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Walter F Benenati

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney at Orlando, FL

4.9   102 reviews

also known as Benenati Law Firm

Free consultation Virtual consultation available
Free consultation Virtual consultation available
  • Licensed for 15 years
    State FL
    Acquired 2007
    Status
    Member in Good Standing No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

About Walter

Learn Walter’s areas of practice.

4
Practice areas
  1. Bankruptcy and debt
    50%
    Life Has a Restart Button. We help people file for debt relief using the Bankruptcy Code to give clients a fresh start.

    16 years, 13,500 cases

  2. Personal injury
    30%
    We handle all areas of personal injury law including auto accidents, wrongful death, negligent security, and tourist accidents.

    16 years

  3. Chapter 13 bankruptcy
    10%
    As the largest filer of Chapter 13s in Central Florida, a Chapter 13 is an amazing tool that can help you catch up your mortgage, wipe out your debt, and get a fresh start. Call us today.

  4. Chapter 7 bankruptcy
    10%
    We are the largest filer of bankruptcies in Florida. We are here to help you learn all your options during a FREE consultation.

    16 years, 13,500 cases

LIFE HAS A RESTART BUTTON. PAYMENT PLANS. FREE CONSULTATION.

Our law firm specializes in representing clients in bankruptcy, personal injury, and foreclosure defense. We have recovered millions of dollars for our injury clients and our bankruptcy department has filed over 10,000 bankruptcy cases. We are the largest filer of bankruptcies in Central Florida and in the top twenty of the nation but yet in every case you will me with me personally in a FREE consultation.

When you hire me I will be responsive and attentive to your calls and questions. I will return phone calls and be in my office when you need me. I do not golf nor do I take much time off. I am not a trust fund baby. My parents are not doctors and lawyers. They were hard working middle class people before they both passed away while I was in law school over 10 years ago. I am a nice generous person that will treat you with respect. I am married and a father of a 8 year old boy and a 4 year old daughter. When I am not spending time with my family I will be in my office working ON YOUR CASE. You are my client but you are also my employer - I WORK FOR YOU and will work as hard as possible to make you feel I will be your go to lawyer for the rest of your life.

I have extensive experience in what you want to hire me for having filed and handled over 14,000 bankruptcies, foreclosures, and personal injury cases. I will fight for you.  

I established this firm to be the kind of place where clients can feel comfortable and happy about their representation. Our mission in creating the Benenati Law Firm is to provide exceptional legal services at an affordable rate for Central Florida residents.

I earned my juris doctorate law degree in 2006 and passed the Florida Bar Exam on my first attempt. During law school, having to work full-time waiting tables and rely on credit cards to make ends meet, I personally filed bankruptcy almost ten years ago to give myself an opportunity for a fresh start. I have been representing Central Florida residents ever since in legal matters in the areas of Bankruptcy, Personal Injury, and Foreclosure Defense.

We are a trusted referral source for any legal matter you may need. 

Please let me earn your trust and have the opportunity to help you in your legal matter today. Please call us at to set up a FREE consultation at one of our offices in Orlando or Kissimmee. Thank you. 

Awards

Platinum Client Champion
AV Preeminent Peer Review Rating
Client's Choice 2019,2018,2017,2016,2015,2014
Client's Choice
2019 2018 2017 + 3 ...

