At Anderson, Bowman, Wallshein PLLC, we understand the financial stress and uncertainty that accompany the decision to file for bankruptcy. Serving the New York metropolitan area, including Long Island and Queens, we provide personalized legal guidance tailored to your unique financial situation. Our skilled attorneys offer bankruptcy services in New York across various bankruptcy chapters and processes to help you regain financial stability with confidence.
We believe that financial difficulties require more than just legal intervention—they demand empathy and understanding. Our first step is always to listen. By taking the time to understand your circumstances and goals, we can craft a legal strategy that goes beyond simply responding to your immediate needs. It lays the groundwork for a more secure financial future, offering solutions that transition smoothly from immediate relief to long-term stability.
When you contact us about bankruptcy, you can generally expect the following steps:
Initial information review. We ask about your income, debts, assets, and any pending lawsuits or foreclosure notices so we can quickly assess whether bankruptcy may be an option.
Document collection and analysis. We review pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements, leases, and mortgage documents to form a clear, accurate picture of your finances.
Chapter comparison and recommendation. We explain how Chapter 7, Chapter 11, and Chapter 13 work in New York and discuss which filing best matches your goals and risk tolerance.
Filing and follow-through. Once a path is chosen, we prepare the petition and schedules, guide you through required courses and meetings, and keep you updated as your case proceeds.
Get our bankruptcy services in New York today. Give us a call at (929) 590-5053 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.
Understanding Local Bankruptcy Laws & Procedures in New York
Bankruptcy laws vary by state, and in New York, the process involves specific regulations and procedural steps. Our firm is well-versed in New York's bankruptcy code, helping our clients navigate the legal landscape effectively. The procedures typically involve gathering comprehensive financial documentation, meeting state-specific criteria, and interacting with the New York bankruptcy courts.
Given the complexity of New York's legal standards, we prioritize keeping our clients informed at every stage of the process. Understanding the nuances of local laws not only equips you with knowledge but also empowers you to make informed decisions throughout your bankruptcy journey. By comprehensively managing each aspect—from detailed financial analyses to court representations—we work diligently to streamline your way back to financial health. Our legal team uses well-established relationships within local courts to help your case be seen and processed efficiently.
When we prepare a case, we also pay close attention to how New York exemptions, local filing rules, and trustee practices interact with your overall financial picture. For example, practice in the Eastern and Southern Districts can differ in scheduling, trustee expectations, and how documentation is reviewed, so we adapt our approach to the specific courthouse handling your matter. By aligning your paperwork, timing, and strategy with these local expectations, we help reduce avoidable delays, minimize the risk of objections, and aim to keep your case moving forward in a steady, predictable way.
Key Considerations for New York Bankruptcy Filers
Means Test: In New York, you must pass a means test to qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. This test compares your income to the state median income level.
Court Communication: New York's bankruptcy courts, located in districts covering Queens and Long Island, require specific documentation and follow-up communication throughout the process.
Exemptions: The state offers certain exemptions that allow you to keep specific property types. Our attorneys will guide you through understanding which assets are protected.
The Approach to Your Case From Our Bankruptcy Services in New York
We pride ourselves on a compassionate approach, recognizing the emotional toll that financial difficulties can take. Our process begins with a detailed consultation to assess your financial circumstances and determine the most suitable filing option—whether that is Chapter 7, Chapter 11, or Chapter 13 bankruptcy.
We focus on creating a strategic plan to alleviate your debt while preserving as many of your assets as possible. Our personalized bankruptcy services in New York help you remain fully informed and comfortable throughout every step of the process.
Our commitment extends beyond legal representation; we view our role as a supportive partner in our clients' journey toward financial recovery. Through consistent communication and methodical planning, we work to simplify complex procedures, allowing you to focus on rebuilding and moving forward. We have honed our approach over years of practice by learning from each client's distinct experience, so every strategy is tailored to their precise needs. Read some testimonials from some of our clients.
As we design your plan, we also look carefully at how your debts and assets relate to your home, any investment property, or co-op interests you hold in places like Queens or Long Island. For many clients, the central question is not only how to discharge debt, but how to protect equity, deal with arrears, or address a pending foreclosure at the same time. By coordinating bankruptcy options with any ongoing or potential real estate litigation, we can help you evaluate whether a particular filing will support your broader goals for keeping or selling property, restructuring a mortgage, or resolving disputes with lenders.
