Bankruptcy Lawyer in Southern California

Clear, Experienced Guidance Through the Bankruptcy Process

  • Highly Rated Everywhere

  • Helped Hundreds of Clients

  • Over 45 Years of Experience

Get Your Free One-on-One Consultation

Bankruptcy Lawyer in Southern California

Clear, Experienced Guidance Through the Bankruptcy Process

✔ Highly Rated Everywhere

✔ Helped Hundreds of Clients

✔ Over 45 Years of Experience

Logo Showing An Average of 5 Star Rating On Google
Nevada Justice Association Logo
Avvo 5 Star Rating
Martindale Hubbell Preeminent
American Bar Association Logo
American Bar Association
Martidale Hubbell Client Champion
Martidale Hubbell Preeminent
Avvo 5 Star Rating
California Board of Legal Specialization
Avvo 10.0 Rating

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Why Choose Michael E. Plotkin, Attorney at Law?

Extensive Experience: Attorney Plotkin brings over 45 years of legal experience, with more than 25 years focused on bankruptcy law.

Personalized Attention: Every client works directly with Attorney Plotkin. Your case is never handed off to a paralegal or junior associate.

Thorough, Detail-Focused Representation: Each case is carefully prepared with close attention to your financial situation, available options, and long-term goals.

Michael Elliott Plotkin Portrait

"Great and reliable Bankruptcy Attorney. He deals with clients effectively, efficiently and honesty. Attorney Plotkin is a big help in our cases and his willingness to resolve our cases makes our life now more peaceful. I recommend him 100%. Thank you Attorney Plotkin." - Jacqueline Garcia.

Why Choose Michael E. Plotkin, Attorney at Law?

Extensive Experience: Attorney Plotkin brings over 45 years of legal experience, with more than 25 years focused on bankruptcy law.

Personalized Attention: Every client works directly with Attorney Plotkin. Your case is never handed off to a paralegal or junior associate.

Thorough, Detail-Focused Representation: Each case is carefully prepared with close attention to your financial situation, available options, and long-term goals.

Talk to a Bankruptcy Lawyer Today

Click Below and Schedule a Free One-on-One Consultation

Talk to a Bankruptcy Lawyer Today

Call Us Now for a Free One-on-One Consultation

Meet Our Attorney

Michael Elliott Plotkin Portrait

Michael Elliott Plotkin

Michael E. Plotkin is a bankruptcy attorney with decades of experience helping individuals and families navigate financial challenges.

He is a seasoned lawyer, bringing a steady and practical approach to his work with over 45 years of legal experience, including more than 25 years focused on bankruptcy law.

Before concentrating his practice on bankruptcy matters, Michael served for 27 years in the U.S. Army and Army Reserves, retiring with the rank of Colonel.

This background, combined with his extensive legal experience, allows him to approach each case with discipline, careful preparation, and personal attention, guiding clients through the bankruptcy process with clarity and honesty.

Very professional and knows exactly what he's doing - Angel A's Experience:

"It's one of the hardest decisions to file for BK and it's even harder after you decide to file.

Honestly I was lost and had no idea where to start or if I can even complete all my paperwork.

Michael helped me and took the load off and made the process so easy and affordable.

I highly recommend him, very professional and knows exactly what he's doing. Thank you Michael!"

Meet Our Attorney

Michael Elliott Plotkin

Michael E. Plotkin is a bankruptcy attorney with decades of experience helping individuals and families navigate financial challenges.

He is a seasoned lawyer, bringing a steady and practical approach to his work with over 45 years of legal experience, including more than 25 years focused on bankruptcy law.

Before concentrating his practice on bankruptcy matters, Michael served for 27 years in the U.S. Army and Army Reserves, retiring with the rank of Colonel.

This background, combined with his extensive legal experience, allows him to approach each case with discipline, careful preparation, and personal attention, guiding clients through the bankruptcy process with clarity and honesty.

Let Us Help You Find a Clear Path to Debt Relief

Click Below and Schedule a Free One-on-One Consultation

How Does Our Process Work?

Consultation Icon

Step 1

One-on-One Personal Consult

We begin with a consultation to understand your financial situation, clarify your goals, and answer your questions about bankruptcy and available options.

