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Michael Cibik
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Michael Cibik
Cibik and Cataldo, P.C.
1500 Walnut Street
Suite 900
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Phone: (215) 735-1060 | Fax: (215) 735-6769
http://ccpclaw.com
Board Certified in Consumer and Business Bankruptcy
Legal Topic
Bankruptcy
Preferred New Clients
We specialize in Chapter 7 and 13 bankruptcy cases.
Sub-Categories
Bankruptcy
- Chapter 13
- Chapter 7
- Credit Disputes
- Debt Relief
- Garnishments
- Business Bankruptcy
- Credit Repair
- Credit Restoration
- Creditor Harassment
- Personal Bankruptcy
- Foreclosures
Bar Admissions
PA, Oct 1976
Bar Number: 23110
Specialty Certifications
I am certified by the American Bankruptcy Institute in both Consumer and Business bankruptcy.
Other Court Admissions
United States Supreme Court, United States Court of Appeals, United States District Court, and United States Tax Court.
Association Memberships
The Pennsylvania State Bar Association, the Philadelphia Bar Association, the American Bankruptcy Institute, and the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys.
Continuing Education
I attend continuing education classes, at least 12 credits a year, in the area of bankruptcy. Also, I attend the Annual National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Lawyers conference each year.
Papers and Publications
I write a weekly column in the Philadelphia Public Record entitled "Understanding Bankruptcy."
Example Cases
My practice is limited to the representation of debtors in Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcies. I have successfully represented thousands of clients seeking bankruptcy protection since 1980 and I have handled over 15,000 consumer and small business bankruptcy cases.
Education
Degree:
M.B.A.
School:
University of Delaware
City:
Wilmington
State:
DE
Year:
1972
Focus and Accomplishments:
Marketing
Degree:
LL.M.
School:
Temple University Law school
City:
Philadelphia
State:
PA
Year:
1981
Focus and Accomplishments:
Tax Law
Degree:
B.S.
School:
Pennsylvania State University
City:
University Park
State:
PA
Year:
1966
Focus and Accomplishments:
Chemical Engineering
Degree:
Juris Doctor
School:
Widener University School of Law
City:
Wilmington
State:
DE
Year:
1976
Focus and Accomplishments:
Civil Litigation
Number of Attorneys
3
State Licensed In
Pennsylvania
Firm Focus and History
I established the law firm alone in 1980. My firm partner, Michael Cataldo, joined me 20 years ago. Today we are the largest consumer bankruptcy firm in the five counties Greater Philadelphia Area (Chester, Bucks, Montgomery, Delaware, and Philadelphia Counties).
We focus on consumer bank, specifically in Chapter 7 and 13. We are a very specialized firm.
Previous Employment Summary
I have been working in this field for 30 years. I was a chemical engineer with Dupont before working as an attorney.
What is your opinion regarding clients educating themselves on legal issues?
I support clients educating themselves in legal matters.
Are you willing to review documents prepared by clients?
I am willing to review documents.
Are you willing to coach clients who want to represent themselves?
I am not willing to coach clients who want to represent themselves. My malpractice insurance prohibits this.
Why did you decide to be a lawyer?
I wanted to help good people through bad financial times.
What work experience and education helps you be a better lawyer?
My 25+ years of bankruptcy experience and my bankruptcy certification as a bankruptcy specialist in both consumer and business bankruptcy make me well qualified to represent debtors in Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy cases.
Why did you decide on your primary area of practice?
My bankruptcy practice found me -- -- I didn't find it. Upon graduating from law school and then obtaining my Masters of Law in Taxation, the new chapter 13 trustee, who was a classmate of mine, allowed me to take over his bankruptcy cases since he had a conflict. Also, at that time I became a chapter 7 panel trustee for the Chief Bankruptcy Judge in Philadelphia. I love the entire bankruptcy process and the financial relief it affords debtors.
What do you like best about your career?
The bankruptcy legal practice is a rather challenging and complex area of the law. It encompasses so many other legal disciplines and issues. Consequently, I am able to enjoy helping people improve their lives and financial condition. I remind clients that bankruptcy is not the end of a road, but the beginning of an easier and happier life financial journey.
Tell us about your law firm:
My law partner, Michael Cataldo, has 15+ years of bankruptcy experience and is also a certified bankruptcy specialist in both consumer and business bankruptcy law. Furthermore, we have an additional attorney on our staff, along with a staff of five legal assistances. Consequently, we are well-equipped and prepared to handle the most complex and most serious client bankruptcy issues.
What are your strengths and style?
Either my partner or I personally see all new clients on their first visit. I generally see 75% of new clients. I am direct and upfront. My clients do not hear what they want to hear from me, but they hear what they need to hear. However, my direct demeanor is tempered by compassion and understanding.
Personal Interests:
I enjoy tennis, ski racing (NASTAR), scuba diving (Certified Rescue Diver), flying (Commercial Pilot) and exercising.
Fax
(215) 735-6769
Office Hours
Monday through Friday
9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Saturdays
11:00 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Emergency After Hours
Yes
Foreign Languages
Spanish
Fixed-Price Services and Fees
We do have fixed prices, but it depends on the case.
Hourly Rates
Most of our cases are fixed fee cases.
Free Initial Consultation?
Yes, we offer a free initial consultation for half an hour.
Typical Retainer
Yes, but it depends on the case.
Nolo's Licensing Check
Attorneys have passed a licensing check. Nolo has confirmed that every member attorney has a valid license and is in good standing with the applicable bar associations upon joining the directory.
Directory lawyers are required to notify Nolo immediately if they become the subject of any disciplinary action by any bar association.
