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David R. Chenelle

Chapter 7 bankruptcy Attorney at Westford, MA

4.8   19 reviews
This attorney is currently not accepting new clients.
Reason: Not Practicing
This attorney is currently not accepting new clients.
Reason: Not Practicing
  • State Years
    New Hampshire - NH 27 years
    Massachusetts - MA 28 years
  • Licensed for 27 years
    State NH
    Acquired 1996
    Status
    Active No misconduct found
  • Licensed for 28 years
    State MA
    Acquired 1995
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

About David

Learn David’s areas of practice.

5
Practice areas
  1. Chapter 7 bankruptcy
    45%
    An advocate in the representation of consumer, commercial and business clients in the United States Bankruptcy Court. My practice involves all aspects of bankruptcy including cases filed as Chapter 7, Chapter 11 and Chapter 13. I am dedicated to helping you regain control of your finances and ultimately, your life. I provide personalized, dedicated service to my clients who are overburdened by debt and wish to make a clean financial start.

    28 years, 3,400 cases

  2. Other
    39%

  3. Chapter 13 bankruptcy
    10%
    An advocate in the representation of consumer, commercial and business clients in the United States Bankruptcy Court. My practice involves all aspects of bankruptcy including cases filed as Chapter 7, Chapter 11 and Chapter 13. I am dedicated to helping you regain control of your finances and ultimately, your life. I provide personalized, dedicated service to my clients who are overburdened by debt and wish to make a clean financial start.

    28 years, 925 cases

  4. Bankruptcy and debt
    5%
    An advocate in the representation of the commercial and business clients in the United States Bankruptcy Court. My practice involves all aspects of bankruptcy including cases filed as Chapter 7, Chapter 11 and Chapter 13. I am dedicated to helping you regain control of your finances and ultimately, your life. I provide personalized, dedicated service to my clients who are overburdened by debt and wish to make a clean financial start.

    28 years, 250 cases

  5. Chapter 11 bankruptcy
    1%
    An advocate in the representation of consumer, commercial and business clients in the United States Bankruptcy Court. My practice involves all aspects of bankruptcy including cases filed as Chapter 7, Chapter 11 and Chapter 13. I am dedicated to helping you regain control of your finances and ultimately, your life. I provide personalized, dedicated service to my clients who are overburdened by debt and wish to make a clean financial start.

    17 years, 34 cases

 

Attorney Chenelle joined Perkins & Anctil, P.C., in 2011, is a Partner of the firm and serves as the Director of the Lien Enforcement and Bankruptcy Departments. He is well-known and respected in the legal community and is known for his ability to think creatively when solving complex legal matters at both the State and Federal levels.

 

Attorney Chenelle is known as a fierce advocate and has represented thousands of individual consumer and business clients in both the State and Federal courts including the United States Bankruptcy Court.  He works closely with our clients in an empathic manner and draws from his decades of experience when advising and guiding clients through the legal process.

 

 

He is an active member of the Massachusetts Bar Association, New Hampshire Bar Association, past Co-Chair of the Worcester Bar Association’s Bankruptcy Section for 7 years; a member of the Local Rules Committee for the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, District of Massachusetts; the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys (NACBA); the American Bankruptcy Institute (ABI) for which he lectures at ABI conferences; is the Chair and Member of the Client Security Board of the Supreme Judicial Court; and has been appointed by the Supreme Judicial Court as a Commissioner in Attorney Suspension cases.

 

In his earlier professional career, Attorney Chenelle spent 14 years in the manufacturing industry working as an engineer and manager for various defense contractors.  Thereafter he received his Juris Doctorate in 1995.

