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 Lynbrook?

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 J. Ciaravino, Bankruptcy Attorney in Lynbrook

Quick answer

Michael J. Ciaravino is a senior associate based in Lynbrook, NY. The practice focuses on Bankruptcy, Child Custody, and Child Support. Michael has over 26 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Elliot S. Schlissel, Esq. at Schlissel DeCorpo, LLP.

Based in: Lynbrook, NY
Experience: over 26 years
Known for: Bankruptcy · Child Custody · Child Support

Handles Bankruptcy, Child Custody, and Child Support matters from Lynbrook, NY.
Over 26 years of practice as a licensed attorney.

Areas of practice

Legal matters Michael takes on

Michael concentrates on bankruptcy, child custody, child support, criminal defense, and divorce. Each area below outlines the kind of case Michael handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

Bankruptcy cases in Lynbrook, New York

Michael takes bankruptcy matters in Lynbrook, 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.

Child Custody cases in Lynbrook, New York

Michael takes child custody matters in Lynbrook, 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.

Child Support cases in Lynbrook, New York

Michael takes child support matters in Lynbrook, 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.

Criminal Defense cases in Lynbrook, New York

Michael takes criminal defense matters in Lynbrook, 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.

Divorce cases in Lynbrook, New York

Michael takes divorce matters in Lynbrook, 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

Meet Michael J. Ciaravino — bankruptcy lawyer in Lynbrook

Michael J. Ciaravino is a senior associate based in Lynbrook, NY. The practice focuses on Bankruptcy, Child Custody, and Child Support. Michael has over 26 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Elliot S. Schlissel, Esq. at Schlissel DeCorpo, LLP.

Michael J. Ciaravino practices at Elliot S. Schlissel, Esq. at Schlissel DeCorpo, LLP

Read Full Bio

Michael's approach to bankruptcy cases

Michael J. Ciaravino practices at Elliot S. Schlissel, Esq. at Schlissel DeCorpo, LLP Read Full Bio

Clients Michael works with

Michael reviews new inquiries case-by-case for bankruptcy, child custody, and child support matters in Lynbrook and the surrounding New York area.

Credentials

Education, bar admissions, and languages

New York Law School
J.D. · 1999
Queens College of the City University of New York
B.A. · 1986

Jurisdictions

Michael's state bar admissions

New York
2000 · ACTIVE

Michael studied at J.D. in New York Law School and B.A. in Queens College of the City University of New York.

Law school and academic background

Michael completed J.D. in New York Law School and B.A. in Queens College of the City University of New York. 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.

Locations

Michael J. Ciaravino's office in Lynbrook

Michael's primary office is at 479 Merrick Road, Lynbrook, NY, 11563. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Main office

Elliot S. Schlissel, Esq. at Schlissel DeCorpo, LLP

479 Merrick Road

Lynbrook, NY 11563

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Client feedback

Client reviews of Michael J. Ciaravino

Michael has not yet collected verified client reviews on LawyersListed. Reviews here are all from confirmed clients; anonymous ratings are moderated out.

No reviews yet

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Hiring guide

How to hire Michael J. Ciaravino — 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 Lynbrook, 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 J. Ciaravino

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 Lynbrook?
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 J. Ciaravino. 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 Lynbrook 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 J. Ciaravino, Bankruptcy Attorney in Lynbrook, New York

Quick answer