Effective Debt Resolution Strategies
Alternative Dispute Resolution: Whenever possible, we aim to resolve issues through cost-effective ADR methods to minimize expenses and reduce stress.
Client Education: We believe in empowering our clients, providing detailed explanations of their options and the potential impact on their financial future.
Customized Plans: Each bankruptcy case demands a customized approach. Our attorneys meticulously craft plans that account for every aspect of your financial landscape, helping provide comprehensive coverage and pursue optimal results.
Proactive Communication: We foster transparent communication lines, offering regular updates and remaining available to answer questions or address concerns.
How Bankruptcy Interacts With Your Home And Real Estate
For many people in the New York metropolitan area, the primary concern in any bankruptcy filing is what will happen to their home or other real estate. Property values, mortgage balances, and local housing pressures in places like Queens, Brooklyn, and Nassau County mean that even a modest home can represent a lifetime of work and savings. When we evaluate whether bankruptcy is right for you, we look closely at how your filing could protect, restructure, or, in some cases, facilitate the sale of real estate so you can move forward on the best possible footing.
A key part of this analysis is understanding how exemptions apply to your residence, any rental units, and co-ops or condos that are common throughout New York City and Long Island. We review how much equity you have, how far behind you may be on mortgage payments, and whether there are any pending foreclosure actions in courts such as the Supreme Court of Queens County. By putting this information side by side with your income and other debts, we can explain whether a Chapter 7 discharge, a Chapter 13 repayment plan, or another approach aligns with your goals for keeping or transitioning out of a particular property.
In addition to your main residence, we also consider how bankruptcy might affect investment properties, inherited homes, or mixed-use buildings that combine residential and commercial space. These situations can raise unique issues, such as landlord-tenant obligations, association dues, tax liens, or pending real estate litigation that may already be on the docket in local courts. We walk you through how different chapters treat these obligations, what filings may pause or slow collection activity, and which choices give you the most control over timing a sale, negotiating with lenders, or winding down an investment in an orderly way.
Coordinating Bankruptcy With Foreclosure And Lender Actions
When a foreclosure action has already started, timing and coordination become especially important. Homeowners in Queens, Long Island, and the broader New York metro area often receive court notices, lender letters, and calls from servicers at the same time they are weighing bankruptcy. We help you understand how your potential filing fits into the existing foreclosure timeline, including any appearances or conferences scheduled in the New York State Supreme Court where your property is located.
One of the first decisions is whether a bankruptcy filing could provide breathing room or a more structured path to address mortgage arrears. In some cases, a repayment plan may allow you to catch up on missed payments over time while resolving unsecured debts in the same proceeding. In others, we may discuss whether it is more practical to use the process to manage a transition out of the property while minimizing deficiency exposure and positioning you for a financial reset. Because our practice also handles real estate litigation, we are able to identify when parallel negotiations or court motions in the foreclosure case may complement your bankruptcy strategy.
We also pay attention to the behavior of institutional lenders and loan servicers who operate heavily in the New York metropolitan area. Large banks and mortgage companies often have internal guidelines about when to pursue foreclosure sales, how they respond to court-ordered settlement conferences, and what documentation they expect from borrowers. By anticipating these patterns and preparing your file accordingly, we work to reduce avoidable surprises, improve the quality of information before the court, and give you a clearer picture of the likely paths ahead so you can make decisions with more confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the First Step in Filing for Bankruptcy in New York?
The initial step in filing for bankruptcy is to gather and organize your financial documents, including income statements, debt records, and any relevant legal paperwork. Once these are compiled, scheduling a consultation with our attorneys at Anderson, Bowman, Wallshein PLLC will provide the guidance necessary to determine your eligibility and the most suitable bankruptcy chapter for your situation.
In addition to document preparation, we suggest creating a detailed checklist of financial assets and liabilities. This proactive measure contributes to streamlined case handling and gives our legal team the comprehensive insights required to propose the most effective strategies for your situation.
Can I Keep My Home & Car If I File for Bankruptcy in New York?