Photos and videos

Contact Walter

Benenati Law Firm
2702 East Robinson Street
Orlando, FL, 32803

Reviews

4.9 / 5.0
  102 customer reviews
Client's Choice 2019
Client's Choice
Client's Choice is an Avvo award granted to attorneys with a significant number of client reviews over 4 stars in a given year.
Posted by anonymous | September 19, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great care and service!
I hired Walter Benenati just after our initial consultation. He paid attention to my needs and listened to my concerns. I felt that I was being taken care from start to finish of the process. He and his staff made themselves available to me through phone, email or face to face in the office. I highly recommend him and his team for your needs.
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Response from Walter Benenati September 20, 2017
Thank you for the review. It is appreciated.
Posted by Jeff | July 28, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Professional and Hardworking!
I can't speak highly enough of The Benenati Law Firm. Walter and his team did an outstanding job on my case. They have the upmost integrity and tenacity. I will continue to use this great law firm.
Posted by Vanessa | January 7, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Very Knowledgeable!
Walter Benenati Law Firm provided me exceptional service. I was a nervous wreck feeling afraid, confused, and shameful, the staff continue to provide assurance and support. I would without hesitation recommend their Law Firm for your services.
Posted by Hilda | December 13, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
THANK YOU!
In January of 2020 I was scared with so much debt I had gotten myself into. I was confused and did not know what to do. After doing a lot of research and looking at different options I decided to have a consultation with the Benenati Law Firm. When I called to schedule the appointment I could not even speak of how embarrassed I was, I remember telling the receptionist this and she was so sweet and assured me I shouldn't be embarrassed. The day of the consultation I met Mr. Foster and as soon he sat down with me and went over the process, I felt that I could finally breathe again, I knew I was in the right place and that I was doing the right thing. Everyone in the office was so professional, polite and understanding, my questions never went unanswered. Irene was my case worker, and let me tell you, it did not matter how many times I called or emailed her she always answered my questions and calmed me down. After my first petition was submitted I received a letter for a debt I did not include, it was a Friday afternoon and I did not want to go the weekend thinking about this debt and what I needed to do. When I called the law office my case worker was already gone for the day, and the receptionist told me not to worry that she was going to get someone to answer my questions, she told me she did not want me to spend the weekend worried and thinking about this. Mr. Benenati himself got on the phone and answered my questions and concerns. He told me what I needed to do step by step. Attorney Padilla was with me during my bankruptcy meeting, it was such a relief. Every step I had to take the firm was with me and backed me up, not once did I feel alone during this process. 2 months after the court meeting my bankruptcy was discharged and I could not have done it without the wonderful people at the Benenati firm. I recommend this firm for anyone that is looking for a reset button!!!!!!! THANK YOU BENENATI LAW FIRM for a new start! Keep up the EXCELLENT work!!!!!
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Posted by Lisa | November 26, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The Best most hands on compassionate lawyer!
I was seriously depressed & completely in debt & it was really overwhelming me. At 12:30am I heard a commercial on tv about Mr Benenati’s firm. I called before the commercial ended & to my astonishment HE ANSWERED THAT LATE. He listened to me wasn’t short at all told me to call him tomorrow. Fast forward he stopped all those harassing phone calls & Sincerely helped me. I didn’t think anyone could help me. I had never filed for bankruptcy & they explained everything along the way. He was the best & his firm treats people just like him. All I can say is if u need an attorney for anything hire Walter Benenati. He will work hard for you. Like he did for me. If I were to have an accident I would go to him because I know he would help me ever step of the way. I really don’t think there are a lot of Walter Benenati’s out there. So I wouldn’t 2nd guess hiring this one. Because he actually cares about each & every client he has. I would use him in the future for whatever my needs are. Thank Mr Benenati I was on the brink of severe depression the phone calls were so bad. I only had to give them his # once & I never heard back from them. I’m so lucky to have had him. Thank god he answered that night @12:30 am. & the best thing my credit has been rising & I haven’t done anything . Except pay my car & auto insurance. Thx I hope people read this & know there is a light under that tunnel. God bless Lisa
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Posted by Kera | January 24, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Do it for you and your future. I did and now I have a fresh start.
What to say, what to share.... I hated when my phone rang, it was 95% of the time a collector calling me and harassing me about making a payment at a price I couldn't afford to do and this was happening for several credit cards and other bills that I owed for. I had tried so hard to put this off, tried to make just the minimum payments and it felt like I was in the middle of the ocean treading water just barely. Then the breaking point happens, it is the one thing that drives you to finally make the phone call and make an appointment. As I dialed, I felt sick to my stomach, I felt so low but the office was amazingly helpful. Not once did they pass judgement upon me or make me feel any worse than I already had made myself feel. The first appointment we went over the basic debts I had and assets and things, just the thought of doing this was overwhelming to me because of how I grew up and was always told that bankruptcy was like having the scarlet letter on you. As I started to cry, I was given a tissue and reassured that it is going to be okay. I was told that the constant treading water was getting me no where and for how long I was treading water, they were right. I couldn't keep on doing what I had been doing because it wasn't working. I would be in debt until my retirement if I kept going the way I did. I am not super proud I got myself in that position in the first place and life situations do happen. But I am happy I did proceed with it. Now I can have this clean slate, a fresh start and the opportunity to save money for a change and make a better future for my kids and family. The staff were amazing. I tried to not email too often, but when I did, the response was always a reassuring one. Communication was always amazing, they always answered my questions no matter how silly or stupid I thought they were. My case just closed and it is actually all done and over with now. It is a relief that I do not have my phone constantly ringing with collectors anymore. I had even been given a book of Dave Ramsey on starting over and a few suggestions on how to rebuild my credit in a good way and what to watch out for (scams). I would highly recommend the Law Offices of Walter Benenati and his staff. If you are reading this, you are probably in a similar situation that I was, you have googled Bankruptcy multiple times, you feel you are doing your research by reading reviews, these are all the things I did as well. I waited 3-4 months from the first time I searched that term to the time I finally swallowed my pride and made the call. I have much less stress now and can focus on the future. Do yourself a favor and at least go in for a consultation and see what they say, see how you feel. Do it for your future.