Step 2

We Develop a Clear Plan Forward

Next, your case is carefully reviewed to determine the most appropriate bankruptcy approach, whether Chapter 7, Chapter 11, or Chapter 13, based on your circumstances.

Step 3

Steady Guidance Through the Process

From filing through resolution, your case is handled with close attention to detail to ensure all requirements are met and the process moves forward as smoothly as possible.

Direct Attorney Involvement From Start to Finish

Every case is handled personally by Michael Plotkin. Your matter is never passed to a paralegal or junior associate, ensuring experienced oversight, careful preparation, and consistent communication at every stage.

Take the First Step Toward a Fresh Financial Start

Claim Your Consultation and Get Started Now for Free

Let Us Help You Find a Clear Path to Debt Relief

Contact Us and Get Your Free Consultation Today

How Does Our Process Work?

Step 1

One-on-One Personal Consult

We begin with a consultation to understand your financial situation, clarify your goals, and answer your questions about bankruptcy and available options.

Step 2

We Develop a Clear Plan Forward

Next, your case is carefully reviewed to determine the most appropriate bankruptcy approach, whether Chapter 7, Chapter 11, or Chapter 13, based on your circumstances.

Step 3

Steady Guidance Through the Process

From filing through resolution, your case is handled with close attention to detail to ensure all requirements are met and the process moves forward as smoothly as possible.

Take the First Step Toward a Fresh Financial Start

Claim Your Consultation and Get Started Now for Free

What Our Clients Are Saying

Google 5 Star Review

Jacqueline Garcia.

Great and reliable Bankruptcy Attorney.

He deals with clients effectively, efficiently and honesty. Attorney Plotkin is a big help in our cases and his willingness to resolve our cases makes our life now more peaceful.

I recommend him 100%. Thank you Attorney Plotkin.

Google 5 Star Review

Angel A.

It's one of the hardest decisions to file for BK and it's even harder after you decide to file.

Honestly I was lost and had no idea where to start or if I can even complete all my paperwork. Michael helped me and took the load off and made the process so easy and affordable.

I highly recommend him, very professional and knows exactly what he's doing. Thank you Michael!

Google 5 Star Review

Raul Jaiden.

The lawyers at Plotkin Bankruptcy Group were knowledgeable and supportive throughout the bankruptcy process.

Google 5 Star Review

Forrest Morris.

Plotkin Bankruptcy Group helped me understand the complexities of bankruptcy law and made the process much easier for me.

Google 5 Star Review

Ruth McDonald.

The team at Plotkin Bankruptcy Group were friendly and approachable, which made the process much less stressful.

Google 5 Star Review

Charles Steven.

I was impressed with the level of commitment and dedication shown by the team at Plotkin Bankruptcy Group.

Areas of Expertise

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy

Chapter 11 Bankruptcy

Debt Relief Solutions

Wage Garnishment Defense

Creditor Harassment

Foreclosure Defense

Asset Protection

Bankruptcy Counseling & Guidance

What Our Clients Are Saying

Raul Jaiden.

The lawyers at Plotkin Bankruptcy Group were knowledgeable and supportive throughout the bankruptcy process.

Forrest Morris.

Plotkin Bankruptcy Group helped me understand the complexities of bankruptcy law and made the process much easier for me.

Ruth McDonald.

The team at Plotkin Bankruptcy Group were friendly and approachable, which made the process much less stressful.

Areas of Expertise

Car Accident Icon
Motorcycle Accident Icon
Truck Accident Icon

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy

Chapter 11 Bankruptcy

Pedestrian Accident Icon
Rideshare Accident Icon
Bicycle Accident Icon

Debt Relief Solutions

Wage Garnishment Defense

Creditor Harassment

Public Transport Accident Icon
Hotel Accident Icon
Drunk Driving Accident Icon

Foreclosure Defense

Asset Protection

Bankruptcy Counseling & Guidance

More Reasons to Choose Michael E. Plotkin, Attorney at Law

To Consider

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Others

Personalized, Direct Attorney Access

Clear and Responsive Communication

Decades of Legal and Financial Insight

Over 45 Years of Legal Experience

Respectful, Client-Focused Representation

More Reasons to Choose Michael E. Plotkin, Attorney at Law

To

Consider

Michael E. Plotkin

Other

Firms

1-on-1, Direct Attorney Access

Clear and Responsive Communication

Over 45 Years of Legal Experience

Respectful, Client-Focused Representation

Looking for A Bankruptcy Attorney?