Photos and videos

Contact David

Perkins & Anctil, P.C.
6 Lyberty Way.
Suite 201
Westford, MA, 01886

Reviews

4.8 / 5.0
  19 customer reviews
5 Star
 
95%
4 Star
 
0%
3 Star
 
0%
2 Star
 
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1 Star
 
5%
Posted by Derek | July 13, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
David...is like hiring family
We...were scared out if our mind going into bankruptcy. David made us feel comfortable every step of the way,even answering ancient attack phonecalls from me with what little free time the man has on a whim. It feels like having a family member nearby who wants to see you do well. As someone with severe anxiety I can't tell you how hard it was for me to approach bankruptcy,I'm glad I found David when I did.
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Response from David Chenelle July 14, 2021
Derek, Thank you for your kind words, and I'm glad that it worked out for you!
Posted by Greg | June 28, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Service
Attorney David Chenelle took over my case when my lawyer was no longer able to serve me. He has been of the upmost help to me in my case. When I reach out to him with questions via phone or email if I don't reach him directly he will always get right back to me. I find him to be very professional and knowledgeable. I would highly recommend him.
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Response from David Chenelle June 28, 2021
Greg, thank you for your kind words. I'm glad I could be of assistance!
Posted by John | April 8, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Help and educated through a very painful bankruptcy!
I hired David Chenelle from Perkins & Anctil to represent me. I was in need of someone to deal with a personal and small business bankruptcy from start to finish. Not to mention dealing with a person ignorant to the process and having a problem with the emotions of the situation. I am very pleased with his knowledge, his efficiency and getting the job done on time and on budget. I thank David for a job well done, his people skills and dealing with me and the emotional state I was going through.
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Response from David Chenelle April 9, 2020
Thank you for your kind words! Be well and stay safe!
Posted by Sean | April 2, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Counsel Above Reproach!
The bankruptcy legal process can be daunting and emotions will, undoubtedly, run high. I wasn't sure what to expect, but David did an amazing job of detailing the process thoroughly. He avoided telling me what he thought I wanted to hear and didn't shy away from realistic expectations. Additionally, my particular case threw David an unlikely curveball that he handled with tremendous poise and was quick to bring me up to speed with what was required. Lastly, his communication was ALWAYS timely and concise throughout the process; a quality that is always desired but rarely fulfilled by people. I couldn't have asked for a better lawyer to help navigate me through uncharted waters. I promise you won't be disappointed.
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Response from David Chenelle April 3, 2020
Thank you for you kind words. I'm glad that it all worked out for you!
Posted by Ed and Jan | March 23, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Our chapter 7
David Chenelle was recommended to us by a friends lawyer. David was able to help us in a timely, thoughtful and articulate manner with our case. He gave us excellent advise on making some very difficult decisions. We highly recommend David.
Response from David Chenelle March 26, 2020
Thank you for your kind words! Be well.
Posted by Jim | October 28, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Expert Advice, Good Attention to Detail, Easy to Work with
I had a rather complicated bankruptcy situation which took quite some time to resolve because of complications outside our control. David gave great advice all the way through and knew how to get things done and how to help me plan and decide what to do. He spent a lot of time with me making sure I understood what was possible, what was happening and next steps for success. Which it all was in the end and would not have been without him in my corner!
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Response from David Chenelle March 18, 2020
I'm glad that I could be of assistance!
Posted by Pate | March 29, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best Bankruptcy Attorney in MA - Saved Me
I highly recommend David because he saved me from an awful situation. He is professional, acts quickly, cares about you and your case, and is superb at reprenting you in and out of court. As background, I lost my job when the company I worked for was acquired during the economic downturn. I found myself living off a credit card just to survive — not because I bought a bunch of stuff I didn’t need, but because I lost a very good paying job, couldn’t find a similar one, and found that I couldn’t pay my bills any more — much less groceries every week. I kept trying to turn things around but nothing worked. When it became obvious that declaring bankruptcy was the only solution, I contracted an attorney in Boston who (forgive my ongoing bitterness about it 8 years later), royally messed up my case. He waited months before doing anything. He never remembered my name. The calls from creditors didn’t stop. And worst of all, he saddled me with a huge bankruptcy payment that was more than the amount of my bills before the bankruptcy! It was a nightmare beyond anything I’d ever imagined. So just so you know, not all attorneys are created equal and it is possible for a bad attorney to make things worse! It completely ruined my life and honestly I’ll never recover from it. After all these years, I still flinch when the phone rings. Once I realized that no amount of complaining or calling his office for help was going to improve things, I fired him and set out to find a new attorney. Luckily I found David, and he did, in fact, turn my whole