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

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

Does Michael offer a free consultation?

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

How long do bankruptcy cases in New York 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. Michael gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

Can Michael take my case if I'm outside Middletown?

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

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

Is Michael accepting new bankruptcy clients right now?

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

Michael O'Leary, Bankruptcy Attorney in Middletown

Quick answer

Michael O'Leary is a member based in Middletown, NY. The practice focuses on Bankruptcy, Chapter 13, and Chapter 7. Michael has over 48 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Hayward, Parker & O'Leary. Rated 5.0 out of 5 from 5 client reviews.

Based in: Middletown, NY
Experience: over 48 years
Known for: Bankruptcy · Chapter 13 · Chapter 7

Handles Bankruptcy, Chapter 13, and Chapter 7 matters from Middletown, NY.
Over 48 years of practice as a licensed attorney.
Recognized with BV Distinguished.

Areas of practice

Practice areas handled by Michael O'Leary

Michael concentrates on bankruptcy, chapter 13, chapter 7, debt settlement, and foreclosure. Each area below outlines the kind of case Michael handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

Bankruptcy cases in Middletown, New York

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

Chapter 13 cases in Middletown, New York

Michael takes chapter 13 matters in Middletown, New York. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Michael agrees to represent you.

Chapter 7 cases in Middletown, New York

Michael takes chapter 7 matters in Middletown, New York. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Michael agrees to represent you.

Debt Settlement cases in Middletown, New York

Michael takes debt settlement matters in Middletown, New York. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Michael agrees to represent you.

Foreclosure cases in Middletown, New York

Michael takes foreclosure matters in Middletown, New York. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Michael agrees to represent you.

Biography

About Michael O'Leary — Over 48 years of New York bankruptcy experience

Michael O'Leary is a member based in Middletown, NY. The practice focuses on Bankruptcy, Chapter 13, and Chapter 7. Michael has over 48 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Hayward, Parker & O'Leary. Rated 5.0 out of 5 from 5 client reviews.

Michael O’Leary, Esq. devotes his entire practice to consumer bankruptcy law, handling cases under Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 for individual persons, married couples and small businesses. In addition to having filed several thousand consumer bankruptcy cases for clients and having counseled many thousand more, Michael O’Leary served as a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Trustee in the Poughkeepsie (NY) Bankruptcy Court for seventeen (17) years (ie., 1994 thru 2011), and administered well over ten thousand (10,000) Chapter 7 cases while serving in said capacity. Mr. O’Leary has established a well-deserved reputation as an attorney who capably and successfully represents his clients throughout the bankruptcy process. Having practiced consumer bankruptcy law for over thirty (30) years, Michael O’Leary brings to each case that he handles a very broad and deep understanding of consumer bankruptcy practice, and with this broad experience he is uniquely able to navigate his clients through the bankruptcy process.

Member of:

Hudson Valley Bankruptcy Bar Association, President National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys American Bankruptcy Institute Capital Region Bankruptcy Bar Association Federal Court Bar for Southern District of New York New York State Bar Association Orange County Bar Association Middletown Bar Association

Michael's approach to bankruptcy cases

Michael O’Leary, Esq. devotes his entire practice to consumer bankruptcy law, handling cases under Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 for individual persons, married couples and small businesses. In addition to having filed several thousand consumer bankruptcy cases for clients and having counseled many thousand more, Michael O’Leary served as a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Trustee in the Poughkeepsie (NY)…

Clients Michael works with

Michael reviews new inquiries case-by-case for bankruptcy, chapter 13, and chapter 7 matters in Middletown and the surrounding New York area.

Credentials

Michael O'Leary's legal education and bar admissions

Buffalo Law School J.D.
—
State University of New York at Binghamton B.A.
—

Jurisdictions

Michael's state bar admissions

U.S. District Court,
1981 · ACTIVE
New York
1978 · ACTIVE

Michael studied at — in Buffalo Law School J.D. and — in State University of New York at Binghamton B.A..

Law school and academic background

Michael completed — in Buffalo Law School J.D. and — in State University of New York at Binghamton B.A.. Formal legal training is one signal of substantive knowledge — the day-to-day practice Michael runs in New York is where that training gets applied to real client questions.

Recognition

Awards, publications, and recognition of Michael O'Leary

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

BV Distinguished

Legal awards and honors

BV Distinguished.

Locations

Michael O'Leary's office in Middletown

Michael's primary office is at 225 Dolson Avenue, Suite 303, Middletown, NY, 10940. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Main office

Hayward, Parker & O'Leary

225 Dolson Avenue, Suite 303

Middletown, NY 10940

Open in Google Maps

Client feedback

Client reviews of Michael O'Leary — 5.0/5 rating from 5 verified client reviews

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

5.0

5 client reviews

Client ratings are sourced from public records and editorial research. Reviews on LawyersListed are accepted from verified clients once Michael O'Leary claims this profile.

Read all reviews

Hiring guide

How to hire Michael O'Leary — what to expect in your first consultation

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

Consultation formats and pricing

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

Questions to ask a bankruptcy attorney in Middletown, New York

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 Michael

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

Payment methods and payment plans

Michael'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 Michael O'Leary

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

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

Michael O'Leary, Bankruptcy Attorney in Middletown, New York

Quick answer