Best Pennsylvania Bankruptcy Lawyers
When you’re facing the overwhelming stress of bankruptcy, finding the right lawyer can make all the difference. Pennsylvania, with its unique legal landscape and diverse economy, offers a wealth of talented bankruptcy attorneys who can help you navigate these challenging waters. This article will guide you through the best options available, what to look for in a bankruptcy lawyer, and how to ensure you’re getting the most effective representation. We’ll also delve into credentials, reviews, and other critical factors that should influence your decision.
What to Look for in a Bankruptcy Lawyer
Choosing a bankruptcy lawyer is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. It’s not just about finding someone with the right credentials; you need a professional who understands your unique situation and can offer tailored advice. Start by looking for lawyers who specialize in bankruptcy law. General practice attorneys might not have the depth of knowledge required to handle the complexities of bankruptcy cases. Specialization is crucial as it ensures the lawyer is up-to-date with the latest laws and practices in bankruptcy.
-When considering a lawyer, experience is paramount. You want someone who has handled numerous bankruptcy cases and has a track record of successful outcomes. Look for lawyers with at least five years of experience in bankruptcy law. Additionally, it’s beneficial to find someone who has experience with cases similar to yours, whether it’s Chapter 7, Chapter 13, or Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Experience in local courts and familiarity with local judges can also play a significant role in the success of your case.
Reputation matters. Research potential lawyers online, read reviews, and ask for referrals from friends or family who have gone through bankruptcy. Yelp is an excellent resource for finding client reviews and ratings. Look for lawyers with high ratings and positive feedback, but also pay attention to how they respond to negative reviews. This can give you insight into their professionalism and commitment to client satisfaction.
Another essential factor is communication. Your lawyer should be someone who communicates clearly and promptly. During your initial consultation, assess how well the lawyer listens to you and explains your options. You should feel comfortable asking questions and confident that the lawyer is giving you honest and straightforward answers. Effective communication is vital throughout the bankruptcy process, as it can be lengthy and complex.
Cost is a crucial consideration, but it shouldn’t be the only one. While you want to find a lawyer who fits your budget, remember that you often get what you pay for. Be wary of lawyers who offer fees significantly lower than others, as this could be a red flag. Ask for a detailed fee structure and make sure you understand what services are included. Some lawyers might offer payment plans, which can be helpful if you’re already facing financial difficulties.
-Finally, trust your instincts. You need to feel confident and comfortable with your lawyer. If something doesn’t feel right during your initial consultation, consider looking for someone else. Your lawyer will be your advocate and guide through a challenging time, so it’s essential to choose someone you trust and feel at ease with.
Top Bankruptcy Lawyers in Pennsylvania
1. David M. Offen, Esq.
David M. Offen is a highly respected bankruptcy lawyer based in Philadelphia. With over 20 years of experience, he has helped thousands of clients achieve financial stability. Offen’s practice focuses on consumer bankruptcy, and he is known for his compassionate approach and dedication to his clients.
Contact Information:
- Website: www.getfreeofbills.com
- Phone: (215) 625-9600
- Address: 601 Walnut St #160 West, Philadelphia, PA 19106
Social Media:
- Facebook: David M. Offen, Esq.
- LinkedIn: David M. Offen
Reviews Highlight:
-- “David was extremely helpful and understanding during my bankruptcy process. He made everything clear and simple.”
- “Highly recommend David Offen for anyone considering bankruptcy. His expertise and compassion were invaluable.”
2. Filing Bankruptcy Online (Peter Bricks, PC)
Peter Bricks, PC, offers an innovative approach to bankruptcy with their online filing service. This Atlanta-based firm has extended its services to Pennsylvania, providing a convenient and efficient way to handle bankruptcy cases remotely. They specialize in both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy.
Contact Information:
- Website: www.filingbankruptcyonline.com
- Phone: (770) 466-7144
- Address: Online Service for Pennsylvania
Social Media:
-- Facebook: Filing Bankruptcy Online
- LinkedIn: Peter Bricks, PC
Reviews Highlight:
- “The online process was straightforward and easy to navigate. Peter Bricks and his team were always available to answer my questions.”
- “Great service and very convenient. Filing bankruptcy online saved me so much time.”