life around. All of a sudden, the calls stopped, He listened to me and treated me with respect. I had a payment I could actually make, and my life could move forward. I honestly don’t have the right words to express how much I appreciate him. All the things the other attorney did wrong, he did right. In short, the purpose of a bankruptcy is to improve your life — NOT make it worse! Bankruptcy can happen to anyone — for a variety of reasons — some of which you have no control over and there is a huge stigma attached to it. David can step in, get things under control, force people and companies to stop harassing you, and will help you get your life back on track. At this point in my review, I feel that I should find something bad to say about David, but I just don’t have anything — sorry! Since I’m sure David will see my review at some point, I just want to reiterate how much I appreciate your help and will never forget it. You truly changed my life for the better. Thx again — and I still owe you a huge gift basket. :)
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Response from David Chenelle March 18, 2020
I'm glad that I could be of assistance!
Posted by EDWARD | September 14, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
SETTLED & ADVISED ON MY BANKRUPTCY
I was not certain of my options .David helped me through and kept me posted on all events. His guidance throughout the procedure and his confidence helped me make it through. He always answered questions completely and was always available in the course of my case and has been there after he finished as well to answer any questions for me. I would highly recommend him .
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Response from David Chenelle March 18, 2020
I'm glad that I could be of assistance!
Posted by Deborah | August 7, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Always there to answer my questions
I was so nervous filing my case but Atty Chenelle was so assuring, knowledgeable and easy to talk to, he put me right at ease. Walked me threw everything including the hearing day. I was so nervous and he was so calm! Everything he said would happen did. Any time I had questions, he always emailed me or returned my call pretty quick. I was always kept up to date with anything going on with my case. In my past profession I've dealt with many attorneys. I don't think I've ever met a more down to earth, approachable and very professional attorney. I would highly recommend Attorney David Chenelle if you looking for an attorney.
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Response from David Chenelle March 18, 2020
I'm glad that I could be of assistance!
Posted by anonymous | June 6, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Attorney!
After enduring several personal and financial hardships in a close span of time, it became clear to my husband and I that filing for bankruptcy was inevitable. We had fallen behind on our mortgage, our requests for modification had been denied by our servicer, and we were facing foreclosure. It was demoralizing, humiliating, and hopeless. I contacted a few attorneys who I researched online, but found them to be either too aggressive, or willing to give legal advice without fully analyzing our situation, which made me a bit nervous. More research led me to Attorney Chenelle’s website, but I figured his years of experience would come with a hefty price tag. I contacted Atty. Chenelle’s office and spoke with his paralegal, Cynthia. She was so kind, and assured me that many people, from all walks of life file for bankruptcy, and that more often than not it was the best decision clients made. She quoted us a price, which surprisingly, was in line if not less than what we had been previously quoted by other offices. She was very accommodating to our needs in scheduling the initial appointment, and we were able to meet with Atty. Chenelle by the end of that week. At our first meeting, we were instantly put at ease by Atty. Chenelle’s friendly demeanor. He explained our options and the process in easy to understand language. His mastery of bankruptcy law was impressive, and he answered all of my never-ending questions with a smile. He helped us work out a reasonable budget, and made some great financial recommendations. Over the course of this process, he has been prompt in responding to emails and phone calls, and has kept us well-informed. He has treated the both of us with respect from the get go, and I really appreciate that. It is such a wonderful feeling to be moving forward from the financial mess we were in, and we are so grateful to Atty. Chenelle and his office for guiding us through a very dark and difficult time. I highly recommend Atty. Chenelle.
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Response from David Chenelle March 18, 2020
I'm glad that I could be of assistance!
Posted by anonymous | May 15, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Very happy I found him and would highly recommend!
I started thinking about bankruptcy and decided I needed to meet with an attorney to discuss all possibilities, etc. I had no idea where to find a reputable attorney specializing in bankruptcy. I found David on an internet search for 'best bankruptcy attorneys' in my area. I called and made an appointment for a consultation. He stayed late to accommodate my request for an early evening appointment. He spent an incredible amount of time with me, asking many questions and also educating me about every step of the whole process. He did not make me feel judged, embarrassed or anything other than someone that needed help. And it's tough divulging all of your monetary problems with a complete stranger. He made it seamless and I knew I was in good hands. He is established in his career, well-known and respected within the court system and his colleagues. Any time I had a question or was unsure about something, I could text or call him. He always responded the same day and never made me feel as though I was inconveniencing him. The whole process went very smoothly and I knew exactly what was happening, as he kept me well informed. I could not have found a better attorney to help me with what could have been a terrifying experience. I guarantee, you will not regret hiring him! Thank you David!