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Response from Walter Benenati October 23, 2020
Wow. Thank you so much for sharing your positive experience with our Firm. It means so much to me and the rest of our team. I love when you wrote that you finally swallowed your pride and called for help. I tell my clients that the hardest part is making that initial call. I remember it was for me when I personally filed bankruptcy. It was embarrassing at first but when I realized that I was not a bad person and but rather, was dealt serious obstacles that caused me to file - some of it my own doing, I felt that I was being proactive in my life and changing my circumstances. I'm so happy I filed in 2008, got a new lease on life, and I am so happy that you pressed the Restart Button on your life. Best of luck and I wish you great health and happiness in your future endeavors. - Walter Benenati
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Posted by anonymous | October 7, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Ms Mason
The Benenati Law Firm assisted me with a recent matter that required the services of a attorney. This Law firm was highly recommended to me and I must admit, this office did an amazing job with my case! From the beginning to the very end, nothing but support & guidance. Although I was a nervous wreck, Mr Benenati and the staff really made the proceedings easy for me to understand and navigate. Thank you so much for making and handling a stressful situation (for me) with such professionalism. I appreciate you all very much.
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Response from Walter Benenati November 4, 2019
We're thrilled you had such a positive experience. Thank you for your review. It means a lot. - Walter Benenati
Posted by Kim | September 25, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Bankruptcy
Everyone in this law firm are friendly. The women I worked with were organized, reliable and knowledgeable. Walter Benenati (whom I hired) is very no-nonsense, direct and to the point. Exactly how you want your lawyer to be. He wants to win, period. His office handled all the paperwork, times, schedules, emails and whatnot. I met with Walter for my consultation, and once before the hearing. His staff handled the rest. The hearing went smoothly, they represented me professionally and ended with a positive result. I will definitely recommend this firm.
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Response from Walter Benenati September 26, 2019
Thank you so much for the kind words. It means so much you took the time to provide your feedback on your experience with us. We're wishing you and your family all the best. - Walter Benenati
Posted by Martha | September 16, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Bankruptcy
Very professional and understanding about my finances struggles. I would recommend to family and friends.
Posted by William | September 12, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Review
I contacted the Benenati law firm about bankruptcy and everyone I was in contact with from start to finish were so helpful , knowledgeable and friendly ! They made something that felt daunting go smooth.
Posted by Bill | August 25, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Highly attentive professional service in every way. We will never seek another law firm for any of our needs going forward. Mr Benanati is highly recommended.
Posted by Angi | August 5, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best attorney experience
Benenati Law Firm has an incredibly well-trained staff, from the receptionist to Mr. Benenati himself. They are all on the same page, they all care immensely about their clients, they all treat clients with dignity and respect, and I could not find one fault with their actions. As a veteran with PTSD, finding an attorney who was honest and kind, who also was able to strongly advocate for me and my situation in a trustworthy and timely fashion was a feat in itself. That his entire office staff also bore this same consciousness regarding their behaviors is incredible. I would definitely use this firm again should the need arise, and I can't recommend them highly enough.
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Posted by anonymous | July 22, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Super nice firm
From start to finish, the firm was very nice and answered all my questions and was very reassuring. All very professional. Thank you all!
Posted by Norman | June 29, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Fresh Start Indeed
Mr Benenati and the entire group I worked with were outstanding. Everything in detail was explained and any questions were quickly answered. Having to file Bankruptcy and any age or time in not the most desirable experience to have but thanks to Being in the Hospital and having a heart procedure during all this was lessened with the knowledge that everything was being handled by this group of professional helped. Thanks again as it is a Fresh Start.
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Posted by anonymous | June 21, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Lawyer
Very helpful. I wanted to thank you for the excellent work you did as my attorney. I know you have a lot of clients, so your prompt responses and attention to detail really meant a lot to me.
Posted by anonymous | June 21, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Exceptional work!!! Thank you
I just want to say the work your firm did with my case was well above my expections. I appreciate the professionalism from the staff especially, Stephanie, Lynn and Claribel. I had so much anxiety about this process and even during my hearing but Claribel helped calm me and assured me it was going to be okay. Once again I thnak you all for the assistance with this and the astounding professionalism. I will definelty recommend you if someone is in need of a bankruptcy.
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Posted by anonymous | June 12, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best lawyer and office to work with..
Services and representation was great. Explains everything step by step. Never get arregvate if have call with additional questions. Staff is wonderful . Knows what they are doing. Very professional. Always respond promptly. Everything was finalize within time frame was told. Will recommend to anyone. Keep the good services you provide.
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Posted by anonymous | May 30, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best guidance ever!
This was a difficult experience since at my age you never plan to go bankrupt, but the support and guidance from Walter Benenati was a great relief and strength. I was very afraid because it is my first time in bankruptcy. But everything went well and now I can start again! Thank you, Walter Benenati. I bless you and your entire team!!! PS: If you are searching for a good attorney who could represent you .. Stop looking around ... Call Benenati Lawfirm!
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Posted by anonymous | May 25, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Professional service to the maximum
Polite Professional Rapid Informative From the day I walked in For consultation The staff was extremely polite And professional I was informed of everything that was gonna happen And what needed to be done I truly recommend this law firm
Posted by Carlos | May 22, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Very Professional Lawyer. A+++++
Would recommend Walter Benenati to all friends and Family. Great Experience! A+++++
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 30 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Owner
  • Law Offices Of Walter Benenati
  • 2007 - Present
  • Law Clerk
  • Fair Credit Law Group
  • 2005 - 2006
  • Certified Legal Intern
  • City of Fort Lauderdale Prosecutor's Office
  • 2005 - 2006

