Best Philadelphia Bankruptcy Attorneys
in 2025 
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Paul Young Young, Marr & Associates |
Call Today 215-607-2715 |
View Profile |
Our Selection Process
Attorney at Law Magazine seeks to provide consumers with a go-to list of top attorneys for their legal needs. To that end, we require all listed attorneys meet the following qualifications. The attorney must have an active license to practice law in all the states in which they are listed; the attorney must have no history of disciplinary action or criminal history; the attorney must have a minimum of five years in the practice of law; and the attorney must have a minimum of a 4+ star consumer rating. Each listing provides an at-a-glance look at some of the attorney’s top cases as well as some of the other attributes that distinguish them from their peers. If you believe any attorney listed does not meet these qualifications, please notify us via email at [email protected].
How to Select the Best Bankruptcy Attorney
Step 1: Look for Experience in Bankruptcy Law
Not all attorneys are well-versed in bankruptcy law, so it’s essential to choose a lawyer with extensive experience handling Chapter 7, Chapter 13, or business bankruptcy cases. A knowledgeable bankruptcy attorney in will understand state and federal bankruptcy laws, help you navigate court procedures, and provide strategic advice based on your financial situation. Look for an attorney who has successfully handled cases similar to yours and who is familiar with local bankruptcy courts.
Step 2: Check Credentials and Reputation
Before hiring an attorney, verify their credentials and reputation. Confirm that they are licensed by your state bar. Further, check if they are members of any professional organizations or sections like the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys (NACBA). Additionally, read online reviews and client testimonials to learn about their track record, communication skills, and professionalism. A good Philadelphia bankruptcy attorney should have positive feedback and a history of satisfied clients.
Step 3: Schedule a Consultation and Ask Questions
Most bankruptcy attorneys in Philadelphia offer free or low-cost consultations, which allow you to evaluate their skills and approach. During the consultation, ask important questions such as: What type of bankruptcy is best for my situation? What are the total costs and legal fees involved? How will you guide me through the bankruptcy process?
Pay attention to how well they explain the process and whether they listen to your concerns. A reasonable attorney should provide clear, honest answers and make you feel comfortable with your decision.
Step 4: Compare Fees and Payment Plans
Bankruptcy can be costly, so it’s essential to choose an attorney who is transparent about their fees and offers a reasonable payment plan if needed. While you shouldn’t base your decision solely on price, avoid attorneys who charge suspiciously low fees or those who don’t provide a clear breakdown of costs. Choose a lawyer who offers fair pricing and flexible payment options while ensuring quality legal representation.
Recommendations While You Wait to Connect to an Attorney
- Gather Your Financial Documents: Start by organizing all important financial records, including pay stubs, tax returns (for at least two years), bank statements, credit card bills, loan documents, and any collection notices. These documents will help your attorney assess your financial situation and determine which bankruptcy chapter is best for you.
- List All Debts and Creditors: Create a detailed list of all your debts, including credit card balances, medical bills, personal loans, mortgages, and auto loans. Include the names of creditors, outstanding balances, and interest rates. This information is essential for filing accurate bankruptcy paperwork.
- Track Your Monthly Income and Expenses: Bankruptcy courts require a breakdown of your monthly income and living expenses, such as rent, utilities, groceries, and insurance payments. Keeping a record of your spending will help your attorney determine if you qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy or if Chapter 13 repayment is a better option.
- Avoid Making Large Financial Transactions: Do not transfer assets, withdraw retirement funds, or pay off large debts while waiting to speak with a Philadelphia bankruptcy lawyer. These actions can raise red flags and complicate your case.
- Stop Using Credit Cards: If you plan to file for bankruptcy, stop using your credit cards immediately. Racking up additional debt before filing may be considered fraudulent activity, and those charges could be excluded from discharge.
- Avoid Paying Off Certain Debts: It may be tempting to pay off specific debts before filing, but this could be a mistake. The bankruptcy court may view preferential payments as unfair to other creditors, potentially requiring you to return payments made within 90 days before filing.
- Research Your Bankruptcy Options: Take the time to educate yourself on the different types of bankruptcy—Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 are the most common for individuals. Chapter 7 allows for the discharge of most unsecured debts, while Chapter 13 involves a structured repayment plan. Having a basic understanding of these options will make your initial consultation with a bankruptcy lawyer in Philadelphia more productive.
- Stay Current on Essential Bills: While some debts will be discharged in bankruptcy, others—such as rent, utilities, car payments, and child support—will still need to be paid. Keeping up with these obligations will help you avoid unnecessary complications when filing.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What Are the Different Types of Bankruptcy?
The two most common types of bankruptcy for individuals are Chapter 7 and Chapter 13. Chapter 7 allows you to eliminate most unsecured debts, such as credit card balances and medical bills, but may require you to liquidate certain assets to repay creditors. Chapter 13, on the other hand, involves a repayment plan that allows you to keep your assets while paying off debts over three to five years.
- Will Bankruptcy Eliminate All My Debts?
Bankruptcy can discharge many unsecured debts, such as credit cards, medical bills, and personal loans. However, some debts cannot be discharged, including student loans, child support, alimony, and most tax debts. Secured debts, such as car loans and mortgages, may still need to be repaid if you wish to keep the property.
- How Will Filing for Bankruptcy Affect My Credit?
Bankruptcy will impact your credit score and stay on your credit report for up to 10 years (Chapter 7) or seven years (Chapter 13). However, many people see their credit improve within a few years after filing, as bankruptcy can help eliminate overwhelming debt and allow for a fresh financial start.
- Will I Lose My House or Car If I File for Bankruptcy?
It depends on the type of bankruptcy and the equity in your property. In Chapter 7, you may be able to keep your home or car if you are current on payments and the asset is protected under state exemptions. In Chapter 13, you can keep secured assets by continuing payments under a structured repayment plan.
- Can Filing for Bankruptcy Stop Creditors from Harassing Me?
Yes. Once you file for bankruptcy, an automatic stay goes into effect, which prohibits creditors from calling, sending collection letters, or pursuing lawsuits against you. This protection remains in place throughout the bankruptcy process.