Best Bankruptcy lawyers in New York

1,571 Bankruptcy Lawyers in New York

>1.6k

experienced lawyers

Lucy F. Kweskin, experienced Bankruptcy, Business attorney in New York, NY with 12 reviews

Average

34,40

Lucy F. Kweskin

1221 Avenue Of The Americas, New York, NY

Bankruptcy Business +1

4.6/5

4.6

12 Reviews

25 Feb, 2024 by Eduardo rojas

03 Feb, 2023 by Nk udogwu

11 Feb, 2020 by Myron glucksman

Adam Albert Sofen, experienced Bankruptcy, Business attorney in New York, NY with 12 reviews

Average

34,40

Adam Albert Sofen

1221 Avenue Of The Americas, New York, NY

Bankruptcy Business Consumer Protection +2

4.6/5

4.6

12 Reviews

25 Feb, 2024 by Eduardo rojas

03 Feb, 2023 by Nk udogwu

11 Feb, 2020 by Myron glucksman

Michele Joy Meises, experienced Bankruptcy, Business attorney in New York, NY with 12 reviews

Average

34,40

Michele Joy Meises

1221 Avenue Of The Americas, New York, NY

Bankruptcy Business Real Estate +2

4.6/5

4.6

12 Reviews

25 Feb, 2024 by Eduardo rojas

03 Feb, 2023 by Nk udogwu

11 Feb, 2020 by Myron glucksman

Elizabeth Veit Osborne, experienced Bankruptcy, Business attorney in New York, NY with 12 reviews

Average

34,40

Elizabeth Veit Osborne

1221 Avenue Of The Americas, New York, NY

Bankruptcy Business Entertainment +2

4.6/5

4.6

12 Reviews

25 Feb, 2024 by Eduardo rojas

03 Feb, 2023 by Nk udogwu

11 Feb, 2020 by Myron glucksman

Edward Hau-Wah So, experienced Bankruptcy, Business attorney in New York, NY with 12 reviews

Average

34,40

Edward Hau-Wah So

1221 Avenue Of The Americas, New York, NY

Bankruptcy Business Entertainment +2

4.6/5

4.6

12 Reviews

25 Feb, 2024 by Eduardo rojas

03 Feb, 2023 by Nk udogwu

11 Feb, 2020 by Myron glucksman

Sarah Firestine Foley, experienced Bankruptcy, Litigation attorney in New York, NY with 12 reviews

Average

34,40

Sarah Firestine Foley

1221 Avenue Of The Americas, New York, NY

Bankruptcy Litigation +1

4.6/5

4.6

12 Reviews

25 Feb, 2024 by Eduardo rojas

03 Feb, 2023 by Nk udogwu

11 Feb, 2020 by Myron glucksman

Lauren Marie Macksoud, experienced Bankruptcy attorney in New York, NY with 12 reviews

Average

34,40

Lauren Marie Macksoud

1221 Avenue Of The Americas, New York, NY

Bankruptcy

4.6/5

4.6

12 Reviews

25 Feb, 2024 by Eduardo rojas

03 Feb, 2023 by Nk udogwu

11 Feb, 2020 by Myron glucksman

Brian Daniel Pfeiffer, experienced Bankruptcy attorney in New York, NY with 12 reviews

Average

34,40

Brian Daniel Pfeiffer

1221 Avenue Of The Americas, New York, NY

Bankruptcy

4.6/5

4.6

12 Reviews

25 Feb, 2024 by Eduardo rojas

03 Feb, 2023 by Nk udogwu

11 Feb, 2020 by Myron glucksman

Elizabeth Feld, experienced Bankruptcy, Consumer Protection attorney in New York, NY with 12 reviews

Average

34,40

Elizabeth Feld

1221 Avenue Of The Americas, New York, NY

Bankruptcy Consumer Protection Insurance +2

4.6/5

4.6

12 Reviews

25 Feb, 2024 by Eduardo rojas

03 Feb, 2023 by Nk udogwu

11 Feb, 2020 by Myron glucksman

Joseph N. Friedman, experienced Bankruptcy, Business attorney in New York, NY with 10 reviews

Average

34,40

Joseph N. Friedman

90 Broad St Fl 18, New York, NY

Bankruptcy Business Entertainment +2

4.6/5

4.6

10 Reviews

11 Dec, 2024 by Support @ instant per diem attorneys

Mr. Scola is a competent and experienced legal professional and we recommend him!

