What makes bankruptcy representation different
A bankruptcy litigation firm works in a court with its own procedures, deadlines, and rules about who may represent whom. In a Chapter 11 case, the debtor's counsel generally needs court approval and must meet disinterestedness standards. Individual creditors and asset buyers hire counsel more freely, while trustees and official committees also need court approval, and conflicts checks matter for everyone because the same parties often appear across many cases. Fees paid from a Chapter 11 estate are typically subject to court review. Individual debtors in Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 hire counsel without a separate employment order, but the compensation still has to be disclosed to the court. Knowing which role you hold shapes what kind of representation you need.
Questions worth asking
Ask who will handle your matter day to day and how often they appear in bankruptcy court. Ask how fees are structured, whether a budget is realistic for your dispute, and how costs change if the matter goes to trial. Find out whether the firm has existing relationships with other parties in the case that could create conflicts. Ask how the firm communicates with clients when deadlines are approaching, and whether it usually represents debtors, creditors, or both. If your matter involves cross-border issues, such as Korean assets or a foreign insolvency proceeding, ask about that experience directly.
Working with our team
SJKP LAW FIRM LLP represents clients in bankruptcy-related disputes in New York. We begin with a conflicts check and a review of the court filings, then identify the deadlines and the decisions you need to make first. We discuss realistic costs and how the dispute might be resolved, whether by settlement, motion practice, or trial. We cannot predict how a judge will rule, but we can explain what the court is likely to consider. We also explain early how the work will be staffed and who your contact will be. If another firm would be a better fit, we will say so.
