Our Practice Areas: Your Guide To Debt Relief

Last updated on December 18, 2025

Facing financial distress can be one of the most stressful and confusing experiences of your life. The weight of unpaid bills, the fear of creditors and the overwhelming number of legal options can make you feel lost.

You need more than just a lawyer; you need a clear path forward and a trusted partner to guide you. The Law Office of Gregory Messer provides honest, compassionate guidance to help you through these challenges.

The skill of our firm is built on a foundation of distinctive credentials and deep experience. As a board-certified lawyer in consumer bankruptcy since 1995 and a Panel Trustee in the southern and eastern districts of New York since 1980, Gregory Messer has a comprehensive understanding of the entire debt relief system. With over 45 years of experience, he has used this knowledge to put even the most anxious clients at ease, providing a level of insight that is unmatched.

Bankruptcy

Bankruptcy is a legal tool that provides a way to get a fresh start from overwhelming debt. We handle a full range of bankruptcy cases for individuals and businesses, helping you understand which type of bankruptcy is right for you. Attorney Messer also provides answers to your common concerns about the process.

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy

Also known as “liquidation bankruptcy,” Chapter 7 is the most common form of bankruptcy for individuals. It can discharge unsecured debts, such as credit card bills and medical expenses, giving you a quick financial fresh start.

We guide you through the process, clarifying what property is protected from bankruptcy under New York and federal law and advocating to discharge your eligible debts.

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy

This is a “reorganization bankruptcy” for individuals with regular income. It allows you to keep your property, including your home, by establishing a manageable repayment plan over three to five years.

We work with you to create and propose a feasible repayment plan that satisfies the court and creditors, helping you protect your assets while paying off your debts.

Chapter 11 Bankruptcy

This type of bankruptcy is most often used by businesses that want to restructure their debts and continue to operate. Our firm provides comprehensive counsel, guiding you through the complex legal requirements and helping you develop a viable reorganization plan.

Bankruptcy Litigation

Sometimes disputes arise within a bankruptcy case. We can represent you in litigation, advocating to protect your rights and assets from challenges by creditors or the bankruptcy trustee.

Bankruptcy And Divorce

Filing for bankruptcy during a divorce can impact the division of assets and debts. We provide counsel to help you determine the best strategy for your financial settlement, ensuring your interests are protected.

Bankruptcy And Retirement

Many people worry about their life savings. In most cases, your retirement accounts, such as 401(k)s and IRAs, are protected in bankruptcy. We help you navigate the rules to keep your savings secure.

Bankruptcy And Taxes

The relationship between bankruptcy and tax debt is complex. We analyze your tax situation to determine which federal or state tax debts can be discharged, helping you find relief from the burden of back taxes.

Fraudulent Conveyances

A fraudulent conveyance is the transfer of property to another party to intentionally avoid paying a creditor. Our firm advises clients on how to avoid these pitfalls and can defend against allegations of fraudulent transfers.

Do not let common myths about bankruptcy prevent you from finding a fresh start. Our firm provides clear, factual guidance on how to file for bankruptcy, helping you separate fact from fiction and take control of your financial future.

Bankruptcy Alternatives

Bankruptcy is not the right solution for everyone. Our firm also explores and provides legal assistance with a full range of alternatives. We take the time to analyze your unique situation to determine the most effective path to debt relief.

Debt Consolidation And Negotiation

We can work to consolidate your debts into a single, manageable payment or negotiate with your creditors to reduce the amount you owe.

Foreclosure Defense

If you are at risk of losing your home, we can help you with strategies to avoid foreclosure.

Stopping Debt Collection Harassment

Under federal law, you have rights that protect you from aggressive and abusive collection practices. We act as your advocate to get debt collectors to stop harassing you with constant calls and threats.

Wage Garnishment

Wage garnishment is a legal tool that allows creditors to take a portion of your paycheck. We can help you challenge a wage garnishment order to protect your income and financial stability.

Insolvency

For businesses facing financial distress, we provide counsel on managing insolvency and exploring options for a financial workout to avoid business closure.

After exploring all your alternatives, you may still find that bankruptcy is the best option for your financial health. While many people worry about the impact on their credit, a successful bankruptcy can be the first step toward rebuilding your financial future.

Contact A New York Debt Relief Lawyer Today

You do not have to face your financial worries alone. The Law Office of Gregory Messer provides honest advice and a clear path forward.

We offer a free initial consultation to review your case and discuss your options confidentially. Contact us today at 347-943-8475 or send us a message online. Schedule your appointment and take the first step toward a brighter financial future.

We are a debt relief agency. We help people file for bankruptcy relief under the Bankruptcy Code.