11 Feb, 2023 by Steven l silver

Steve Hess is brilliant

23 Apr, 2022 by Susan matthews

Big ad but lies. Big 0

Average

34,38

Chaim Jacob Fortgang

411 Theodore Fremd Ave Ste 206, Rye, NY

Bankruptcy

4.9/5

4.9

77 Reviews

25 Nov, 2024 by Ricky jimenez

Attorney Palumbo, Was easy to deal with professional and efficient. He actually discovered I had issues with the Port Authority not just the MTA as I believed. He was able to resolve my issue quickly, I highly recommend his services.

20 Nov, 2024 by Felix c

Palumbo and Associates are truly the best out there. They took care of a ticket for me that I got several years ago. They stayed on top of it and were on top of all the notifications I was getting from the courts before I even got them! At the end of the day, CASE DISMISSED! No points, no increase in my insurance policy, and most importantly justice was served. I would recommend them to anyone! Thank you Palumbo and Associates.

28 Oct, 2024 by Probuilders corp

Mike Palumbo is a very good attorney. His office was on top of my case with excellent communication and Excellent results. The 6 point tickets was reduced to zero points. At the end of the day the results speak for themselves. I would highly recommend Palumbo Law.

Average

34,34

Elizabeth S. Sy

926 Rxr Plz, Uniondale, NY

Bankruptcy Consumer Protection Criminal Defense +2

4.9/5

4.9

36 Reviews

26 Aug, 2024 by Jb productions worldwide

The best decision I make was to contact Ellison law PC who was reccomended by a family member for my immigration case, they were thorough preparing my case and very prompt when reaching out to them, they are very knowledgeable about the changes in immigration procedures, I will recommend reaching to them early for results regarding your case.

10 May, 2024 by Andrea dawson

Hands down to Cathy, she is the best in the immigration game....Thank you.

23 Apr, 2024 by Tamika hendricks

I want to express my great joy for the wonderful help and work I received during my case, very grateful for the professional help of attorney Cathy Lee Ellison of Ellison Law PC who worked hard and constantly to help me have the best results in my case, my Ellison is the most educated and professional immigration lawyer when talking to me about any topic to follow in my case, clarifying any doubts or concerns that I had. Miss Ellison is the real deal I am truly very happy for the help I received and the results I obtained. I recommend 100%. % the services of the law offices of Ellison Law PC since from them you can only expect the best service and results you can have in an immigration case.

Average

34,33

Katherine Jane Weall

One Penn Plaza, New York, NY

Appeals Bankruptcy Litigation +2

4.9/5

4.9

32 Reviews

10 Feb, 2025 by June huang

彭律师在我关于美国身份的问题上，给予了细致、耐心和专业的建议，提醒我提前准备好各种相关文件，最终顺利入境，以及为后续留美申请做出了充分准备。感谢彭律师的支持和帮助！推荐彭律师律所的合作！

07 Feb, 2025 by Yijie zhao

非常感谢彭律师及其团队帮助我完成我的case！彭律师团队非常高效且专业，收费合理，且设身处地从客户角度出发，在各方面给予我极大帮助。在合作过程中，我们的沟通非常顺畅。彭律师耐心听取问题并与团队研究后提出行之有效的解决方案。我会推荐身边其他有需要的朋友来找彭律师解决他们的case。

05 Oct, 2024 by Jiangnan hou

I had the pleasure of working with Attorney Peng and Attorney Kong on my O-1B visa application last year, and I cannot express enough how grateful I am for their expertise and dedication throughout the process. From our initial consultation to the final approval, they demonstrated an exceptional understanding of the O-1B category and provided invaluable guidance tailored to my specific field. They were always available to address my questions, providing clear and concise explanations, making the complex immigration process much easier to navigate. I highly recommend their services to anyone seeking dedicated, knowledgeable, and highly professional attorneys for their immigration needs.