Contact Us and Get Your Free Consultation Today

Looking for A Bankruptcy Attorney?

Contact Us and Get Your Free Consultation Today

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if bankruptcy is the right option for me?

Bankruptcy may be appropriate if you are struggling with overwhelming debt, facing wage garnishments, foreclosure, or constant creditor calls. A consultation allows your financial situation to be reviewed so you can understand your options and decide what makes the most sense for you.

What types of bankruptcy are available?

The most common types are Chapter 7, Chapter 13, and Chapter 11. Each serves a different purpose depending on your income, assets, and goals. The right option depends on your specific circumstances.

What is the difference between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy?

Chapter 7 is designed to eliminate qualifying unsecured debts, while Chapter 13 involves a structured repayment plan over time. The best choice depends on factors such as income, property, and long-term financial objectives.

Will I lose my property if I file for bankruptcy?

Not necessarily. Many people are able to protect their home, vehicle, and other assets through available exemptions. This is one of the most important topics to review during a consultation.

How long does the bankruptcy process take?

Chapter 7 cases typically take a few months from filing to completion. Chapter 13 cases last longer due to the repayment plan. Timelines vary based on the details of each case.

Can bankruptcy stop creditor harassment and wage garnishments?

Yes. Once a bankruptcy case is filed, most creditor actions, including collection calls, lawsuits, and wage garnishments, are required to stop under federal law.

Will bankruptcy affect my credit?

Bankruptcy does impact credit, but many clients find it provides an opportunity to rebuild financial stability over time. For some, continuing to struggle with unpaid debt can be more damaging in the long run.

Do I need to go to court if I file for bankruptcy?

Most cases involve a brief meeting with a bankruptcy trustee rather than a traditional court appearance. Clients are guided through what to expect so there are no surprises.

Will my case be handled personally by an attorney?

Yes. Your case is handled directly by the attorney from start to finish, ensuring experienced oversight, careful preparation, and clear communication throughout the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if bankruptcy is the right option for me?

Bankruptcy may be appropriate if you are struggling with overwhelming debt, facing wage garnishments, foreclosure, or constant creditor calls. A consultation allows your financial situation to be reviewed so you can understand your options and decide what makes the most sense for you.

What types of bankruptcy are available?

The most common types are Chapter 7, Chapter 13, and Chapter 11. Each serves a different purpose depending on your income, assets, and goals. The right option depends on your specific circumstances.

What is the difference between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy?

Chapter 7 is designed to eliminate qualifying unsecured debts, while Chapter 13 involves a structured repayment plan over time. The best choice depends on factors such as income, property, and long-term financial objectives.

Will I lose my property if I file for bankruptcy?

Not necessarily. Many people are able to protect their home, vehicle, and other assets through available exemptions. This is one of the most important topics to review during a consultation.

How long does the bankruptcy process take?

Chapter 7 cases typically take a few months from filing to completion. Chapter 13 cases last longer due to the repayment plan. Timelines vary based on the details of each case.

Can bankruptcy stop creditor harassment and wage garnishments?

Yes. Once a bankruptcy case is filed, most creditor actions, including collection calls, lawsuits, and wage garnishments, are required to stop under federal law.

Will bankruptcy affect my credit?

Bankruptcy does impact credit, but many clients find it provides an opportunity to rebuild financial stability over time. For some, continuing to struggle with unpaid debt can be more damaging in the long run.

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Visit Our Office

35 North Lake Avenue Suite 710

Pasadena, California 91101

Michael E. Plotkin, Attorney at Law Logo

Michael E. Plotkin, Attorney at Law

(818) 424-7691

35 North Lake Avenue Suite 710

Pasadena, California 91101

Michael E. Plotkin, Attorney at Law Logo

Michael E. Plotkin, Attorney at Law

(818) 424-7691

35 North Lake Avenue Suite 710

Pasadena, California 91101

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