About Michael Reed
Michael Reed Barnett is a board-certified consumer bankruptcy attorney based in Tampa, Florida. With over 40 years of legal experience, he specializes in various bankruptcy cases, including Chapter 7, Chapter 11, Chapter 12, and Chapter 13. His extensive knowledge in these areas has made him a trusted resource for individuals and small businesses navigating financial difficulties. Mr. Barnett has held the distinction of being board certified by the American Board of Certification in consumer bankruptcy law since January 1993—an accolade that shows his expertise in the field. He earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Florida Levin College of Law in 1985, following a Bachelor of Arts degree from Furman University in 1982. After being admitted to the Florida Bar in the same year, he co-founded the law firm Isaak & Barnett, where he began to build his reputation in bankruptcy law.
In 1992, Mr. Barnett took a significant step by establishing his own practice, Michael Barnett, P.A. This firm is dedicated to helping clients overcome financial challenges, offering tailored solutions to meet their needs. Throughout his career, Mr. Barnett has managed many bankruptcy cases. His experience includes handling Chapter 7 liquidations, where individuals can discharge unsecured debts, and Chapter 13 debt repayment plans, which allow clients to reorganize their debts over time. Additionally, he has worked on Chapter 12 farm repayment plans, providing essential support to farmers facing financial hardships.
Notably, Mr. Barnett is among the few local consumer attorneys who handle bankruptcy appeals, having briefed and argued cases up to the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals. In addition to his legal practice, Mr. Barnett has made significant contributions to the legal community through his writing. He is a contributing author to "Strategies for Consumer Bankruptcy Appeals," a resource available on Amazon and through Thomson Reuters. This publication supports his sharing knowledge and improving the practice of bankruptcy law. His expertise is further recognized by his admission to practice in the U.S.
District Court for the Middle District of Florida, expanding the scope of his legal services. Mr. Barnett has received several honors throughout his career, including the prestigious AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell—an accolade achieved by only about 10% of attorneys. He is an active member of the Tampa Bay Bankruptcy Bar Association, where he was awarded the Pro Bono Service Award in 2016. This recognition highlights his dedication to assisting debtors who cannot afford legal representation, demonstrating his commitment to serving the community and upholding the principles of justice.
