When you face financial difficulties, finding the right legal representation can make a significant difference in navigating the complex world of bankruptcy.
New York City, with its bustling economy and diverse population, is home to numerous experienced bankruptcy attorneys who can guide you through this challenging process.
Choosing the best bankruptcy lawyer in New York can help protect your assets, negotiate with creditors, and provide a clear path towards financial recovery. These legal professionals possess in-depth knowledge of both state and federal bankruptcy laws, ensuring that you receive comprehensive advice tailored to your unique situation.
Whether you’re considering Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy, a skilled attorney can help you make informed decisions and work towards a fresh financial start.
1) Jones Law Firm
Jones Law Firm specializes in bankruptcy cases in New York City.
You’ll find experienced attorneys ready to guide you through complex financial situations.
The firm offers personalized attention to each client’s unique circumstances.
Whether you’re facing personal or business bankruptcy, their team can provide tailored solutions.
You can expect comprehensive legal advice on Chapter 7 and Chapter 11 filings.
The lawyers at Jones Law Firm stay up-to-date with the latest bankruptcy laws and regulations.
They prioritize clear communication throughout the bankruptcy process.
You’ll receive regular updates and explanations of each step in plain language.
The firm’s attorneys have a track record of successful outcomes for their clients.
They work diligently to protect your assets and negotiate with creditors on your behalf.
You can schedule a consultation to discuss your financial situation and explore your options.
Jones Law Firm offers flexible appointment times to accommodate your schedule.
Their office is conveniently located in Manhattan, making it easily accessible for New York City residents.
You’ll find a professional and welcoming environment when you visit.
The firm’s attorneys are members of relevant professional associations, ensuring they stay connected with industry developments.
This commitment to ongoing education benefits you as a client.
2) Smith & Associates
Smith & Associates is a respected bankruptcy law firm in New York City.
Their team of experienced attorneys specializes in guiding clients through complex financial difficulties.
You can rely on Smith & Associates for personalized attention to your case.
They offer tailored solutions to help you navigate the bankruptcy process effectively.
The firm’s lawyers have a deep understanding of both state and federal bankruptcy laws.
This knowledge allows them to provide you with comprehensive legal advice and representation.
Smith & Associates prioritizes clear communication with clients.
You’ll receive regular updates on your case progress and explanations of legal procedures in easy-to-understand terms.
The firm handles various types of bankruptcy cases, including Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 filings.
They can assist you in determining which option best suits your financial situation.
At Smith & Associates, you’ll find a supportive environment during challenging times.
Their attorneys strive to alleviate your stress by managing the legal aspects of your bankruptcy.
The firm’s track record demonstrates their commitment to achieving favorable outcomes for clients.
They work diligently to protect your assets and help you regain financial stability.
Smith & Associates offers flexible scheduling options to accommodate your needs.
You can arrange consultations at times that work best for your busy life.
3) Goldberg Bankruptcy Attorneys
When facing financial difficulties, you need experienced legal representation.
Goldberg Bankruptcy Attorneys offer expert guidance through the complex bankruptcy process in New York.
The firm’s attorneys have a deep understanding of bankruptcy and creditor debtor rights.
They can help you navigate Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 filings, ensuring your rights are protected throughout the proceedings.
Goldberg Bankruptcy Attorneys provide personalized attention to each client.
You’ll receive a thorough assessment of your financial situation and clear explanations of your options.
The firm’s lawyers stay up-to-date with the latest changes in bankruptcy law.
This knowledge allows them to offer you the most effective strategies for debt relief and financial recovery.
You can expect aggressive representation from Goldberg Bankruptcy Attorneys.
They’ll work tirelessly to defend your rights as a consumer and help you achieve the best possible outcome in your case.
With offices in Manhattan, the firm is conveniently located to serve clients throughout New York City.
You can easily schedule a consultation to discuss your specific financial challenges and potential solutions.
Goldberg Bankruptcy Attorneys have a strong track record of successful cases.
Their experience and dedication have earned them recognition in the legal community, giving you confidence in their ability to handle your bankruptcy case effectively.
4) Brown & Michaels Legal Group
Brown & Michaels Legal Group is a law firm based in Ithaca, New York.
Their office is located in the heart of central New York State, home to Cornell University and Ithaca College.
The firm specializes in various legal areas, including bankruptcy and restructuring.
When you’re facing financial difficulties, their experienced attorneys can guide you through the complex legal processes related to distressed businesses.
