The best bankruptcy lawyers in Chicago in 2026 include David M. Siegel & Associates and Leeders Law for consumer Chapter 7 and 13 cases, Lorraine M. Greenberg & Associates and Thurston Law Firm for downtown practices, Gregory K. Stern for small business reorganizations, and Wonais Law and DebtStoppers for several Chicago-area locations.
| Firm | Office | Focus | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. David M. Siegel & Associates | South Side | Chapter 7 and 13 | South Side and north-suburban consumers |
| 2. Leeders Law | The Loop | Chapter 7, 13 and ticket debt | People with Chicago ticket debt |
| 3. Lorraine M. Greenberg & Associates | The Loop | Chapter 7 and 13 | Individuals, families and small businesses |
| 4. Thurston Law Firm | The Loop | Chapter 7 and 13 | Clients who prefer one lawyer |
| 5. Gregory K. Stern, P.C. | The Loop | Chapter 7, 11, 13 and Subchapter V | Small business owners |
| 6. Wonais Law | South Side | Chapter 7, 13 and garnishment | South Side and western suburbs clients |
| 7. DebtStoppers | River North | Consumer bankruptcy | Clients who want a nearby office |
Bankruptcy cases here are filed in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Illinois. Chapter 7 wipes out many debts in a matter of months, and Chapter 13 sets a three- to five-year repayment plan that can help you catch up on a home or car. Filing generally stops most collection activity right away, including wage garnishment and many foreclosures. Federal law requires credit counseling before you file.
Long-time consumer bankruptcy lawyer with low fees and payment plans.
David M. Siegel says he has practiced since 1991 and advertises low fees and payment plans. His offices are on South Western Avenue and in Wheeling.
Good to know: Bring recent pay stubs, your tax return and a list of debts.
10540 S Western Ave, Suite 202, Chicago, IL 60643
Dedicated page on the Chicago ticket program.
Leeders Law says it has helped clients with Chapter 7 and 13 since 1998 and has a dedicated page on the Chicago ticket program. It lists several city locations, including the Loop, Portage Park, O'Hare and Hyde Park.
Good to know: It offers a free quote and consultation. Ask about all fees.
205 W Randolph St, Suite 1401, Chicago, IL 60606
A downtown consumer practice with free evaluations.
Lorraine M. Greenberg & Associates represents individuals, families and small businesses in Chapter 7 and 13, from North LaSalle Street, and offers a free case evaluation.
Good to know: If your wages are being garnished, tell them right away.
180 N LaSalle St, Suite 3700, Chicago, IL 60601
A practice focused on seeing a case from start to finish.
Thurston Law Firm says it handles Chapter 7 and 13 from start to finish, with attorney Christine Thurston at the front of the firm. Its West Jackson office is close to the bankruptcy court.
Good to know: Ask who will attend your meeting of creditors.
141 W Jackson Blvd, Suite 2800, Chicago, IL 60604
One of the few consumer practices that also works on business reorganizations.
Gregory K. Stern, P.C. handles Chapter 7, 11 and 13 and foreclosure defense, and has published material on Subchapter V, the small business reorganization process.
Good to know: Bring your business's financials and tax returns.
53 W Jackson Blvd, Suite 1442, Chicago, IL 60604
South Side office with a Lisle location.
Wonais Law, also known as Chicago Debt Pros, has a South Western Avenue office and one in Lisle, with a focus on Chapter 7, Chapter 13 and stopping wage garnishment.
Good to know: Bring any court papers you've received from creditors.
11070 S Western Ave, Suite 9, Chicago, IL 60643
A larger firm with many Chicago-area offices.
DebtStoppers is a multi-state consumer bankruptcy firm with offices in River North, on the South Side and in Naperville and Highland Park, and it helps with wage garnishment and foreclosure problems.
Good to know: Ask which lawyer will handle your case at a larger firm.
414 N Orleans St, Suite 810, Chicago, IL 60654
Chapter 7 is a faster liquidation that discharges many unsecured debts, and you must pass a means test. Chapter 13 is a repayment plan over three to five years that can help you keep a home or car while you catch up. A lawyer will compare them on your numbers.
Fees vary, and Chapter 13 fees can often be paid through the plan. The court filing fee is separate. Ask for the total, in writing, and what it covers. Federal law requires bankruptcy lawyers to give you a written contract.
Filing generally triggers an automatic stay that stops most collection, including wage garnishment. There are exceptions, such as certain support obligations and government proceedings. Ask how it applies to your debts.
Chapter 13 has been widely used for Chicago ticket debt, and it can allow you to get a booted or impounded car back. Rules and city programs change, so ask a lawyer for current practice. Leeders Law has a page on this.