Education

  • St. Thomas University School of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 2006
  • Florida International University
  • BS - Bachelor of Science
  • 2002

Legal Cases

  • Marsee vs American Student Assistance et al
  • Settlement and elimination of $68,000 of student loan debt
  • in Re Dowman
  • Chapter 13 Case confirmed with $153k erased from home debt

Associations

  • Florida Justice Association
  • Member
  • 2015 - Present
  • Osceola County Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2014 - Present
  • Windsong Homeowners Association
  • President
  • 2014 - Present
  • Orange County Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2010 - Present
  • National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys
  • Esteemed Member
  • 2009 - Present
  • Central Florida Bankruptcy Law Association
  • Member
  • 2009 - Present
  • National Association of Consumer Advocates
  • Esteemed Member
  • 2008 - Present
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • Spanish

Honors and Awards

  • Top 100 Lawyers
  • The National Advocates
  • 2016
  • Florida Legal Elite
  • Florida Trend Magazine
  • 2016
  • Preeminent 4.6 out of 5
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2016
  • Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2015
  • Preeminent 4.6 out of 5.0
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2014
  • Client Distinction Award
  • Lawyers.com
  • 2014
  • Largest Law Firm
  • Orlando Business Journal
  • 2014
  • Client Distinction Award
  • Lawyers.com
  • 2013
  • Largest Law Firm
  • Orlando Business Journal
  • 2013
  • All-USA Aademic Team
  • USA Today
  • 2000
  • All-Florida Academic Team Scholarshp
  • Florida International University Honors College
  • 2000
View all awards