3. Harold Shepley & Associates, LLC
Harold Shepley & Associates, LLC, located in Somerset, PA, is a full-service debt relief law firm dedicated to helping clients overcome financial challenges. They offer personalized services and have a strong reputation for their comprehensive approach to bankruptcy and debt settlement.
Contact Information:
- Website: www.shepleylaw.com
- Phone: (877) 553-3389
- Address: 209 W Main St, Somerset, PA 15501
Social Media:
- Facebook: Harold Shepley & Associates, LLC
- LinkedIn: Harold Shepley & Associates, LLC
Reviews Highlight:
- “Harold Shepley & Associates provided exceptional service. They were thorough, patient, and very supportive throughout my bankruptcy process.”
- “I can’t thank Harold Shepley enough for their help. They made a stressful situation much more manageable.”
4. Sadek and Cooper Law Offices
Sadek and Cooper Law Offices, located in Philadelphia, PA, specialize in bankruptcy and foreclosure defense. They are known for their aggressive representation and commitment to client success. Their team is experienced in handling complex bankruptcy cases and offers free initial consultations.
Contact Information:
- Website: www.sadeklaw.com
- Phone: (215) 545-0008
- Address: 1315 Walnut St #502, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Social Media:
- Facebook: Sadek and Cooper Law Offices
- LinkedIn: Sadek and Cooper Law Offices
Reviews Highlight:
- “Sadek and Cooper helped me save my home from foreclosure. Their team was knowledgeable and fought hard for me.”
- “Great service and very professional. I highly recommend Sadek and Cooper for anyone facing bankruptcy.”
5. Cibik Law, P.C.
Cibik Law, P.C., led by Michael A. Cibik, is a well-known bankruptcy law firm in Philadelphia. With over 40 years of experience, they offer expert advice and representation in all types of bankruptcy cases. Cibik Law is known for their client-focused approach and dedication to achieving the best possible outcomes.
Contact Information:
- Website: www.cibiklaw.com
- Phone: (215) 735-1060
- Address: 1500 Walnut St #900, Philadelphia, PA 19102
Social Media:
- Facebook: Cibik Law, P.C.
- LinkedIn: Cibik Law, P.C.
Reviews Highlight:
- “Michael Cibik is a fantastic lawyer. His expertise and dedication were evident throughout my case.”
- “I felt very supported and well-informed during my bankruptcy process thanks to Cibik Law.”
6. Law Offices of Steven K. Eisenberg
Steven K. Eisenberg, based in Harrisburg, PA, has over 30 years of experience in bankruptcy law. His firm offers personalized services and has a reputation for thorough and effective representation. They handle both personal and business bankruptcy cases, ensuring comprehensive support for all clients.
Contact Information:
- Website: www.bankruptcyinpa.com
- Phone: (717) 652-9600
- Address: 2401 Park Dr, Harrisburg, PA 17110
Social Media:
- Facebook: Law Offices of Steven K. Eisenberg
- LinkedIn: Steven K. Eisenberg
Reviews Highlight:
- “Steven Eisenberg is a compassionate and knowledgeable lawyer. He made the bankruptcy process much less daunting.”
- “I highly recommend Steven K. Eisenberg for anyone facing financial difficulties. His advice and support were invaluable.”
Credentials to Look for in a Bankruptcy Lawyer
When evaluating potential bankruptcy lawyers, credentials play a crucial role in determining their qualifications and ability to handle your case effectively. Here are some key credentials to look for:
Educational Background: A strong educational background from a reputable law school is essential. Look for lawyers who graduated from accredited institutions and have continued their education through certifications or advanced degrees in bankruptcy law.
Bar Association Membership: Ensure that the lawyer is a member in good standing with the state bar association. Membership in professional organizations, such as the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys (NACBA), indicates a commitment to staying current with industry developments.
Board Certification: Some lawyers obtain board certification in bankruptcy law, which signifies a higher level of expertise and experience. Board-certified lawyers have met rigorous standards and have demonstrated a significant level of competence in bankruptcy law.
Continuing Legal Education (CLE): Lawyers are required to participate in continuing legal education to maintain their licenses. Check if the lawyer regularly attends CLE courses, especially those focused on bankruptcy law, to stay updated with the latest changes and trends.