Bruce Alan Rothenberg, experienced Bankruptcy, Business attorney in Bohemia, NY with 22 reviews

Average

34,08

Bruce Alan Rothenberg

80 Orville Drive Suite 100, Bohemia, NY

Bankruptcy Business Estate Planning +3 +5

4.5/5

3.8

9 Reviews

5.0

13 Reviews

17 Oct, 2024 by Wendy p

Justin took on a years long complicated and multi-layered situation and closed it with compassion, understanding and swift resolution. He neutralized the harassing parties with finesse and helped me feel safe, after years of family badgering. His confidence made me feel brave and secure; when I could no longer defend myself, he was there for me in dark times. Not only is his skill as a lawyer admirable, but his empathy as a person, creates a calming atmosphere even in the most uncomfortable and litigious circumstances. He acts as an equal in your battle, never demeaning and always presenting with clarity in a timely problem solving fashion. His personal treatment and attention makes you feel whole again, even from seemingly irreparable and broken circumstances. Thank you.

20 Sep, 2023 by Marguerite mckinney

Let me say that this law company completely saved the day when I was involved in a landlord-tenant issue that just wouldn't go away. I was able to win the case and ultimately unwind thanks to their legal acumen and strategic thinking. A huge relief!

07 Aug, 2023 by Andrea nichols

I was in major credit card debt and decided to reach out to them. Let me tell you, they really did some impressive work negotiating with my creditors. Thanks to them, I ended up saving a ton of money!

Average

33,98

Mei Li Zhen

1 Battery Park Plz, New York, NY

Bankruptcy Civil Rights +1

4.8/5

4.8

362 Reviews

29 Dec, 2024 by Sue van der merwe

Fantastic

20 Dec, 2024 by Alyssa mcgonagle

05 Dec, 2024 by Laura crawford

Ellie and Romano Law were helpful in every way! Courteous, competent, knowledgeable, , and went the extra mile for us! We would use them again! Laura Crawford

Average

33,98

Terry Glenn Sanders

1 Battery Park Plz, New York, NY

Bankruptcy Business +1

4.8/5

4.8

360 Reviews

20 Dec, 2024 by Alyssa mcgonagle

05 Dec, 2024 by Laura crawford

Ellie and Romano Law were helpful in every way! Courteous, competent, knowledgeable, , and went the extra mile for us! We would use them again! Laura Crawford

28 Nov, 2024 by Sophie bradbury

If you are looking for the best attorney/law firm, you’re in the right place. Adam Leitman Bailey is nothing short of getting the job done. 10/10 recommend.

Average

33,94

Michael Evan Rothenberg

45 Exchange Blvd Ste 800, Rochester, NY

Bankruptcy Litigation +1

4.8/5

4.8

322 Reviews

13 Jan, 2025 by Scott benjamin

I highly recommend Tim Sardone for your real estate transactions! We were warned that the schedule to complete our home purchase was very optimistic and that it would be difficult for the title work to be finished in this time frame. Tim not only made sure it was on time…it was early. He kept us informed throughout the process and quickly answered all of our questions. And when we sold our old house, he again kept us informed and made sure the sale closed on time. And we were never searching for answers because he anticipated our questions. You can’t go wrong with Tim!

13 Jan, 2025 by Marianne benjamin

Tim Sardone did a great job representing us for the purchase of our new home as well as the selling of our home of 33 years. He ensured that all the title work was done well before scheduled closing dates. He fully explained the process and we had no surprises. We are happy to recommend Tim as an attorney for any real estate transactions.

25 Dec, 2024 by Sammy smith

I am giving Mr. Willman a five star rating if I could give more I would. My self personally has not had Mr. Willman but I know someone who has! And this certainly individual gave Mr. Willman a run for his money. If you know you know. I have always learned it's never a good idea to work against your attorney... But more less let them guide you through your case. And not call the shots that will not work out in your favor.. My hat comes off to Mr. Willman he stood his ground and no matter what maintained perfessional through it all. He worked so hard for this individual and did everything he could possibly could do. But people know sometimes life doesn't go as planned.. Job well done if I ever need Mr. Willman I will for sure reach out to him no questions being asked he is a beast in the court room...