Brown & Michaels offers personalized attention to each client.
You can expect a stress-free experience as they handle your bankruptcy case with professionalism and care.
The firm prides itself on its modern technology infrastructure.
This allows them to work remotely and serve clients effectively, no matter where you’re located in New York State.
If you’re considering bankruptcy or need advice on restructuring options, Brown & Michaels can help.
They can assist with both reorganization and liquidation processes, depending on your specific situation.
Client reviews praise the firm’s communication, responsiveness, and quality of service.
You can expect transparent and honest advice throughout your legal proceedings.
To discuss your case, you can reach out to Brown & Michaels for a consultation.
Their team will assess your situation and provide tailored legal strategies to help you navigate your financial challenges.
5) Harrington Law Offices
Harrington Law Offices provides expert bankruptcy legal services in New York.
You can trust their experienced team to guide you through complex financial challenges.
The firm specializes in Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy cases.
Their attorneys work closely with you to determine the best course of action for your situation.
At Harrington Law Offices, you’ll receive personalized attention.
They understand that each client’s financial circumstances are unique and require tailored solutions.
The attorneys at Harrington Law Offices are known for their thorough approach.
They meticulously review your financial documents and explain all available options.
You can expect clear communication throughout the bankruptcy process.
The firm keeps you informed at every step, ensuring you understand the proceedings and potential outcomes.
Harrington Law Offices offers competitive rates for their services.
They strive to make quality legal representation accessible to those facing financial hardship.
The firm’s attorneys stay up-to-date with the latest bankruptcy laws and regulations.
This knowledge allows them to provide you with the most current and effective legal strategies.
You can schedule a consultation with Harrington Law Offices to discuss your financial situation.
Their team will assess your case and provide honest advice on the best path forward.
6) White & Case LLP
White & Case LLP stands out as a recognized leader in financial restructuring and insolvency.
Their global team guides clients through complex restructurings, workouts, and insolvency matters worldwide.
You’ll find White & Case offers substantial resources in key jurisdictions, allowing them to handle multinational cases effectively.
Their expertise extends to representing large corporations in simultaneous restructurings across multiple countries.
The firm’s bankruptcy practice is bolstered by attorneys like Thomas Lauria, widely regarded as one of the leading bankruptcy lawyers in the United States.
As Global Head of the Financial Restructuring and Insolvency Practice, Lauria has played a crucial role in restructuring over $100 billion in debt.
White & Case’s reputation for handling large and complex restructurings makes them a go-to choice for high-stakes bankruptcy cases.
Their team’s experience spans various industries and jurisdictions.
When you work with White & Case, you benefit from their extensive track record and global reach.
Their attorneys are well-versed in navigating the intricacies of bankruptcy law across different legal systems.
7) Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP
Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP stands out as a top choice for bankruptcy and restructuring matters in New York.
The firm’s restructuring practice offers exceptional strength and expertise.
You can rely on Davis Polk for handling complex bankruptcy litigation.
Their attorneys represent a diverse range of clients, including companies, financial institutions, hedge funds, investors, and acquirers in high-profile restructurings.
The firm’s experience extends to both debtor and creditor representation, giving them a comprehensive understanding of bankruptcy proceedings.
This dual perspective allows you to benefit from their strategic insights.
Davis Polk excels in cross-border restructuring cases, particularly in Asia, Latin America, and Europe.
If you’re dealing with international bankruptcy matters, their global expertise can be invaluable.
The firm’s talent is widely recognized. Marshall S. Huebner has been named one of the 500 Leading U.S. Bankruptcy and Restructuring Lawyers in 2023 by Lawdragon.
He’s also received accolades as an “Energy & Environmental Trailblazer” and “Dealmaker of the Year.”
Another standout attorney is David Schiff, recognized as an “Outstanding Young Restructuring Lawyer” in 2024.
He’s also been named in the American Bankruptcy Institute’s “40 Under 40” list for 2023.
When you choose Davis Polk, you’re selecting a firm known for its world-class practices across the board.
Their expertise in bankruptcy and restructuring is part of a broader suite of elite legal services.
8) Kaye Scholer LLP
Arnold & Porter Kaye Scholer LLP, a prestigious law firm with a strong presence in New York, has expanded its capabilities in bankruptcy and restructuring through a recent merger.
This merger has expanded the firm’s capabilities in bankruptcy and restructuring.
The firm’s New York office is located at 250 West 55th Street.
