Lakelaw

Lakelaw is a boutique firm with a strong reputation for bankruptcy and insolvency work across Illinois. The firm advises individuals and businesses on the full range of bankruptcy matters, including Chapters 7, 11 and 13, as well as Subchapter V reorganisations, workouts and foreclosure defence. It is also noted for its niche expertise in student loan discharge litigation, SBA and tax resolution and bankruptcy mediation. The team is led by founder David P. Leibowitz, a highly experienced practitioner and long-serving Chapter 7 panel trustee for the Northern District of Illinois. He is board certified in both business and consumer bankruptcy and recognised by Lawdragon, Super Lawyers and Martindale-Hubbell. Senior lawyer Linda A. Green brings decades of experience from her tenure as a law clerk to three bankruptcy judges and work with national law firms, enhancing the firm’s depth in complex cases.

International Work

The firm has successfully handled many overseas cases in Europe, Asia and Latin America. Mr. Leibowitz was the lead attorney on a team that institutionalised Bankruptcy Law and Trustee Practice in Mongolia when that nation transitioned to a market economy. We have successfully liquidated property in Ireland and Mexico as well. Currently, we are litigating asset recovery actions in Bosnia Herzegovina.

Recent Highlights

Lakelaw celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2024, marking a legacy of client service and public commitment. in 2025, Lakelaw successfully represented the principal creditor in the Premier Glass Subchapter V Chapter 11 case, navigating contested confirmation issues and complex creditor disputes. It defeated a grossly inadequate plan in a contested confirmation hearing, demonstrating its ability to deliver results in high-stakes reorganisations. This groundbreaking case has received national recognition. Lakelaw has also confirmed numerous Subchapter V plan both on a consensual and non-consensual basis.

Why they stand out

Lakelaw combines its experience with the agility of a boutique practice. Its ability to handle both consumer and business bankruptcies, coupled with specialised knowledge in student loan discharge, tax matters and the intersection of bankruptcy and other substantive areas of law sets it apart in the Illinois market. The firm’s ethos—“Care, Kindness, Courtesy, Respect, Professionalism and Dedication”—underpins its reputation for compassionate yet results-driven representation.

Awards and Recognition

Recipient of public service awards from the District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, the Wisconsin Bar, and the Circuit Court of Lake County, Illinois.

Key Contact:

David P. Leibowitz – Founder & Managing Member

T: +1 312 662 5750 | E: [email protected]