. The moment you file for bankruptcy, an "automatic stay" goes into effect that legally requires creditors to immediately stop wage garnishments, debt collection calls, lawsuits, and most foreclosure proceedings. This gives you immediate breathing room while your case is processed. If you're facing garnishment or foreclosure, contacting us promptly is important to protect your rights.

Take the First Step

Your Fresh Start
Is One Call Away.

A free, confidential consultation with Attorney Sherri L. Johnson. No judgment. No pressure. Just clear answers and a path forward.

Call (941) 926-1155 sjohnson@johnsonlegalfl.com

Office Address

2937 Bee Ridge Rd, Suite 1
Sarasota, FL 34239

Get Directions

Phone

(941) 926-1155

Free Consultation Available

Consultation Options

Office Visit

Telephone

Remote Video

Flexible payment plans available — quality representation is within reach.