New York offers several exemptions that may allow you to retain certain properties, including your home and car, depending on your specific situation and choices within the bankruptcy process. Our attorneys will help you understand how these exemptions apply and work to preserve your assets as much as possible.
Our priority is to safeguard what you value most while guiding you through the nuances of state-specific bankruptcy regulations. By creating personalized strategies grounded in a deep understanding of exemption laws, we focus on maintaining your standard of living wherever possible.
How Long Does the Bankruptcy Process Take in New York?
The timeline for bankruptcy can vary depending on the chapter under which you file. Typically, Chapter 7 bankruptcy might take around four to six months, while Chapter 13 can last from three to five years, as it involves a repayment plan. Our team at Anderson, Bowman, Wallshein PLLC will keep you informed and guide you through each step of the timeline.
Timelines are more than just dates; they are opportunities for strategic planning and intentional actions. As part of our service, we outline every milestone, adjusting as necessary to accommodate any developments or complexities in your case.
Will Bankruptcy Eliminate All My Debts?
Bankruptcy can discharge many types of unsecured debts, such as credit card balances and medical bills. However, some debts, including certain taxes, student loans, and child support obligations, generally cannot be discharged. Our attorneys will review your debt situation and provide clarity on what filing can achieve for you.
Our role is not limited to bankruptcy filing; we are here to demystify the process and add clarity to your unique financial relief journey. With a comprehensive analysis of each debt category, we outline potential post-bankruptcy paths and financial strategies that align with your long-term goals.
How Will Bankruptcy Affect My Credit Score?
Filing for bankruptcy can impact your credit score, often reducing it initially. However, it also offers a fresh financial start and the opportunity to rebuild credit over time. We offer post-bankruptcy strategies to help you improve your credit score and regain a sense of financial control.
Your credit score represents more than just numbers; it reflects your financial health and future possibilities. We offer dedicated sessions on managing finances post-bankruptcy, empowering you with actionable steps to rebuild and enhance your credit profile.
Secure Your Financial Future with Anderson, Bowman, Wallshein PLLC
Facing bankruptcy can feel overwhelming, but Anderson, Bowman, Wallshein PLLC is here to help you through the process with professionalism and empathy. Our attorneys are committed to finding the best possible solutions for your unique financial challenges, supporting your peace of mind. By choosing us, you gain a long-term legal partner focused on your financial future.
We recognize that taking the first step is often the hardest part of the journey. Our initial consultation is designed to be an open, non-judgmental space where you can explore your options without obligation or pressure. Trust us to provide the guidance you need to move forward with confidence.
When you contact us, we take time to understand how your debts, income, and property fit together, including any home or rental property you own in Queens or elsewhere in the New York metropolitan area. Many clients come to us after receiving a foreclosure notice or struggling with mortgage arrears, and they need to know how bankruptcy interacts with those real estate concerns. By reviewing your full financial and property profile at the outset, we can discuss which paths are available, what tradeoffs each option may involve, and how those choices may affect your day-to-day life and long-term stability.
Not sure where to start? Get a free consultation with our experienced attorneys to discuss your legal needs. We’ll provide you with clear guidance and expert advice, with no obligation.
“SBAGK’s team delivered exceptional knowledge and support throughout my partition proceeding. Grateful for their clear guidance and highly recommend them!”
John O.
“Above and Beyond Bankruptcy Support”
“Attorney Anderson and Zalewski provided compassionate, professional guidance, turning a daunting bankruptcy process into a success. Highly recommended for all bankruptcy needs!”
George T.
“Sincere, Straightforward & Honest”
“It is so rare to meet attorneys with such care and focus on the case along with the high ethics and moral values!”
Yuliya T.
“Fast, Professional Service for Complex Business Matters”
“Mr. Alexander Kadochnikov provided expert guidance and thorough support, making a complex business transaction seamless and ensuring my best interests every step of the way.”
Sergiy K.
“Highly Recommend to Anyone”
“Mr. Bowman was able to resolve my matter very quickly. Kept me up to speed with everything going on.”
Mohammad R.
“Professional & Thorough”
“Dustin Bowman’s intelligence and professionalism did not fail. His calmness and keen sense of knowledge helped to ease my stressor during this process, and all three cases were successful!”