Their team of bankruptcy attorneys is well-equipped to handle complex business bankruptcy cases.
The merger has created a powerhouse in both New York and Washington D.C., offering you comprehensive legal services.
When you choose Arnold & Porter Kaye Scholer LLP, you’re selecting a firm with a deep bench of talent and extensive resources.
Their attorneys are known for providing cutting-edge litigation and transactional capabilities in bankruptcy matters.
The firm’s commitment to excellence is evident in their selection process for attorneys, which is peer-influenced and rigorous.
This ensures you receive high-quality legal representation for your bankruptcy needs.
9) Weil Gotshal & Manges LLP
Weil Gotshal & Manges LLP is a top-tier bankruptcy and restructuring firm in New York.
Their expertise in complex bankruptcy matters is widely recognized in the legal community.
The firm’s bankruptcy litigation practice has a proven track record of representing clients in challenging and intricate bankruptcy-related cases.
Their experience extends both within the United States and internationally.
Weil’s bankruptcy litigation team offers unmatched breadth and depth of expertise.
This makes them uniquely positioned to handle a wide range of bankruptcy issues for their clients.
In 2023, ten Weil partners were named to the Lawdragon 500 Leading U.S. Bankruptcy and Restructuring Lawyers list.
This recognition highlights the firm’s standing among the elite bankruptcy practitioners in the country.
The firm’s reputation for excellence in bankruptcy and restructuring is further solidified by their consistent high rankings.
Chambers and Partners has ranked Weil in Band 2 for Bankruptcy/Restructuring nationwide for 17 consecutive years.
When you choose Weil Gotshal & Manges LLP, you’re selecting a firm with a long-standing tradition of excellence in bankruptcy law.
Their team of experienced attorneys is well-equipped to guide you through even the most complex bankruptcy and restructuring matters.
10) Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP
Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP is a top choice for bankruptcy litigation in New York.
The firm’s global restructuring team is renowned for handling complex and contentious bankruptcy matters.
You can expect sophisticated, effective, and creative advice from Cleary Gottlieb’s attorneys.
Their expertise extends to both domestic and international bankruptcy cases.
The firm represents a diverse range of clients, including debtors, creditors, ad hoc groups, lenders, and official committees.
This broad client base demonstrates their versatility in handling various aspects of bankruptcy law.
Cleary Gottlieb’s New York office, established in 1946, serves as the hub for many of the firm’s financial matters.
With approximately 600 lawyers based in New York, you have access to a deep pool of legal talent.
The firm’s bankruptcy practice is particularly noted for its standout expertise in sovereign debt restructuring transactions.
This specialization sets Cleary Gottlieb apart in the field of international bankruptcy law.
When you choose Cleary Gottlieb, you’re selecting a firm with a long-standing reputation for excellence.
Their attorneys consistently deliver high-quality counsel to stakeholders in Chapter 11 cases.
The firm’s approach focuses on providing simple, actionable solutions to complex legal and business challenges.
This practical mindset can be invaluable when navigating the intricacies of bankruptcy proceedings.
Understanding Bankruptcy Laws in New York
New York’s bankruptcy laws provide options for individuals and businesses facing financial hardship.
These laws offer protection and a fresh start through different types of bankruptcy filings and specific exemptions that allow you to keep certain assets.
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
Chapter 7 bankruptcy, also known as liquidation bankruptcy, allows you to eliminate most unsecured debts.
In New York, you must pass a means test to qualify for Chapter 7.
This test compares your income to the state median income for a household of your size.
If you qualify, a trustee will be appointed to sell your non-exempt assets to pay creditors.
However, many Chapter 7 cases are “no-asset” cases, meaning you can keep all your property.
The process typically takes 3-4 months from filing to discharge.
After discharge, most of your unsecured debts are wiped out, giving you a clean slate.
Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
Chapter 13 bankruptcy is a reorganization plan that allows you to keep your assets while repaying some or all of your debts over 3-5 years.
This option is ideal if you have a regular income and want to catch up on missed mortgage or car payments.
In New York, you must have unsecured debts less than $419,275 and secured debts less than $1,257,850 to qualify for Chapter 13.
You’ll propose a repayment plan to the court, detailing how you’ll pay your creditors.
During the repayment period, you’re protected from foreclosure, repossession, and creditor harassment.
Upon completion of the plan, remaining eligible debts are discharged.
Bankruptcy Exemptions
New York offers generous bankruptcy exemptions that allow you to protect certain assets from creditors.
