Bank levy - need info on scope and exemptions

What is the name of your state?CA

1. Prior to being informed of the bank levy placed by a creditor, I made a deposit in person. As the teller began to process the deposit, she told me that my account is frozen. I asked for the check back but she said she cannot give it back to me. Are deposits made after the levy was issued included in the levy?

2. I have been unemployed for almost 2 years and own no property. Since that deposit was frozen, I had to borrow more money just to get food on the table. May I claim an exemption? Short of securing employment or other sources of income, is bankruptcy my best option?

thanks.