Bankruptcy in Palm Beach County

Palm Beach County is the northernmost county in the Miami metro area and the largest by land area. Bankruptcy cases are handled in the West Palm Beach Division of the Southern District of Florida.

Key Information

Federal District

Southern District of Florida (West Palm Beach Division)

All bankruptcy cases from Palm Beach County are filed in this district.

Nearest Courthouse

701 Clematis St, West Palm Beach, FL 33401

341 meetings and court hearings are typically held at this location.

Florida Exemptions in Palm Beach County

Florida state exemptions apply. Homestead: unlimited value, half acre municipal / 160 acres rural. 1,215-day ownership required or federal cap applies. Personal property: $1,000. Vehicle: $1,000. Wildcard: $4,000. Head-of-household wages fully exempt. Federal exemptions not available in Florida.

Exemptions determine what property you can keep in bankruptcy. See the full exemptions guide.

Filing Bankruptcy in Palm Beach County

The Process

Credit counseling -- Complete an approved course within 180 days before filing ($15-25).
File your petition -- The petition is filed with the Southern District of Florida (West Palm Beach Division). The automatic stay takes effect immediately.
341 meeting -- About 30 days after filing, attend a brief meeting of creditors at 701 Clematis St, West Palm Beach, FL 33401.
Debtor education -- Complete a second financial course before discharge ($10-25).
Discharge -- Chapter 7: approximately 60 days after the 341 meeting. Chapter 13: after completing 3-5 year plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which bankruptcy court handles Palm Beach County cases?

Palm Beach County cases are filed in the Southern District of Florida, West Palm Beach Division. The courthouse is at 701 Clematis St, West Palm Beach, FL 33401. This is the northernmost division of the Southern District.

Are Palm Beach County exemptions different from Miami-Dade?

No. Florida exemptions apply uniformly across all counties. The homestead, vehicle, personal property, and wildcard exemptions are the same whether you live in Palm Beach, Broward, or Miami-Dade County.

Can I protect my retirement accounts in Palm Beach County?

Yes. Florida fully exempts qualified retirement accounts including 401(k) plans, IRAs, pensions, and profit-sharing plans. This protection applies regardless of the account balance and is in addition to the other Florida exemptions.