You can choose between federal or state exemptions, but not both.
Key New York state exemptions include:
- Homestead: Up to $170,825 in equity (varies by county)
- Personal property: Up to $1,150 in cash, $4,825 in household goods
- Vehicle: Up to $4,825 in equity
- Retirement accounts: Fully exempt
- Wildcard: $1,150 for any property
These exemptions help you maintain essential assets while going through the bankruptcy process, ensuring you have a foundation for your financial recovery.
Qualities of the Best Bankruptcy Lawyers
When seeking legal representation for bankruptcy, certain key qualities distinguish top-tier attorneys.
These attributes ensure you receive expert guidance, personalized service, and transparent communication throughout the process.
Experience and Expertise
Selecting a bankruptcy lawyer with extensive experience is crucial.
Look for attorneys who have practiced bankruptcy law for many years, as they’ll be well-versed in local court procedures and judges’ preferences.
Expertise in specific bankruptcy chapters is also vital.
Consider lawyers who focus primarily on bankruptcy cases rather than those who handle it as a side practice.
Attorneys who have successfully managed thousands of cases are likely to navigate complex situations effectively.
Check if the lawyer is a member of professional organizations like the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys.
This indicates a commitment to staying updated on changing bankruptcy laws and best practices.
Client Testimonials and Reviews
Client feedback provides valuable insights into a lawyer’s performance and client satisfaction.
Look for attorneys with positive reviews on reputable platforms like Avvo or Martindale-Hubbell.
Pay attention to reviews that mention:
- Clear communication
- Responsiveness to client concerns
- Successful case outcomes
- Empathy and understanding
Be wary of lawyers with numerous negative reviews or complaints about hidden fees or poor communication.
A pattern of satisfied clients often indicates a trustworthy and competent attorney.
Transparency in Fees
A top bankruptcy lawyer will be upfront about their fee structure.
They should provide a clear breakdown of costs during your initial consultation.
Be cautious of attorneys who are vague about fees or promise unrealistically low rates.
Many reputable bankruptcy lawyers offer free initial consultations to discuss your case.
Use this opportunity to ask about:
- Flat fees vs. hourly rates
- Additional costs for filing or court appearances
- Payment plans or options
Transparency in fees helps you avoid surprises and budget accordingly for your bankruptcy proceedings.
It also demonstrates the lawyer’s commitment to ethical practices and client trust.
Frequently Asked Questions
Understanding typical costs, qualifications, and reputable firms can help you make an informed decision when selecting the right bankruptcy attorney in New York.
How much does a Chapter 7 bankruptcy attorney typically charge in New York?
Chapter 7 bankruptcy attorneys in New York typically charge between $1,500 and $3,500 for their services.
This fee often includes the initial consultation, preparation of bankruptcy paperwork, and representation at the 341 meeting of creditors.
Costs may vary based on the complexity of your case and the attorney’s experience level.
What are some of the top bankruptcy law firms in New York City?
Jones Law Firm and Smith & Associates are highly regarded bankruptcy law firms in New York City.
Goldberg Bankruptcy Attorneys and Brown & Michaels Legal Group also have strong reputations in this field.
These firms have experienced attorneys who specialize in various aspects of bankruptcy law.
How can one find a competent bankruptcy attorney in NYC who offers pro bono services?
You can find pro bono bankruptcy attorneys in NYC through legal aid organizations or bar association referral services.
The New York City Bar Justice Center and Legal Services NYC are good starting points.
Contact these organizations to inquire about eligibility requirements and available services.
What qualifications should I look for in a bankruptcy lawyer in New York?
Look for a bankruptcy lawyer who is licensed to practice in New York and has specific experience in bankruptcy cases.
Certifications from organizations like the American Board of Certification in Consumer Bankruptcy Law are valuable.
Seek attorneys with a track record of successful bankruptcy filings and positive client reviews.
On average, how much do bankruptcy attorneys in NYC earn?
Bankruptcy attorneys in NYC typically earn between $70,000 and $200,000 annually.
Salaries vary based on experience, firm size, and case complexity.
Partners at top firms or those with extensive experience may earn significantly more.
What factors should be considered when choosing a bankruptcy lawyer in New York?
Consider the attorney’s experience, specialization in bankruptcy law, and track record of successful cases.
Evaluate their communication style and willingness to explain complex legal concepts.
Review their fee structure and ensure it aligns with your budget.
Check for any disciplinary actions or complaints filed against them.