Looking for a bankruptcy attorney in Boston? Below: vetted firms covering downtown, Back Bay, Cambridge, and the I-95 belt, real MA cost ranges for flat fee representation, and what MA law actually says about your situation. Most firms offer a free initial consultation.
7 vetted firms in Boston handle bankruptcy cases. The shortlist below is editor-picked based on practice-area concentration, ratings, and client feedback.
Costs in Boston run roughly 30% above the national average — premium urban market with higher rents and salaries.
Fee structure: Chapter 7 is usually paid up front before filing. Chapter 13 attorney fees can be paid through the repayment plan.
Typical range: $1,500-$3,500 Chapter 7; $3,500-$6,000 Chapter 13.
Up-front cost: Filing fee + attorney fee.
For a fuller breakdown of how lawyers actually price work across all 30 legal needs we cover, see our cost guide. The numbers above are 2026 averages; your specific quote will depend on the firm's experience level, the complexity of your case, and the firm's caseload at the moment you call.
Two ways to keep costs down in any Boston bankruptcy matter: (1) come prepared to the first meeting with a one-page summary of facts, dates, and dollar amounts; (2) ask for a flat fee where one is offered — it removes the lawyer's incentive to take longer than necessary.
Statute of limitations: varies — ask a local attorney. This is when you have to file by — not when you have to settle by.
Court system: local trial court.
Fault rules: varies.
Damage caps: varies.
One thing to know: Bankruptcy cases are governed primarily by MA state statutes and case law. Ask the firm you call about applicable deadlines on your specific situation.
This page is a starting point, not a substitute for advice that applies to your specific situation. For that, talk to a licensed MA attorney — most of the firms above offer a free initial consultation for Boston residents.
Most people hire a bankruptcy lawyer in Boston after one of these triggers:
If any of these match what's happening to you, get a free consultation booked this week. Waiting rarely improves the case and often hurts it — evidence fades, witnesses move, and statute-of-limitations clocks keep running.
Chapter 7 wipes most unsecured debt in 4-6 months but requires passing a means test. Chapter 13 reorganizes debt over 3-5 years and lets you keep assets like a house with mortgage arrears.
Usually not. MA exemptions protect a certain amount of home equity. In Chapter 13 you can also catch up on missed mortgage payments through the repayment plan.
Chapter 7 stays on your credit report for 10 years; Chapter 13 for 7. Most people see credit recover within 12-24 months and qualify for a mortgage 2-4 years after discharge.
If you're current on the loan, usually yes. Either you reaffirm the debt (Chapter 7) or include it in the plan (Chapter 13).
Most student loans, recent tax debt, child support and alimony, court-ordered restitution, debts from fraud or DUI judgments. Credit cards, medical bills, and most other unsecured debt can be discharged.
Bankruptcy elsewhere: Bankruptcy lawyers in New YorkBankruptcy lawyers in PhiladelphiaBankruptcy lawyers in Los Angeles
Other Boston legal needs: Personal Injury lawyers in BostonDivorce lawyers in BostonCriminal Defense / DUI lawyers in Boston
Background reading: Bankruptcy guide · All Boston firms · Top 10 Bankruptcy firms in Boston (full editorial picks) · How to compare law firms · Legal glossary
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