Publications

Speaking Engagements

  • FAMU Law School
  • Bankruptcy: Perils and Pitfalls of the Practice of Bankruptcy
  • 2014

Attorney endorsements

Received (17)
Given (17)
Endorse Walter
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Jun 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Walter Benenati has a great reputation in our community for Bankruptcy and Personal Injury matters. His firm does a solid job and he is well liked by clients and attorneys alike. I endorse this attorney for Bankruptcy and Personal Injury/Accident."
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Oct 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Walter is one of the top bankruptcy lawyers in the Orlando area. He puts his clients first and handles matters quickly and efficiently."
Personal injury Attorney | Dec 23
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Walter Benenati is a dedicated advocate for his clients. He understands that hard work is critical to the success of his clients' cases and no one out works or has the drive Walter possesses. Walter never gives up and will always find a way to win for his clients."
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Nov 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Walter is a very experienced attorney who has his client's best interest at heart. His hard work has help many in this community"
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Nov 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I've had the pleasure of knowing Walter for the past several years. He has a comprehensive knowledge of the bankruptcy field and is dedicated to a positive outcome for his clients. He is one of the most highly respected attorneys in the legal community and for good reason."
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Jun 18
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse attorney Benenati for several reasons. First he and his firm are extremely respected in the community. Second and even more important of a reason to me is that I have referred many clients to him. ALL have informed me that they have been extremely happy with the service they received. Many were for Bankruptcy matters which can be embarrassing and invasive. They told me that he and his firm made him feel comfortable and well informed. For these reasons I highly recommend Mr Benenati and his firm."
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Jun 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. He is extremely knowledgeable and able to respond to his client's needs. I have referred clients to him and I have heard positive results."
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Jun 01
Relationship: Worked for lawyer
"Walter is an extremely organized, intelligent, and caring attorney. He goes above and beyond for his clients and demands the best from his staff because he understands that his clients are facing a difficult situation. When I worked as an Associate at his firm, he emphasized the importance of taking pride in delivering flawless work product for our clients, returning their phone calls in a timely manner, and keeping them informed of the process every step of the way. I highly recommend him without any hesitation."
Unknown Attorney | Feb 11
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer. An asset to the community and a credit to the profession."
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Feb 02
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Walter and I have worked on several matters and he has always been a pleasure to deal with. Walter possesses the highest sense of professionalism and ethics and every client that I have ever referred to him would always tell me how pleased they were to have worked with him."
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Feb 02
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Walter is an impressive, caring, and knowledgeable attorney. He is a credit to our legal community."
Personal injury Attorney | Dec 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Michael has an excellent reputation in the legal community."
Chapter 13 bankruptcy Attorney | Dec 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Top-notch attorney in his field. Walter is highly respected in the legal community."
Chapter 7 bankruptcy Attorney | Sep 22
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Walter is an impeccable attorney whose attention to detail and client needs is unsurpassed. This would appear to not be just my opinion, but that of the bankruptcy community as a whole. Highly recommended."
Unknown Attorney | Sep 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Top-notch attorney. Highly respected in the legal community."
Foreclosure Attorney | Aug 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"We have referred several clients to Mr. Benenati for Foreclosures and Bankruptcy matters. The clients are always impressed with Mr. Benenati's knowledge in this specialized area of law and the personalized attention they receive from the firm. I endorse this lawyer."
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Nov 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Walter Benenati is an exceptional bankruptcy attorney. He is devoted to his practice and goes above and beyond the norm. He is dedicated to his clients and works hard to protect their interests. I highly recommend Walter Benenati and would not think twice before referring him a client."
View more endorsements
Debt collection
Bankruptcy and debt
Chapter 13 bankruptcy
Wrongful death
Bankruptcy and debt
Personal injury
Bankruptcy and debt
Personal injury
Litigation
Bankruptcy and debt
Criminal defense
Criminal defense