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Response from David Chenelle May 26, 2017
I'm glad that I could be of assistance!
Posted by anonymous | June 4, 2014
Completely satisfied with my decision to hire Attorney Chenelle
David was professional and competent with regard to my legal matters. He was personable, easily accessible and thorough in his explanations of the process (therefore I had few questions to ask). I would recommend Attorney Chenelle for legal services.
Response from David Chenelle March 18, 2020
I'm glad that I could be of assistance!
Posted by Ted | February 10, 2014
Excellent attorney
I highly recommend Attorney David Chenelle. Two years ago my wife and I were in a very difficult place financially with no alternative but to file bankruptcy. David’s calm and patient demeanor made that painful time in our lives more bearable. We were amazed at his patience and willingness to help. We never felt judged. He guided us through the process with his expert knowledge, professionalism, compassion and integrity. Two years later, he still answers our calls and questions. This is an attorney who really cares about his clients and their situations. He always has your best interest in mind.
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Response from David Chenelle March 18, 2020
I'm glad that I could be of assistance!
Posted by anonymous | May 13, 2013
Excellent- Look no further!
Hired David to help with my Chapter 7. He was always readily available to answer my questions, even on the weekend. The communication aspect is impeccable and by far, one of the most professional attorney's I have ever met. When he said he would do something, he did it, without wasted time. He really cared about helping me and explained all my options. I would only recommened David if I ever had the need to refer a friend or family member.
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Response from David Chenelle March 18, 2020
I'm glad that I could be of assistance!
Posted by Jesse | April 11, 2012
A highly recommended Bankruptcy Attorney, don't look any further if you need Bankruptcy assistance
David came highly recommended from our family attorney when we called him looking for advice on the possibility of bankruptcy. Our attorney said he has heard very good things from clients he has recommended to David. We were not disappointed. David clearly explained what our options would be since we had a very complicated situation. He answered all of our questions and was extremely patient with us. He responds to email questions within the day, most of the time within the hour. He helped make a very stressful situation easier to handle due to his knowledge and fantastic personality. We would highly recommend his services.
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Response from David Chenelle March 18, 2020
I'm glad that I could be of assistance!
Posted by Sheri | January 11, 2012
Recommended for anyone who is thinking of filing bankruptcy
David is very kind and understanding. This was felt from our first meeting with David. He made us feel at ease and that not all was lost. His experience has helped us in so many ways to get back on track. David does not sugar coat anything and described our best options. He will give his honest guidance when asked. His advice has always been spot on. He is very comforting and supports a sense of confidence in all that he does. My experience with him has been great. He is the best and I could not say enough about him.
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Posted by Brad | January 10, 2012
A Lawyer Worth Hiring
From my first meeting with David it was clear to me that his experience would be a great asset in handling my case. After a brief Q&A, David described for me my options, what each choice would entale, and even gave me guidance when asked. His advise through not just the discovery and preparation phases but making sure the court proceedure went smoothly was very comforting and gave me a sense of confidence. David is organized, responsive, and understanding. My experience with him was great.
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Posted by Joe | January 10, 2012
Why not the very best
I discovered David Chenelle through Legalzoom, and it was the luckiest and best thing that could have happened. He made everything easy and easy to understand, and as stress free as it could have been. I never doubted for a minute that I was in the best possible hands. He was great.
Posted by anonymous | February 14, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Arrogant lawyer
I don’t know why every time I write a (negative) review here it disappears! I hired David Chenelle a few years ago to help me with a bankruptcy. I found him to be rude and insensitive. I also think he did something wrong when he claimed that Mass. had changed the way it did bankruptcy and so I would have to pay to have him redo my case. (?) He also claimed that I hadn’t paid him when I had. I had to go to the bank and get physical copies of the checks, endorsed by him, to prove it. What lawyer operates like that? I would definitely not recommend him. (Let’s see how long this review stays up!)
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Response from David Chenelle February 15, 2023
Unfortunately, I cannot comment on your specific concerns as you did not leave your name, but I can honestly say that the statements you are making about me did not happen. I have never acted in the way you are describing. Also, I have not taken on new bankruptcy clients since 2019, but when I did have an active bankruptcy practice, payments were run through my office manager and never have I endorsed a check as you indicated. Perhaps if you reached out to me to discuss your concerns, we could have resolved them.
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 60 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check

