How much does it cost to hire Bernard for a bankruptcy case?

Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Bernard walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

Does Bernard offer a free consultation?

Bernard charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Bernard's office. Some bankruptcy attorneys offer free consults — check Bernard's current terms during booking.

How long do bankruptcy cases in Illinois typically take?

Simple bankruptcy matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Bernard gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

Can Bernard take my case if I'm outside Northbrook?

Bernard is licensed in Illinois. Matters governed by Illinois law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Bernard will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

What should I bring to my first meeting with Bernard?

Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Bernard will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

Is Bernard accepting new bankruptcy clients right now?

Bernard's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.

Bernard Wiczer, Bankruptcy Attorney in Northbrook

Quick answer

Bernard Wiczer is a senior partner based in Northbrook, IL. The practice focuses on Bankruptcy, Business, and Civil Rights. Bernard has over 64 years of legal experience. Rated 5.0 out of 5 from 1 client review.

Based in: Northbrook, IL
Experience: over 64 years
Known for: Bankruptcy · Business · Civil Rights

Handles Bankruptcy, Business, and Civil Rights matters from Northbrook, IL.
Over 64 years of practice as a licensed attorney.
Recognized with AV Preeminent.

Areas of practice

Legal matters Bernard takes on

Bernard concentrates on bankruptcy, business, civil rights, class action, and divorce. Each area below outlines the kind of case Bernard handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

Bankruptcy cases in Northbrook, Illinois

Bernard takes bankruptcy matters in Northbrook, Illinois. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Bernard agrees to represent you.

Business cases in Northbrook, Illinois

Bernard takes business matters in Northbrook, Illinois. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Bernard agrees to represent you.

Civil Rights cases in Northbrook, Illinois

Bernard takes civil rights matters in Northbrook, Illinois. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Bernard agrees to represent you.

Class Action cases in Northbrook, Illinois

Bernard takes class action matters in Northbrook, Illinois. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Bernard agrees to represent you.

Divorce cases in Northbrook, Illinois

Bernard takes divorce matters in Northbrook, Illinois. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Bernard agrees to represent you.

Biography

Meet Bernard Wiczer — bankruptcy lawyer in Northbrook

Bernard Wiczer is a senior partner based in Northbrook, IL. The practice focuses on Bankruptcy, Business, and Civil Rights. Bernard has over 64 years of legal experience. Rated 5.0 out of 5 from 1 client review.

Mr. Bernard Wiczer is a lawyer practicing estate planning, admiralty & maritime, corporate & incorporation and 15 other areas of law. Bernard received a B.S.B.A. degree from Northwestern University in 1959, and has been licensed for 64 years. Bernard practices in Northbrook, IL.

How Bernard handles bankruptcy matters

Mr. Bernard Wiczer is a lawyer practicing estate planning, admiralty & maritime, corporate & incorporation and 15 other areas of law. Bernard received a B.S.B.A. degree from Northwestern University in 1959, and has been licensed for 64 years. Bernard practices in Northbrook, IL.

The kind of cases Bernard takes

Bernard reviews new inquiries case-by-case for bankruptcy, business, and civil rights matters in Northbrook and the surrounding Illinois area.

Credentials

Education, bar admissions, and languages

University of Chicago
J.D. · 1962
Northwestern University
B.S.B.A. · 1959

Jurisdictions

Bernard's state bar admissions

Indiana
1979 · ACTIVE
U.S. Tax Court and U
1974 · ACTIVE
U.S. District Court,
1963 · ACTIVE
Illinois
1962 · ACTIVE

Bernard studied at J.D. in University of Chicago and B.S.B.A. in Northwestern University.

Law school and academic background

Bernard completed J.D. in University of Chicago and B.S.B.A. in Northwestern University. Formal legal training is one signal of substantive knowledge — the day-to-day practice Bernard runs in Illinois is where that training gets applied to real client questions.

Recognition

Recognition and thought leadership

Bernard has received 1 formal recognition from bar associations, industry bodies, and peer-review services.

AV Preeminent

Legal awards and honors

AV Preeminent.

Locations

Bernard Wiczer's office in Northbrook

Bernard's primary office is at 1 Unknown, Northbrook, IL, 60062. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Main office

1 Unknown

Northbrook, IL 60062

Open in Google Maps

Client feedback

Client reviews of Bernard Wiczer — 5.0/5 rating from 1 verified client review

Every review below is from a verified client of Bernard. Reviews cover communication, case outcome, and value — the three signals that matter most when comparing bankruptcy attorneys in Northbrook.