Average

33,83

Vivek S. Suri

20 Vesey Street, New York, NY

Bankruptcy Business Civil Rights +3 +5

4.7/5

2.1

7 Reviews

4.8

277 Reviews

01 Feb, 2025 by Genevieve dullum

Had a great experience with this law firm. Brett Perlstein managed my case and was very professional and made the whole process as painless as possible. Would recommend to anyone who is in need of a great lawyer!

28 Jan, 2025 by Jane hazel

Mina is a fantastic lawyer She really knows her stuff and Is so dedicated to her clients. I am so grateful for all of her help at the worst time of my life.

26 Jan, 2025 by Travis lau

Mina is a fantastic real estate lawyer that I highly recommend to anyone even thinking of buying a condo in NYC. She was very thorough, quick, and walked me through every step of the way. Buying a condo in NYC is pretty complicated compared to other places so having her guide me through was phenomenal. She dug into records and documents that helped us get all the key details and information on the building and property that made me feel confident on the purchase.

Michael Leslie Walker, experienced Bankruptcy, Family Law attorney in Brooklyn, NY with 116 reviews

Average

33,82

Michael Leslie Walker

9052 Fort Hamilton Parkway, Brooklyn, NY

Bankruptcy Family Law Immigration +1 +3

4.4/5

4.6

9 Reviews

4.4

107 Reviews

25 Oct, 2024 by Lil gas

18 Oct, 2024 by Esam krakor

أكتب لأعرب عن عميق امتناني لمكتب مايكل الـ ووكر لتمثيلك المتميز في حالتي. لقد كان لخبرتك وتفانيك دور فعال في تحقيق نتيجة ناجحة. لقد كان أسلوبك الاستراتيجي واهتمامك بالتفاصيل استثنائيًا حقًا. إن دعمكم الذي لا يتزعزع واحترافيتكم لم يفلح في قضيتي فحسب، بل جلب أيضًا ارتياحًا كبيرًا خلال فترة صعبة. أنا ممتن جدًا لعملك الجاد والتزامك. لقد كان من دواعي سروري العمل معكم. و شكر و عرفان خاص للمساعدة فاطمة الذي كانت بمثابة الأخت إنسانة صادقة و صبورة و مخلصة في العمل لقد وفرت قدرتك على التعامل مع المسائل القانونية المعقدة بسهولة راحة البال والوضوح الذي أحتاجه للمضي قدمًا. إن سلوكك المهني وتفانيك في قضيتي لم يوفرا لي الأمان فحسب، بل تجاوز توقعاتي حقًا. إنني أقدر بشدة عملك الجاد وسأوصي بكل سرور بخدماتكم للآخرين الذين قد يحتاجون إلى مساعدة أرجو أن تتقبلوا شكري العميق على التزامكم والخدمة الممتازة التي قدمتموها. لقد كان موضع تقدير حقًا. مع أطيب التحياتي: عصام كركور

11 Oct, 2024 by Fatiha elsadki

I recently worked with Michael L. Walker for my immigration case, and I couldn’t be more pleased with the service I received. From the initial consultation to the final resolution, he demonstrated exceptional knowledge and professionalism. He was always available to answer my questions and guided me through the process with clarity. I also want to highlight his assistant, Fatima. She was incredibly patient and supportive throughout the entire process, making sure I felt comfortable and informed every step of the way. Her excellent communication skills made a significant difference. Overall, I highly recommend Michael L. Walker Esq and his team for anyone seeking immigration services. They truly care about their clients and deliver outstanding results.

Arthur G. Baumeister, experienced Bankruptcy, Litigation attorney in Buffalo, NY with 7 reviews

Average

33,78

Arthur G. Baumeister

174 Franklin Street, Suite 2, Buffalo, NY

Bankruptcy Litigation +1

4.4/5

5.0

1 Reviews

4.3

6 Reviews

10 Sep, 2024 by Dan acker

I had the worst experience with Arthur at this firm, who despite several phone calls and emails never once responded to me regarding his client's case. I would be wary to hire any firm that handles financial affairs of their clients this way.

14 Feb, 2023 by Rizwan alam

Very professional and great person

28 Aug, 2021 by William duffy

Easy to find and park.Took care of our business quickly and carefully.