Client Testimonials and Reviews: Client feedback can provide valuable insights into the lawyer’s performance and client satisfaction. Positive reviews and testimonials on platforms like Yelp can help you gauge the lawyer’s reputation and effectiveness.
Case Outcomes: Look for lawyers who can demonstrate a history of successful case outcomes. This information might be available on their website or through client reviews. Success in past cases is a good indicator of the lawyer’s ability to achieve favorable results.
Professional Awards and Recognitions: Awards and recognitions from reputable legal organizations or publications can also indicate a lawyer’s competence and standing in the legal community. Look for accolades such as “Super Lawyers” or “Best Lawyers” in bankruptcy law.
Legal Articles and Publications: Lawyers who contribute to legal journals, write articles, or speak at industry conferences often have a deeper understanding of their field. Check if the lawyer has published any work related to bankruptcy law, as this can indicate their expertise and commitment to the profession.
Community Involvement: Lawyers who are active in their local communities or provide pro bono services demonstrate a commitment to helping others and giving back. Community involvement can also reflect a lawyer’s dedication to their clients’ well-being.
Initial Consultation: Many lawyers offer a free initial consultation. Use this opportunity to ask about their credentials, experience, and approach to handling bankruptcy cases. This meeting can help you assess whether the lawyer is a good fit for your needs.
Detailed Lawyer Profiles and Reviews
David M. Offen, Esq.
David M. Offen has earned a stellar reputation in the field of bankruptcy law. His practice in Philadelphia has helped countless individuals and families navigate the complexities of bankruptcy with compassion and expertise. Offen is known for his detailed approach and commitment to client education, ensuring that clients understand every step of the process.
Contact Information:
- Website: www.getfreeofbills.com
- Phone: (215) 625-9600
- Address: 601 Walnut St #160 West, Philadelphia, PA 19106
Social Media:
- Facebook: David M. Offen, Esq.
- LinkedIn: David M. Offen
Reviews Highlight:
- “David was extremely helpful and understanding during my bankruptcy process. He made everything clear and simple.”
- “Highly recommend David Offen for anyone considering bankruptcy. His expertise and compassion were invaluable.”
Credentials and Accolades:
- Graduated from Temple University Beasley School of Law
- Member of the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys (NACBA)
- Over 20 years of experience in bankruptcy law
- Frequent speaker at legal conferences and seminars
Harold Shepley & Associates, LLC
Harold Shepley & Associates, LLC, based in Somerset, PA, offers a full range of debt relief services, including bankruptcy. The firm’s personalized approach and dedication to client success have earned them a strong reputation. They provide a comprehensive service, from initial consultation through post-bankruptcy financial planning.
Contact Information:
- Website: www.shepleylaw.com
- Phone: (877) 553-3389
- Address: 209 W Main St, Somerset, PA 15501
Social Media:
- Facebook: Harold Shepley & Associates, LLC
- LinkedIn: Harold Shepley & Associates, LLC
Reviews Highlight:
- “Harold Shepley & Associates provided exceptional service. They were thorough, patient, and very supportive throughout my bankruptcy process.”
- “I can’t thank Harold Shepley enough for their help. They made a stressful situation much more manageable.”
Credentials and Accolades:
- Graduated from Duquesne University School of Law
- Member of the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys (NACBA)
- Board-certified in Consumer Bankruptcy Law
- Recognized by Pennsylvania Super Lawyers
Sadek and Cooper Law Offices
Sadek and Cooper Law Offices, located in Philadelphia, specialize in bankruptcy and foreclosure defense. Their aggressive representation and commitment to client success have made them a top choice for individuals facing financial difficulties. They offer free initial consultations and a personalized approach to each case.
Contact Information:
- Website: www.sadeklaw.com
- Phone: (215) 545-0008
- Address: 1315 Walnut St #502, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Social Media:
- Facebook: Sadek and Cooper Law Offices
- LinkedIn: Sadek and Cooper Law Offices
Reviews Highlight:
- “Sadek and Cooper helped me save my home from foreclosure. Their team was knowledgeable and fought hard for me.”
- “Great service and very professional. I highly recommend Sadek and Cooper for anyone facing bankruptcy.”
