Bankruptcy Attorney in Staten Island, New York
Just south of Manhattan, Staten Island is the most suburban of New York City’s five boroughs, offering an exceptional blend of urban access and residential charm.
With a population of approximately 490,000 residents, Staten Island continues to grow as a sought-after destination for families, professionals, and investors seeking a quieter lifestyle without sacrificing proximity to the city.
Often referred to as the “borough of parks,” Staten Island boasts over 12,300 acres of protected parkland, accounting for nearly one-third of its total land area.
Nature lovers flock to the Greenbelt, an expansive network of trails and forests larger than Central Park, while shoreline communities such as South Beach and Great Kills offer waterfront living with picturesque views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Staten Island also remains one of the most affordable boroughs in New York City, with a median home price of $645,000 as of Q1 2025—significantly lower than Manhattan’s $1.2 million average, making it an ideal choice for first-time buyers and investors alike.
Neighborhoods like Todt Hill, one of the highest natural points on the Eastern Seaboard, feature luxurious estates, while areas such as St. George are undergoing vibrant redevelopment fueled by new residential projects and easy access to the Staten Island Ferry.
Of course, whether you're a long-time resident of Staten Island or a newcomer drawn by its growing appeal, life here—like anywhere—can bring financial challenges. Rising living costs, unforeseen medical bills, job loss, or overwhelming credit debt can impact even the most responsible individuals and families.
That’s where Todd E. Duffy PLLC, Staten Island’s trusted bankruptcy attorney, steps in. With deep roots in the Staten Island community and years of experience working through New York’s challenging financial and legal systems, our firm is dedicated to helping clients regain control of their financial future.
From Chapter 7 debt liquidation to Chapter 13 debt restructuring, we provide tailored, compassionate, and strategic legal guidance for individuals, families, and small business owners across neighborhoods like Dongan Hills, West Brighton, and Huguenot.
We understand that seeking bankruptcy protection isn’t about failure—it’s about making a smart, lawful decision to reset, rebuild, and move forward. At Todd E. Duffy PLLC, your financial recovery is our commitment. Contact us today to get started with a Staten Island bankruptcy attorney with over 25 years of experience.
Further Reading on Bankruptcy in Staten Island
Why Do I Need a Staten Island Bankruptcy Attorney?
Filing for bankruptcy is a serious financial decision that can have long-term effects on your credit, assets, and overall financial future. While it's possible to file on your own, having a knowledgeable Staten Island bankruptcy attorney by your side can make all the difference. Some reasons why include:
Accurate paperwork and filing: One of the leading reasons bankruptcy cases get delayed or dismissed is due to incomplete or incorrect paperwork. A skilled attorney assures that all documentation is properly prepared and filed on time, avoiding costly errors and delays.
Protection from creditors: Once you file for bankruptcy, an “automatic stay” goes into effect, stopping most collection actions immediately. Your attorney will communicate with creditors on your behalf, assuring your rights are protected and helping you avoid harassment or lawsuits during the process.
Maximizing asset protection: New York has specific exemptions that may allow you to keep your home, car, retirement accounts, and other important assets. A Staten Island bankruptcy attorney understands how to strategically apply these exemptions to protect what matters most to you.
Representation in court: Bankruptcy often involves at least one court appearance, such as the 341 meeting of creditors. Having an attorney represent you provides peace of mind and increases the likelihood of a smoother process, especially if creditors challenge your filing.
Long-term financial guidance: The right attorney does more than just help you file—they provide advice on rebuilding your credit, avoiding future financial pitfalls, and creating a sustainable plan for moving forward after bankruptcy.
Hiring a Staten Island bankruptcy attorney assures you have the legal guidance, protection, and peace of mind needed to work through the process and take confident steps toward a stronger financial future.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bankruptcy in Staten Island
If you're considering bankruptcy, it's natural to have concerns about how the process might affect your life. Here are some answers to common questions that can help clarify what to expect.
Will I lose my home or car if I file for bankruptcy?
Not necessarily. Many people are able to keep their home and vehicle, especially when filing under Chapter 13 or using the appropriate New York exemptions under Chapter 7. A qualified attorney can help you protect important assets.
Can I file for bankruptcy more than once?
Yes, but there are time restrictions between filings. For example, if you previously filed under Chapter 7 and received a discharge, you must typically wait eight years before filing Chapter 7 again. The waiting period depends on the type of bankruptcy previously filed.
Will my employer find out if I file for bankruptcy?
In most cases, your employer won't be notified unless your wages are being garnished or your job is somehow involved in the bankruptcy process. Although bankruptcy filings are public record, they aren’t commonly reviewed by employers.
Bankruptcy can feel overwhelming, but knowing your rights and options makes the process more manageable. Speaking with an experienced Staten Island bankruptcy attorney can provide clarity and confidence as you move forward.
What Are the Different Types of Bankruptcy?
There are several types of bankruptcy, but the most common for individuals and small business owners are Chapter 7 and Chapter 13:
Chapter 7 bankruptcy (liquidation): This option allows for the discharge of most unsecured debts, such as credit cards and medical bills. Non-exempt assets, if any, may be sold to repay creditors. It’s generally best suited for individuals with limited income and few assets.
Chapter 13 bankruptcy (reorganization): This allows you to keep your assets while repaying debts over a three- to five-year period through a court-approved payment plan. It’s ideal for individuals with a steady income who have fallen behind on payments, such as mortgages or car loans.
Knowing the differences and what each chapter entails is critical. A Staten Island bankruptcy attorney can assess your financial situation and help you choose the right path.
Common Signs You May Need to Consider Bankruptcy
Bankruptcy isn’t for everyone, but there are clear warning signs that it may be the right solution:
You’re only making minimum payments on your credit cards.
You're using one credit card to pay off another.
Creditors are constantly calling or threatening legal action.
Your wages are being garnished.
You're behind on your mortgage or facing foreclosure.
You’re experiencing overwhelming medical debt or a sudden loss of income.
If one or more of these situations apply to you, it may be time to speak with a bankruptcy attorney about your options.
How Will Bankruptcy Affect My Credit?
Filing for bankruptcy will impact your credit score—typically causing a significant drop in the short term. However, for many people already struggling with high debt, missed payments, and collections, the impact may be less dramatic than expected.
More importantly, bankruptcy gives you the opportunity to reset your finances and begin rebuilding your credit. Many people see improvement within one to two years post-bankruptcy by responsibly managing new credit and maintaining a steady income.
What Debts Can Be Discharged in Bankruptcy?
Not all debts can be wiped out in bankruptcy, but many can. Dischargeable debts typically include:
Credit card balances
Medical bills
Personal loans
Past-due utility bills
Certain tax debts (under specific conditions)
However, some debts can't be discharged, such as:
Most student loans
Child support and alimony
Recent tax debts
Court fines and restitution
A qualified bankruptcy attorney can review your debts and help you understand which ones are eligible for discharge.
Contact a Staten Island Bankruptcy Attorney
Need to file for bankruptcy? Call our bankruptcy attorney at Todd E. Duffy PLLC for help. From I-278 East, cross the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge into Brooklyn and follow signs for the BQE. Take exit 28B to merge onto I-478 North toward the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel. After the tunnel, follow signs for West Street (NY-9A North), and turn right on W 30th Street, then left on 7th Avenue, and a quick left onto W 31st Street. Contact us today.