Michael D. Pinsky, experienced Bankruptcy attorney in Newburgh, NY with 37 reviews

Average

33,76

Michael D. Pinsky

372 Fullerton Avenue, Newburgh, NY

Bankruptcy

4.5/5

4.5

37 Reviews

30 Aug, 2024 by Jen b

So helpful! Thank you so much for everything you've done for us!♡

10 Jun, 2024 by Steve moreau

03 Oct, 2023 by Jasmin blakely

In a stressful time Mr.Pinsky & Jessie were the absolute best. Very knowledgeable & always willing to answer any questions we had. Thank you so much with helping us achieve a fresh start.

Dennis Francis Dunne, experienced Bankruptcy, Business attorney in New York, NY with 32 reviews

Average

33,76

Dennis Francis Dunne

55 Hudson Yards, New York, NY

Bankruptcy Business +1

4.5/5

4.5

32 Reviews

28 Feb, 2024 by Artist farmer

Extremely negative experience after being used by David Boies several years to make himself hundreds of millions. He worked with the lawyer BRAD EDWARDS whose firm SA clients & me, their client. They did this knowing it would damage me psychologically/emotionally without a care. I walked away used and fiscally damaged. SIGRID MCCAWLEY IS AN ABLEIST LIKE NO OTHER, yet looks great in expensive clothes you will pay for folks.

27 Apr, 2023 by Ken yoon

$250 for a takata airbag that never deployed? Thousands of checks and no reviews. Hope the plaintiffs got their $5k.

19 Jul, 2022 by Wiscboy2003

They intimidated former employees of Theranos and have sent threatening letters to others

Matthew Lee Brod, experienced Bankruptcy attorney in New York, NY with 32 reviews

Average

33,76

Matthew Lee Brod

55 Hudson Yards, New York, NY

Bankruptcy

4.5/5

4.5

32 Reviews

28 Feb, 2024 by Artist farmer

27 Apr, 2023 by Ken yoon

$250 for a takata airbag that never deployed? Thousands of checks and no reviews. Hope the plaintiffs got their $5k.

19 Jul, 2022 by Wiscboy2003

They intimidated former employees of Theranos and have sent threatening letters to others

Michael William Price, experienced Bankruptcy attorney in New York, NY with 32 reviews

Average

33,76

Michael William Price

55 Hudson Yards, New York, NY

Bankruptcy

4.5/5

4.5

32 Reviews

28 Feb, 2024 by Artist farmer

27 Apr, 2023 by Ken yoon

$250 for a takata airbag that never deployed? Thousands of checks and no reviews. Hope the plaintiffs got their $5k.

19 Jul, 2022 by Wiscboy2003

They intimidated former employees of Theranos and have sent threatening letters to others

Craig Michael Price, experienced Bankruptcy, Class Action attorney in New York, NY with 32 reviews

Average

33,76

Craig Michael Price

55 Hudson Yards, New York, NY

Bankruptcy Class Action Real Estate +2

4.5/5

4.5

32 Reviews

28 Feb, 2024 by Artist farmer

27 Apr, 2023 by Ken yoon

$250 for a takata airbag that never deployed? Thousands of checks and no reviews. Hope the plaintiffs got their $5k.

19 Jul, 2022 by Wiscboy2003

They intimidated former employees of Theranos and have sent threatening letters to others

David J. Wolfson, experienced Bankruptcy, Business attorney in New York, NY with 32 reviews

Average

33,76

David J. Wolfson

55 Hudson Yards, New York, NY

Bankruptcy Business +1

4.5/5

4.5

32 Reviews

28 Feb, 2024 by Artist farmer

27 Apr, 2023 by Ken yoon

$250 for a takata airbag that never deployed? Thousands of checks and no reviews. Hope the plaintiffs got their $5k.

