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

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

Does Matthew offer a free consultation?

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

How long do bankruptcy cases in District of Columbia 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. Matthew gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

Can Matthew take my case if I'm outside Washington?

Matthew is licensed in District of Columbia. Matters governed by District of Columbia law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Matthew 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 Matthew?

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. Matthew will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

Is Matthew accepting new bankruptcy clients right now?

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

Matthew S. Bergman, Bankruptcy Attorney in Washington

Quick answer

Matthew S. Bergman is a partner based in Washington, DC. The practice focuses on Bankruptcy, Business, and Formation. Matthew has over 35 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Potomac Law Group, PLLC. Rated 4.4 out of 5 from 1 client review.

Based in: Washington, DC
Experience: over 35 years
Known for: Bankruptcy · Business · Formation

Handles Bankruptcy, Business, and Formation matters from Washington, DC.
Over 35 years of practice as a licensed attorney.
Recognized with BV Distinguished.

Areas of practice

Practice areas handled by Matthew S. Bergman

Matthew concentrates on bankruptcy, business, formation, general, and government. Each area below outlines the kind of case Matthew handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

Bankruptcy cases in Washington, District of Columbia

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

Business cases in Washington, District of Columbia

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

Formation cases in Washington, District of Columbia

Matthew takes formation matters in Washington, District of Columbia. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Matthew agrees to represent you.

General cases in Washington, District of Columbia

Matthew takes general matters in Washington, District of Columbia. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Matthew agrees to represent you.

Government cases in Washington, District of Columbia

Matthew takes government matters in Washington, District of Columbia. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Matthew agrees to represent you.

Biography

About Matthew S. Bergman — Over 35 years of District of Columbia bankruptcy experience

Matthew S. Bergman is a partner based in Washington, DC. The practice focuses on Bankruptcy, Business, and Formation. Matthew has over 35 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Potomac Law Group, PLLC. Rated 4.4 out of 5 from 1 client review.

Matthew S. Bergman is a lawyer practicing commercial finance, commercial lending, cybersecurity and data privacy and 14 other areas of law. Matthew received a B.A. degree from Brandeis University in 1988, and has been licensed for 35 years. Matthew practices at Potomac Law Group, PLLC in Washington, DC.

How Matthew handles bankruptcy matters

Matthew S. Bergman is a lawyer practicing commercial finance, commercial lending, cybersecurity and data privacy and 14 other areas of law. Matthew received a B.A. degree from Brandeis University in 1988, and has been licensed for 35 years. Matthew practices at Potomac Law Group, PLLC in Washington, DC.

The kind of cases Matthew takes

Matthew reviews new inquiries case-by-case for bankruptcy, business, and formation matters in Washington and the surrounding District of Columbia area.

Credentials

Matthew S. Bergman's legal education and bar admissions

George Washington University Law School
J.D. · 1991
Brandeis University
B.A. · 1988

Jurisdictions

Matthew's state bar admissions

District of Columbia
1993 · ACTIVE
Maryland
1991 · ACTIVE

Matthew studied at J.D. in George Washington University Law School and B.A. in Brandeis University.

Law school and academic background

Matthew completed J.D. in George Washington University Law School and B.A. in Brandeis University. Formal legal training is one signal of substantive knowledge — the day-to-day practice Matthew runs in District of Columbia is where that training gets applied to real client questions.

Recognition

Awards, publications, and recognition of Matthew S. Bergman

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

BV Distinguished

Legal awards and honors

BV Distinguished.

Locations

Matthew S. Bergman's office in Washington

Matthew's primary office is at 1717 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Ste. 1025, Washington, DC, 20006. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Main office

Potomac Law Group, PLLC

1717 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Ste. 1025

Washington, DC 20006

Open in Google Maps

Client feedback

Client reviews of Matthew S. Bergman — 4.4/5 rating from 1 verified client review

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

4.4

1 client review

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

Read all reviews

Hiring guide

How to hire Matthew S. Bergman — what to expect in your first consultation

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

Consultation formats and pricing

Matthew charges for the initial consult. That fee is credited toward representation if you retain Matthew'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; Matthew will tell you what matters and what doesn't.

Questions to ask a bankruptcy attorney in Washington, District of Columbia

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 Matthew

Matthew 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. Matthew confirms the model in the engagement letter before any work starts.

Payment methods and payment plans

Matthew'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 Matthew S. Bergman

How much does it cost to hire Matthew for a bankruptcy case?
Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Matthew walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.
Does Matthew offer a free consultation?
Matthew charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Matthew's office. Some bankruptcy attorneys offer free consults — check Matthew's current terms during booking.
How long do bankruptcy cases in District of Columbia 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. Matthew gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.
Can Matthew take my case if I'm outside Washington?
Matthew is licensed in District of Columbia. Matters governed by District of Columbia law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Matthew 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 Matthew?
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. Matthew will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.
Is Matthew accepting new bankruptcy clients right now?
Matthew'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 District of Columbia residents in the last few months, answered by bankruptcy attorneys like Matthew S. Bergman. Each link opens the full answer thread.

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
Will Filing Bankruptcy Stop Wage Garnishment In Minnesota?
I live in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and my wages are getting garnished because of an unpaid credit card. I’m thinking about filing for bankruptcy to stop the garnishment. Will my ban
1 verified answer · Bankruptcy · Minnesota

Areas served

Bankruptcy attorneys serving Washington and Belize City in District of Columbia

Matthew handles bankruptcy matters throughout District of Columbia. Each city below is a direct link into the search page for verified bankruptcy attorneys in that community.