Resume

AVVO RATING 9.6 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Partner
  • Perkins & Anctil, P.C.
  • 2011 - Present
  • Partner
  • D'Amico & Chenelle
  • 2007 - 2011
  • Partner
  • Mitchell & Chenelle, P.C.
  • 1997 - 2006
  • Attorney
  • Basbanes & Chenelle
  • 1995 - 1997
  • Senior Engineer
  • General Dynamics Corp.
  • 1983 - 1993
View all work experience

Education

  • Massachusetts School of Law at Andover
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1995
  • University of New Haven
  • MBA - Master of Business Administration
  • 1989
  • University of Massachusetts, Lowell
  • BS - Bachelor of Science
  • 1979

Associations

  • Client Security Board of the Supreme Judicial Court of MA
  • Chair
  • 2018 - Present
  • Local Rules Committee, District of MA, Bankruptcy Court
  • Memeber
  • 2015 - Present
  • American Bankruptcy Institute
  • Member
  • 2009 - Present
  • National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys
  • Member
  • 2009 - Present
  • New Hampshire Bar Association
  • Member
  • 1996 - Present
  • Worcester County Bar Association, Bankruptcy Law Section
  • Co-chair
  • 2011 - 2018
  • Worcester County Bar Association, Bankruptcy Law Section
  • Executive Board
  • 2010 - 2011
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Pro Bono Publico Service Award
  • US Bankruptcy Court District of MA
  • 2020

Speaking Engagements

  • New Hampshire Expo
  • Condominium Law Review
  • 2017
  • New England Bankruptcy Law Conference 2017
  • Consumer Panel: Disappearing Exemptions in Consumer Cases
  • 2017
  • ABI Northeast Consumer Forum
  • The Storm II: Remain Calm and Carry On
  • 2013