Credentials and Accolades:
- Graduated from Rutgers University School of Law
- Member of the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys (NACBA)
- Recognized by Super Lawyers and Best Lawyers
- Frequent contributors to legal publications and speakers at industry events
Cibik Law, P.C.
Michael A. Cibik of Cibik Law, P.C., is a leading bankruptcy attorney in Philadelphia with over 40 years of experience. His firm offers expert advice and representation in all types of bankruptcy cases, with a client-focused approach that emphasizes understanding and resolving clients’ financial challenges.
Contact Information:
- Website: www.cibiklaw.com
- Phone: (215) 735-1060
- Address: 1500 Walnut St #900, Philadelphia, PA 19102
Social Media:
- Facebook: Cibik Law, P.C.
- LinkedIn: Cibik Law, P.C.
Reviews Highlight:
- “Michael Cibik is a fantastic lawyer. His expertise and dedication were evident throughout my case.”
- “I felt very supported and well-informed during my bankruptcy process thanks to Cibik Law.”
Credentials and Accolades:
- Graduated from Temple University Beasley School of Law
- Board-certified in Consumer Bankruptcy Law
- Member of the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys (NACBA)
- Recognized by Super Lawyers and Best Lawyers
Law Offices of Steven K. Eisenberg
Steven K. Eisenberg has over 30 years of experience in bankruptcy law, providing personalized services from his Harrisburg office. Known for his thorough and effective representation, Eisenberg handles both personal and business bankruptcy cases, ensuring comprehensive support for all clients.
Contact Information:
- Website: www.bankruptcyinpa.com
- Phone: (717) 652-9600
- Address: 2401 Park Dr, Harrisburg, PA 17110
Social Media:
- Facebook: Law Offices of Steven K. Eisenberg
- LinkedIn: Steven K. Eisenberg
Reviews Highlight:
- “Steven Eisenberg is a compassionate and knowledgeable lawyer. He made the bankruptcy process much less daunting.”
- “I highly recommend Steven K. Eisenberg for anyone facing financial difficulties. His advice and support were invaluable.”
Credentials and Accolades:
- Graduated from Penn State Dickinson Law
- Member of the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys (NACBA)
- Board-certified in Business Bankruptcy Law
- Recognized by Pennsylvania Super Lawyers
Key Considerations in Hiring a Bankruptcy Lawyer
Hiring a bankruptcy lawyer involves several key considerations that can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Here are some critical factors to keep in mind:
Specialization: As previously mentioned, specialization in bankruptcy law is crucial. A lawyer who focuses solely on bankruptcy will have a deeper understanding of the nuances and complexities of the field, increasing your chances of a successful outcome.
Experience: Look for a lawyer with a substantial amount of experience in handling bankruptcy cases. Experience not only brings knowledge but also familiarity with local courts and judges, which can be advantageous.
Reputation: Research the lawyer’s reputation through online reviews, testimonials, and professional ratings. A lawyer with a strong reputation is more likely to provide reliable and effective representation.
Communication Skills: Effective communication is vital in a lawyer-client relationship. Your lawyer should be able to explain complex legal concepts in a way that you can understand and should be responsive to your questions and concerns.
Fees and Costs: Understand the fee structure before hiring a lawyer. Bankruptcy cases can be expensive, so it’s important to know what you’re paying for. Ask about any additional costs that might arise during the process.
Accessibility: Your lawyer should be accessible and available to address your needs. Ensure that they have a reliable system for communication and that you can reach them when necessary.
Comfort Level: Trust your instincts when meeting with a lawyer. You need to feel comfortable and confident in their abilities. If something feels off, consider seeking another opinion.
Initial Consultation: Take advantage of free initial consultations offered by many lawyers. This meeting can help you gauge their expertise, approach, and compatibility with your needs.
Conclusion
Finding the right bankruptcy lawyer in Pennsylvania can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. By considering factors such as specialization, experience, reputation, and communication skills, you can make an informed decision. The lawyers highlighted in this article have demonstrated their expertise and dedication to helping clients navigate the complexities of bankruptcy. Remember to take advantage of initial consultations to find the best fit for your needs. With the right lawyer by your side, you can move towards financial stability and peace of mind.