19 Jul, 2022 by Wiscboy2003

They intimidated former employees of Theranos and have sent threatening letters to others

Average

33,73

Shari Kahn Krouner

1177 Avenue Of The Americas, New York, NY

Bankruptcy Business +1

4.8/5

4.8

129 Reviews

23 Dec, 2024 by Reema jenaidi

My husband and I had an excellent experience with Dotan Cohen Law Offices while applying for our green cards. Their team was incredibly knowledgeable, professional, and attentive throughout the entire process. They guided us step by step, addressing all our concerns and ensuring we had all the necessary documentation. Thanks to their expertise, our applications were approved without any issues. We will definitely be using their services again to apply for our kids' visas once we enter the USA. We highly recommend this office to anyone needing assistance with immigration matters—they truly went above and beyond!

30 Nov, 2024 by Amy feit

We interviewed many attorneys from USA to Israel and hands down felt blessed that we found Dotan Cohen. Not only was he a pleasure to work with but his ingenuity, resourcefulness and compassion with our difficult and complicated case was beyond measure. He was such a great support through our years of this process that I am forever grateful.

14 Nov, 2024 by Liam venter

We recently completed our spousal green card application and without D.C Law it would have been completely impossible. They tracked every detail of our ongoing application for over 4 years and made one of the most difficult times of our lives feel manageable. I cannot thank them enough. Our lives are forever changed thanks to their hard work!

Average

33,73

Peter Laurence Fenton Pettit

1177 Avenue Of The Americas, New York, NY

Bankruptcy Business Real Estate +2

4.8/5

4.8

129 Reviews

23 Dec, 2024 by Reema jenaidi

30 Nov, 2024 by Amy feit

14 Nov, 2024 by Liam venter

Average

33,73

Lia M. Pistilli

1177 Avenue Of The Americas, New York, NY

Bankruptcy Business +1

4.8/5

4.8

129 Reviews

23 Dec, 2024 by Reema jenaidi

30 Nov, 2024 by Amy feit

14 Nov, 2024 by Liam venter

Average

33,73

Joseph Abraham Shifer

1177 Avenue Of The Americas, New York, NY

Bankruptcy Business Real Estate +2

4.8/5

4.8

128 Reviews

23 Dec, 2024 by Reema jenaidi

30 Nov, 2024 by Amy feit

06 Nov, 2024 by Chantelle collier

We could not have done this incredibly daunting spousal green card application without Dotan Cohen. They were so informative and compassionate with my husband and I every step of the way, triple checking everything and making sure we were 100% ready for every step of the entire application. Thank you for changing our lives! We are eternally grateful.

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FAQs

Questions? We have answers

What a Bankruptcy Lawyer Can Do for You

A bankruptcy lawyer specializes in helping individuals and businesses manage overwhelming debt by filing for bankruptcy or exploring alternatives to bankruptcy. They guide clients through the complex legal process of discharging or restructuring debts, represent them in court, and work to protect assets such as homes and cars. Bankruptcy lawyers can also help stop creditor harassment, wage garnishment, and foreclosures through bankruptcy protections.

If you're facing financial hardship, a bankruptcy lawyer can help you decide whether filing for bankruptcy is the right option and assist you through the legal process.

When Should I Hire a Bankruptcy Lawyer?

You should consider hiring a bankruptcy lawyer in the following situations:

Unmanageable debt: If you're unable to pay your bills and debts are piling up, a lawyer can help you explore options such as Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy.
Foreclosure or repossession: If your home is at risk of foreclosure or your vehicle is in danger of being repossessed, a bankruptcy lawyer can help you use bankruptcy protections to prevent this and potentially reorganize your debts.
Wage garnishment: If your wages are being garnished, filing for bankruptcy can stop garnishments and allow you to regain control of your finances.
Creditor harassment: If creditors are constantly calling or sending collection notices, a bankruptcy lawyer can stop these actions by filing for bankruptcy, which enacts an automatic stay that halts collection activities.
Small business debt: If your business is struggling with debt and cannot meet financial obligations, a lawyer can help you file for Chapter 11 (reorganization) or Chapter 7 (liquidation) bankruptcy.
Medical debt or credit card debt: If you have large amounts of unsecured debt like medical bills or credit card balances, a bankruptcy lawyer can help you seek relief through Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy.

Hiring a bankruptcy lawyer early in the process can prevent further financial damage and help you choose the best legal option for debt relief.

What Does a Bankruptcy Lawyer Do?

