Atty. Michael L. Bernstein

Atty. Michael L. Bernstein

Michael L. Bernstein is a lawyer practicing bankruptcy.

Washington Washington 37 yrs experience 37 year
Call (202) 738-1866 Book Appointment

Bankruptcy Attorney · Serving Washington, DC · 37+ Years Experience

Profile Summary

About Michael L. Bernstein at a Glance

Michael L. Bernstein is a Partner based in Washington, District of Columbia, practicing at Arnold And Porter Llp. They have 37+ years of legal experience, licensed to practice since 1989. Their practice focuses on bankruptcy. Admitted to practice in Pennsylvania (1989), District of Columbia (1990), and U.S. Supreme Court (2001). Educated at Northwestern University (J.D., 1989) and Brandeis University (B.A., 1986). Recognitions include AV Preeminent. Serves clients in Washington, DC and the surrounding metropolitan area.

Verified attorney profile · Updated October 2026

About Michael L. Bernstein

  • Michael L. Bernstein is a lawyer practicing bankruptcy
  • Michael received a B.A. degree from Brandeis University in 1986, and has been licensed for 37 years
  • Michael practices at Arnold & Porter LLP in Washington, DC

Practice Areas Explained

Michael L. Bernstein's Areas of Legal Practice

Each practice area below reflects the types of cases Michael L. Bernstein handles, with a practical overview of what that area of law involves and how it may apply to your situation in Washington.

Bankruptcy & Debt in Washington

A bankruptcy attorney can help you eliminate debt, stop creditor harassment, and protect your home through Chapter 7 or Chapter 13.

Michael L. Bernstein is one of 104,458 bankruptcy attorneys indexed nationally. Browse bankruptcy attorneys in District of Columbia →

Jurisdictional Context

Why Local Counsel Matters in Washington

Practicing law in District of Columbia. Legal matters in District of Columbia are governed by state-specific rules of civil and criminal procedure, statutes of limitations, and substantive law. Cases originating in Washington are typically filed in the local municipal court or the appropriate District of Columbia state district court, depending on subject matter and amount in controversy. An attorney licensed in District of Columbia brings working knowledge of local procedural deadlines, judicial practices in this venue, and the substantive law that applies to cases brought here. Out-of-state attorneys generally cannot represent clients in District of Columbia courts without local counsel or pro hac vice admission.

Washington Courts and Legal Process

Choosing a Washington-based attorney means your counsel already knows the local docketing timelines, preferred filing formats, and how individual judges typically rule on procedural motions — details that only come from practicing in this jurisdiction day after day. That local familiarity can translate to better strategy, faster filings, and fewer costly surprises.

Looking for additional District of Columbia attorneys? Browse all attorneys in Washington or all attorneys in District of Columbia.

Frequently Asked

Common Questions About Michael L. Bernstein

Where is Michael L. Bernstein's law office located?
Michael L. Bernstein's law practice is located in Washington, District of Columbia. The firm is Arnold And Porter Llp. You can contact the office directly through this profile page.
What practice areas does Michael L. Bernstein handle?
Michael L. Bernstein focuses on bankruptcy. Each practice area listed reflects experience handling cases of that type in District of Columbia.
How long has Michael L. Bernstein practiced law?
Michael L. Bernstein has 37+ years of legal experience and has been licensed since 1989.
Where did Michael L. Bernstein go to law school?
Michael L. Bernstein earned their education at (J.D., 1989); (B.A., 1986).
How can I contact Michael L. Bernstein for a consultation?
You can contact Michael L. Bernstein directly through this profile page. Click "Ask the Attorney" to submit a question, or "Schedule a Consultation" to book a meeting. Most claimed-profile attorneys respond within one business day.
What awards or recognition has Michael L. Bernstein received?
Michael L. Bernstein's notable recognition includes: AV Preeminent.

Professional Profile

Why Clients in Washington Choose Michael L. Bernstein

Selecting an attorney is one of the most consequential decisions you can make when a legal matter arises. Below are the core qualities that distinguish Michael L. Bernstein's practice in the field of bankruptcy.

Decade-Tested Legal Experience

Michael L. Bernstein brings 37+ years of hands-on legal practice — enough to have navigated the recurring fact patterns, procedural traps, and negotiation dynamics that shape case outcomes.

Multi-State Bar Admission

Licensed in Pennsylvania, District of Columbia, and U.S. Supreme Court, Michael L. Bernstein can represent clients in cases that span state lines or require counsel in multiple jurisdictions.

Focused Bankruptcy Practice

Concentrating on bankruptcy means Michael L. Bernstein's knowledge of relevant statutes, case law, and procedural nuances stays current — unlike generalist practices that spread attention across unrelated fields.

Local Presence in Washington

A Washington-based practice means Michael L. Bernstein attends hearings in the same courthouses, knows the local clerks, and understands the unwritten scheduling norms that affect every case filed here.

Case Types

Common Legal Issues Michael L. Bernstein Handles in Washington

Below is a representative sample of the types of matters Michael L. Bernstein has experience with under District of Columbia law. If your situation involves one of these case categories, this attorney may be well positioned to help you understand your options.

Chapter 7 liquidation
Bankruptcy
Chapter 13 repayment plans
Bankruptcy
Debt negotiation
Bankruptcy
Creditor harassment defense
Bankruptcy

This list is illustrative, not exhaustive. Contact Michael L. Bernstein directly to discuss the specifics of your situation.

Search Reference

How People Find Michael L. Bernstein Online

Prospective clients searching for legal help in Washington commonly use a combination of the attorney's name and their specific legal need. The following search terms frequently lead people to this profile and to attorneys like Michael L. Bernstein.

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If any of the above matches what you searched for, you've found the right profile. Use the contact options at the top of this page to get in touch with Michael L. Bernstein directly.

Michael L. Bernstein's Practice Areas & Specializations

Education & Law School Background

J.D.
Northwestern University
- 1989
B.A.
Brandeis University
- 1986

Awards & Professional Honors

AV Preeminent

Bar Admissions & Licensed Jurisdictions

Pennsylvania
Admitted: 1989
District of Columbia
Admitted: 1990
U.S. Supreme Court
Admitted: 2001

Client Reviews & Ratings — Michael L. Bernstein

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