Atty. Robert J. Semrad
Rob Semrad is a life-long Chicago resident and second-generation Chicago attorney. He graduated from DePaul Law in 1994 like many new law school grads, undecided about what area of law he wanted to practice.
Bankruptcy Attorney · Serving Chicago, IL · 32+ Years Experience
Profile Summary
About Robert J. Semrad at a Glance
Robert J. Semrad is a Senior Partner based in Chicago, Illinois, practicing at DebtStoppers. They have 32+ years of legal experience, licensed to practice since 1994. Their practice focuses on bankruptcy. Admitted to practice in Illinois (1994). Educated at DePaul University (J.D., 1994) and Winona State University (B.A., 1991). Serves clients in Chicago, IL and the surrounding metropolitan area.
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About Robert J. Semrad
- Rob Semrad is a life-long Chicago resident and second-generation Chicago attorney
- He graduated from DePaul Law in 1994 like many new law school grads, undecided about what area of law he wanted to practice
- But for Rob, his very first job out of school — working in a personal bankruptcy practice — made that decision for him
- Rob learned quickly that bankruptcy law gave him everything he wanted in a law career — the opportunity to do the most good for the greatest number of people
- Rob worked for that original firm for seven years, before purchasing it in 2003
- Re-christened "Robert J. Semrad & Associates" and with the trade name "DebtStoppers," Rob's firm went on to help thousands of families restructure and eliminate debt, save their homes, and start fresh through bankruptcy debt relief
- Rob's continuing commitment to his community and its financial education has never been more important to him than it is now — in the wake of the mortgage crisis caused by the lending practices of the mortgage industry, practices that have caused the greatest damage in minority communities
- After nearly 18 years of practicing bankruptcy law, Rob still gets the greatest satisfaction from standing up for the individual against the power and the abusive practices of the credit industry
Practice Areas Explained
Robert J. Semrad's Areas of Legal Practice
Each practice area below reflects the types of cases Robert J. Semrad handles, with a practical overview of what that area of law involves and how it may apply to your situation in Chicago.
Bankruptcy & Debt in Chicago
A bankruptcy attorney can help you eliminate debt, stop creditor harassment, and protect your home through Chapter 7 or Chapter 13.
Robert J. Semrad is one of 104,458 bankruptcy attorneys indexed nationally. Browse bankruptcy attorneys in Illinois →
Jurisdictional Context
Why Local Counsel Matters in Chicago
Practicing law in Illinois. Legal matters in Illinois are governed by state-specific rules of civil and criminal procedure, statutes of limitations, and substantive law. Cases originating in Chicago are typically filed in the local municipal court or the appropriate Illinois state district court, depending on subject matter and amount in controversy. An attorney licensed in Illinois 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 Illinois courts without local counsel or pro hac vice admission.
Chicago Courts and Legal Process
Choosing a Chicago-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 Illinois attorneys? Browse all attorneys in Chicago or all attorneys in Illinois.
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Professional Profile
Why Clients in Chicago Choose Robert J. Semrad
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 Robert J. Semrad's practice in the field of bankruptcy.
Decade-Tested Legal Experience
Robert J. Semrad brings 32+ years of hands-on legal practice — enough to have navigated the recurring fact patterns, procedural traps, and negotiation dynamics that shape case outcomes.
Focused Bankruptcy Practice
Concentrating on bankruptcy means Robert J. Semrad's knowledge of relevant statutes, case law, and procedural nuances stays current — unlike generalist practices that spread attention across unrelated fields.
Local Presence in Chicago
A Chicago-based practice means Robert J. Semrad 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 Robert J. Semrad Handles in Chicago
Below is a representative sample of the types of matters Robert J. Semrad has experience with under Illinois law. If your situation involves one of these case categories, this attorney may be well positioned to help you understand your options.
This list is illustrative, not exhaustive. Contact Robert J. Semrad directly to discuss the specifics of your situation.
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How People Find Robert J. Semrad Online
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Robert J. Semrad's Practice Areas & Specializations
Education & Law School Background
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