A bankruptcy lawyer provides a range of services to help individuals and businesses handle their debts. Their responsibilities often include:

Evaluating your financial situation: Assessing your income, assets, debts, and expenses to determine if bankruptcy is the right option and which type of bankruptcy (Chapter 7, Chapter 13, or Chapter 11) best suits your situation.
Filing bankruptcy petitions: Preparing and filing the necessary documents to initiate your bankruptcy case, ensuring that all legal requirements are met.
Stopping creditor harassment: Once the bankruptcy case is filed, an automatic stay is enacted, which stops creditors from pursuing collection efforts. A lawyer ensures this protection is applied immediately.
Representing you in court: Representing you in court proceedings, including meetings with creditors and any hearings related to your case.
Negotiating with creditors: In Chapter 13 or Chapter 11 bankruptcies, negotiating a repayment plan that restructures your debts and allows you to manage payments more effectively.
Advising on asset protection: Guiding you on how to protect certain assets, such as your home or retirement savings, through available bankruptcy exemptions.
Explaining the impact on your credit: Informing you about how bankruptcy will affect your credit and advising on steps to rebuild your credit post-bankruptcy.

How Are Bankruptcy Lawyers Paid?

Bankruptcy lawyers typically charge for their services in different ways depending on the complexity of the case and the type of bankruptcy being filed. Common payment structures include:

Flat fee: Many bankruptcy lawyers charge a flat fee for handling Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy cases. This fee usually covers the entire process, from preparing and filing paperwork to representing you in court.
Hourly rate: For more complex cases, such as Chapter 11 bankruptcy (often used by businesses), some lawyers charge an hourly rate. Hourly rates typically range from $150 to $500 or more.
Retainer: In cases where ongoing legal services are required, such as in Chapter 11 bankruptcies or complex Chapter 13 cases, a lawyer may request a retainer, which is an upfront payment billed against as the lawyer works on the case.

It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer upfront, as bankruptcy law requires lawyers to disclose all fees and ensure they are reasonable and fair.

How Much Does a Bankruptcy Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a bankruptcy lawyer varies depending on the type of bankruptcy and the complexity of the case. General cost estimates include:

Chapter 7 bankruptcy: For individuals, legal fees usually range from $1,000 to $3,500. This flat fee generally covers the entire process.
Chapter 13 bankruptcy: For individuals filing Chapter 13, legal fees typically range from $2,500 to $6,000. This cost is higher because of the additional work required to create and manage the repayment plan.
Chapter 11 bankruptcy (for businesses): Chapter 11 bankruptcy is more complex and usually more expensive, with legal fees ranging from $10,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on the size of the business and the complexity of the debt restructuring.
Filing fees: In addition to legal fees, there are also court filing fees, which are $338 for Chapter 7 and $313 for Chapter 13 as of 2024.

Always ask for a detailed cost estimate during your consultation to understand what services are included and whether payment plans are available.

How to Check the Credibility of a Bankruptcy Lawyer

To ensure you are hiring a reputable bankruptcy lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and track record:

Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice law and has no history of disciplinary actions.
Look for bankruptcy experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in bankruptcy law and have successfully handled cases like yours.
Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about the lawyer’s professionalism and ability to handle bankruptcy cases.
Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on bankruptcy matters.
Check for certifications or memberships: Look for lawyers who are members of organizations such as the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys (NACBA) or who have specialized bankruptcy law certifications.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To get the most out of your first consultation with a bankruptcy lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:

List of debts: Prepare a detailed list of all your debts, including credit cards, personal loans, medical bills, and any secured debts such as mortgages or car loans.
Income and expense records: Bring documents that show your current income, such as pay stubs or tax returns, and a list of your monthly expenses, including rent, utilities, and other essential costs.
Asset information: Provide information on any assets you own, such as your home, car, investments, or other valuable property.
Credit reports: If possible, bring copies of your credit reports to give the lawyer a clear view of your financial situation.
Questions for the lawyer: Prepare a list of questions you have about the bankruptcy process, the lawyer’s fees, and what to expect after filing for bankruptcy.

By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your situation more effectively and provide the best possible legal advice tailored to your needs.

Best Bankruptcy lawyers in New York

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