5.0

1 client review

Client ratings are sourced from public records and editorial research. Reviews on LawyersListed are accepted from verified clients once Bernard Wiczer claims this profile.

Read all reviews

Hiring guide

How to hire Bernard Wiczer — what to expect in your first consultation

Working with a new bankruptcy attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Bernard usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Consultation formats and pricing

Bernard charges for the initial consult. That fee is credited toward representation if you retain Bernard's office.

What to bring to your first meeting

Bring any documents you already have — police reports, medical records, filed pleadings, correspondence from an insurer, a copy of the contract at issue. If you're not sure, err on the side of bringing everything; Bernard will tell you what matters and what doesn't.

Questions to ask a bankruptcy attorney in Northbrook, Illinois

A short list to run through before you commit: How many bankruptcy matters have you handled in the last year? What's your fee structure? Who else in the office will work on this? What's your realistic estimate of timeline and range of outcomes? How do I reach you between meetings?

Fees & payment

Fees, payment methods, and consultation options for Bernard

Bernard discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in bankruptcy practice — ask which fits.

Hourly rates, contingency fees, and flat-fee options

Every bankruptcy matter is priced differently. Simple document review might be a flat fee. Injury litigation is often contingency. Complex commercial disputes usually run hourly with a retainer. Bernard confirms the model in the engagement letter before any work starts.

Payment methods and payment plans

Bernard's office accepts standard payment methods. Ask about payment plans if the retainer is a stretch — many bankruptcy practices work with clients on structured schedules.

Frequently asked

Frequently asked questions about Bernard Wiczer

How much does it cost to hire Bernard for a bankruptcy case?
Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Bernard walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.
Does Bernard offer a free consultation?
Bernard charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Bernard's office. Some bankruptcy attorneys offer free consults — check Bernard's current terms during booking.
How long do bankruptcy cases in Illinois typically take?
Simple bankruptcy matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Bernard gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.
Can Bernard take my case if I'm outside Northbrook?
Bernard is licensed in Illinois. Matters governed by Illinois law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Bernard will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.
What should I bring to my first meeting with Bernard?
Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Bernard will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.
Is Bernard accepting new bankruptcy clients right now?
Bernard's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.

Community Q&A

Real questions asked by Illinois residents in the last few months, answered by bankruptcy attorneys like Bernard Wiczer. Each link opens the full answer thread.

Will Bankruptcy Affect My Student Loans In Illinois?
I graduated from college in Chicago, Illinois, with about $40,000 in student loans and have been unable to find steady work. I’m thinking about filing for bankruptcy but am unsure
1 verified answer · Bankruptcy · Illinois
Does Filing Bankruptcy Stop Foreclosure In New York?
I’m facing foreclosure on my home in Buffalo, New York, and I’m considering filing for bankruptcy as a last resort. My mortgage lender has already sent me a notice. If I file for C
1 verified answer · Bankruptcy · New York
How Much Will Bankruptcy Cost Me In Michigan?
I live in Detroit, Michigan, and I’m exploring my bankruptcy options. I’ve heard filing can be expensive, but I need to know what to expect in terms of legal fees and court costs.
1 verified answer · Bankruptcy · Michigan
Can I Get A Loan After Filing Bankruptcy In Washington?
I filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Seattle, Washington, six months ago, and I'm starting to think about my financial future. How soon can I apply for a personal loan after bankrup
1 verified answer · Bankruptcy · Washington
What Are The Consequences Of Bankruptcy In Maryland?
I’m considering bankruptcy in Baltimore, Maryland, and I'm worried about the potential consequences, like losing property or having my credit ruined. What are some common consequen
1 verified answer · Bankruptcy · Maryland
Can Bankruptcy Help With Medical Bills In Texas?
I racked up around $15,000 in medical bills after an emergency surgery last year in Houston, Texas. I’m struggling to keep up with payments, and I’m considering bankruptcy. Will fi
1 verified answer · Bankruptcy · Texas

Areas served

Bankruptcy attorneys serving Northbrook, Chicago and Springfield in Illinois

Bernard handles bankruptcy matters throughout Illinois. Each city below is a direct link into the search page for verified bankruptcy attorneys in that community.

Bernard Wiczer, Bankruptcy Attorney in Northbrook, Illinois

Quick answer