How To Choose The Best Brooklyn Bankruptcy Lawyer

Last updated on May 26, 2026

You likely already know you need professional legal help to file a bankruptcy petition for yourself or your business. Our team at the Law Office of Gregory Messer offers more than 45 years of experience supporting individuals in Brooklyn and Kings County through every step of the bankruptcy process. We can offer insight into state bankruptcy laws and how the local courts operate. But in case you’re considering filing without an attorney, consider this strong advice from the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts on behalf of the Federal Judiciary.

“Corporations and partnerships must have an attorney to file a bankruptcy case. Individuals, however, may represent themselves in bankruptcy court. While individuals can file a bankruptcy case without an attorney or “pro se,” it is extremely difficult to do it successfully. It is very important that a bankruptcy case be filed and handled correctly. The rules are very technical, and a misstep may affect a debtor’s rights. For example, a debtor whose case is dismissed for failure to file a required document, such as a credit counseling certificate, may lose the right to file another case or lose protections in a later case, including the benefit of the automatic stay. Bankruptcy has long-term financial and legal consequences — hiring a competent attorney is strongly recommended.”

Top Five Considerations When Hiring A Bankruptcy Attorney

You deserve a lawyer who not only understands bankruptcy laws but who has proven success protecting clients like you. When facing significant financial decisions, evaluating your attorney’s credentials and practice style is crucial.

Here are the five key factors you must consider to choose the best legal advocate for your financial future:

1. Law Firm Focus And Practice Areas

Many law firms offer bankruptcy services, but it is often just one service among many. If your legal needs are exclusively bankruptcy or its alternatives, why choose a firm whose expertise is divided among unrelated practice areas?

Choose a law firm whose primary focus – or better yet, whose exclusive focus – is bankruptcy and debt relief alternatives.

2. Bankruptcy Experience And Expertise

A top bankruptcy lawyer must not only have many years of experience but also be current with both federal and New York state bankruptcy laws. Legal precedent is made by judicial rulings (documented in reported case opinions) and by the federal Bankruptcy Code. It is important to choose an attorney who is both deeply experienced and knowledgeable.

A lawyer’s highest credentials are the most reliable indicators of their expertise:

• Board certification: Board-Certified in Consumer Bankruptcy Law, a voluntary distinction that requires substantial legal involvement, favorable peer review and passing a rigorous written examination.
• Trustee experience: Having served as a Panel Trustee in federal bankruptcy court gives an attorney an unparalleled insider’s view into how cases are reviewed, what leads to objections and how to structure a filing for maximum success.

This proven skills are essential to maximizing your debt relief and asset protection.

3. Top Reputation Among Peers

Other bankruptcy attorneys recognize the best bankruptcy attorneys. Look for a lawyer to represent you who is top-rated by his or her peers. Three reliable indicators are attorneys who are recognized as AV® Preeminent™ Peer Review Rated by Martindale-Hubbell®, listed in Super Lawyers and listed in the Bar Register of Preeminent Lawyers™.

4. Lowest Price Vs. Quality Of Service

Let’s face it, you’re already in financial distress, so a low-cost attorney might seem attractive. However, Brooklyn, the Bronx, Manhattan, Staten Island and Queens, consumers and businesses know that a low-cost lawyer may cost more in the long run. This happens if the attorney does not devote the necessary time to fully develop a bankruptcy petition or give due consideration to alternatives to avoid bankruptcy.

Do not choose your attorney based solely on price; seek the best attorney to provide you with quality, thorough service.

5. Office Location And Accessibility

While convenience is a factor, remember to keep it in perspective. Much of the interaction with your bankruptcy attorney can be handled by email, fax and telephone calls.

An office location convenient to public transportation and parking garages is a plus, but expertise should always remain your primary focus.

Does It Matter If My Lawyer Is A Bankruptcy Trustee?

Yes, it is highly beneficial to retain the support of a Brooklyn bankruptcy lawyer who has served as a bankruptcy trustee. An attorney who has worked for the bankruptcy courts understands how individual bankruptcy cases are evaluated and handled.

Trustees often oversee asset liquidation or repayment plans. Since their role is facilitating legal compliance, Attorney Messer’s background gives him invaluable insight that benefits those pursuing financial relief through bankruptcy.

What Is The Most Common Mistake People Make When Choosing A Bankruptcy Attorney?

The most common mistake when choosing a bankruptcy attorney is the decision to focus on price rather than qualifications and experience. When a lawyer who offers a broad range of services appears to be the most cost-effective option, it may lead to mediocre representation from an attorney with cursory knowledge of the Kings County bankruptcy process.

Selecting a lawyer with years of experience is one of the best ways to optimize bankruptcy filings and avoid common mistakes, such as failing to include eligible debts in the filing paperwork. Doing things right the first time can be more cost-effective than selecting an attorney with the lowest rates.

Attorney Gregory Messer served as a panel trustee for the Chapter 7 Trustee Panel in the Eastern and Southern districts of New York for three decades. That experience gives him profound insight into court operations during Chapter 7 bankruptcy proceedings and makes him an invaluable source of support for Brooklyn filers.

What Questions Should You Ask During A Free Consultation With A Brooklyn Bankruptcy Attorney?

Asking specific questions about your case and the policies of the attorney can help you make the best choice. Critical questions to ask include:

• What chapter of bankruptcy should I file?: Evaluating each option to see what works best for your case
• What debts can I discharge?: Validating what, if any, financial obligations may remain after bankruptcy
• Is my property vulnerable?: Checking for exemptions if asset liquidation is a concern
• Who will I speak with at your firm?: Ensuring proper communication practices can limit your stress
• What are your billing practices?: Determining the likely cost and whether they bill hourly or on a flat-rate basis

The answers to these questions can help you select the right Brooklyn bankruptcy lawyer.

Speak To A Top Brooklyn Bankruptcy Lawyer

If you are seeking a firm that meets these highest standards of specialization, experience and peer recognition, we invite you to contact us.

Contact the Law Office of Gregory Messer online or at 347-943-8475 to schedule a free initial consultation. Our office is located across the street from the U.S. District Bankruptcy Court in Brooklyn and is close to the Borough Hall and Court Street subway stations. We serve residents throughout Brooklyn, the Bronx, Manhattan, Staten Island and Queens.

To ensure every client’s filing receives the attention it deserves, we are an appointment-only law firm with flexible hours adjustable to fit your needs.

We are a debt relief agency. We help people file for bankruptcy relief under the Bankruptcy Code.