Attorney endorsements

Received (9)
Given (2)
Endorse David
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Jun 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Attorney David Chenelle is the premier expert in the area of bankruptcy law in this community. He is very generous in his willingness to share his expansive knowledge of bankruptcy practice and procedure. Attorney Chenelle is very professional and goes above and beyond to assist his clients. He also works tirelessly for the bankruptcy section of the Worcester Bar Association, always bringing current issues and speakers to the meetings. I am very fortunate to have David as a colleague and will continue to recommend him to those seeking bankruptcy advice and guidance."
Chapter 7 bankruptcy Attorney | Jun 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"David Chenelle has a wealth of knowledge in the bankruptcy field. He has been a source for me many times when I have come across issues with bankruptcy filings. He is always willing to share his knowledge and expertise. All of me dealings with Dave have been pleasant and professional. I have yet to come across a bankruptcy issue that Dave does not know the answer to. I am grateful for his generous sharing of knowledge and time. I have, and will continue to refer clients to Dave as I am confident in his ability to represent them."
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Feb 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Attorney David Chenelle is one of the best attorneys in our area. He leads our County Bankruptcy Bar and is quick to help other attorneys with questions. I have never heard anything but great reviews about his work. He has a wealth of knowledge and is a very trusted and respected attorney in our community. I endorse this lawyer."
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Jun 11
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I have had the pleasure of being a colleague of Attorney Chenelle. I am very familiar with his work in the bankruptcy field. Attorney Chenelle has also been very generous with me in sharing his knowledge of bankruptcy. Attorney Chenelle is one of the premier bankruptcy attorneys in Massachusetts. He possesses keen analytic skills that allow him to grasp key facts and issues involved in a client's case. He has a deep fund of knowledge of bankruptcy law. Bankruptcy law if very complicated and dynamic. Attorney Chenelle has the ability to creatively apply his knowledge to solve thorny bankruptcy problems."
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Jun 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have found David to be very knowledgable with respect to bankruptcy. When I have a bankruptcy issue or question come up in my practice I do not hesitate in referring David to my clients for assistance with all things Bankruptcy."
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Sep 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have know David on a personal and professional level for more than 20 years. David is extremely knowledgeable in the area of Bankruptcy law. David is very professional and is willing to go above and beyond for his clients and colleagues. David has been an excellent source of information for me in my bankruptcy practice. He responds quickly to any and all questions I may have as well as questions his clients have. I know David to be a caring and thoughtful individual. I have referred client's to David and he has treated them with respect and kept them informed of their case. David is a well respected Bankruptcy Attorney among members of the bench and bar. If you are in need of a Bankruptcy Attorney, I would highly recommend David."
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Jul 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Chenelle is a well experienced attorney that is active in the community and donates his time to help improve the legal profession for all."
Chapter 13 bankruptcy Attorney | May 03
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I met David Chenelle a few years back over a rather sticky issue that I really had no idea how to unravel. David did. In fact, he not only unraveled it for me, he did so simply because I asked. I was a young attorney who needed a little help. David didn’t hesitate. That’s who he is – a kind, generous and gifted attorney. There is no one in his field who is more respected than he is. David is the lawyer who other lawyers call for advice. He knows not only the substance of the law, but how to make it work to his clients’ advantage. At court, he is a highly regarded advocate. He is known by both bar and bench as someone to be reckoned with. I know from the referrals I have sent to David over the years that he promptly returns phone calls, he clearly explains the benefits of different strategies and he values a client’s input. There is no attorney I can recommend more highly than David Chenelle, and it my pleasure to do so."
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Apr 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have known David Chenelle for about 4 years and have been impressed with his vast knowledge of bankruptcy law and procedure. David has mentored me in my own bankruptcy law practice and has been very generous with his time in offering insight regarding complex issues of bankruptcy. David has continuously offered his expertise for no other reason than to assist a colleague. He is professional, personable and dedicated to the practice of bankruptcy law. I truly value our relationship and I would highly recommend David to others looking for competent legal guidance in bankruptcy law."
View more endorsements
Bankruptcy and debt
Westford Chapter 7 bankruptcy Lawyer David R. Chenelle
David R. Chenelle
Chapter 7 bankruptcy Attorney
Westford, MA
Licensed for 28 years
Free Consultation