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Benjamin Patrick Payne

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney at Milwaukee, WI

5.0   15 reviews
  • Licensed for 21 years
    State WI
    Acquired 2002
    Status
    Good Standing No misconduct found

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

About Benjamin

Learn Benjamin’s areas of practice.

4
Practice areas
  1. Bankruptcy and debt
    40%
    I represent both debtors and creditors in Chapter 7, 11, and 13 bankruptcies and in receiverships. I represent both individuals and businesses and I advise other attorneys on matters involving bankruptcy issues.

    21 years

  2. Chapter 11 bankruptcy
    30%
    I represent individuals and companies in Chapter 11 bankruptcy cases on both the debtor side and creditor side, including representation of the unsecured creditors' committee and equity holders committee. I litigate all issues in Chapter 11 cases.

  3. Chapter 13 bankruptcy
    15%
    I represent individual debtors and individual and business creditors in all issues arising in Chapter 13 cases.

  4. Chapter 7 bankruptcy
    15%
    I represent individual debtors and individual and business creditors in all issues arising in Chapter 7 cases.

Benjamin Payne represents both creditors and people and businesses in need of bankruptcy protection. He was one of 2.5% of Wisconsin attorneys selected in 2006, 2007, 2009-2012 as a Rising Star in the field of bankruptcy and creditors’ rights by his peers and the Super Lawyers organization, was selected in 2013-2020 as a Super Lawyer by the same organization, and was named in the 2013-2020 editions of the Best Lawyers in America in the field of bankruptcy and creditor rights .

His clients include hundreds of individuals for whom he has filed Chapter 7 and 13 bankruptcy cases, as well as banks, credit unions, suppliers, and individuals seeking payment of their claims. He also represents financially troubled businesses trying to restructure their debt, negotiate workouts, file a receivership, or file a Chapter 11 bankruptcy.

Benjamin Payne has an undergraduate degree from the University of Wisconsin and received his Juris Doctor from Marquette Law School. He is a frequent lecturer on topics related to bankruptcy law and sits on the board of directors of the Bankruptcy, Insolvency, and Creditors’ Rights section of the Wisconsin State Bar. Attorney Payne is admitted to practice in the State of Wisconsin and to the Bankruptcy Courts for the Eastern and Western Districts of Wisconsin and the Northern District of Illinois. He has been admitted pro hac vice to Bankruptcy Courts around the country representing clients in preference defense cases.

Contact Benjamin

Similar lawyers nearby

Hanson & Payne, LLC
740 N. James Lovell St.
Milwaukee, WI, 53233-2408

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  15 customer reviews
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Posted by Tim | November 2, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Thank You!
Highly, highly recommend Ben. He's very honest and intelligent and really helped us out of a difficult situation. I'd give 10 stars if I could.
Posted by S.B. | November 8, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Exceptionally High Quality Attorney
I usually don't write reviews, I either forget, or am not invested enough to take the time to write my experience, or feel that the review platform is just for hearing my own voice. HOWEVER, I feel it important, this time, to write a review of Atty. Payne. I found myself in financial "hot water" this year and felt that I was stuck in a situation that had no end. I initially consulted with Atty. Payne and after spending an hour of time with me, I had not only a "road map" to solving my problem, but an increase in my knowledge about debt and debt collections and the bankruptcy process. He listened and offered advice based on my own situation, NOT some cookie cutter solution like you see on TV at 2 am. I suddenly had a plan, and steps to take to get out from under crushing debt and a pretty horrible situation. Atty. Payne helped me understand the plan, the steps, my options and was incredibly skilled in advising me without forcing me into a situation I wasn't comfortable with. If you're reading this review, you're likely in a similar situation and looking for an attorney to advise you. Take the step and hire Atty. Payne. You won't regret it. The piece of mind of knowing that there is someone advocating on your behalf is worth every penny. You may think that your situation has no solution or end, but believe me, having someone like Atty. Payne represent you and help you get your financial life back on track will be the best decision you make and an important first step to getting out from under the pressure of your problem. The sooner you start, the sooner it's over.
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Posted by Rod | April 6, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The Best
It's unfortunate I can't give Attorney Payne more than five stars because he deserves them. I interviewed four attorneys about a difficult situation; two highly respected in their field. They promised to guide me through a process. Attorney Payne offered a solution nobody else had suggested, and he didn't guide me through the process, he directed the process. He created a plan with contingencies for what might happen, explained clearly what he was doing and delivered the result he originally suggested. You will not be disappointed.
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Posted by Heather | December 13, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
FANTASTIC Attorney! Best in Milwaukee!
I have never met a better attorney.. too many bad ones in the bunch but this guy is *really* good. I hired him based on all of the positive reviews and it was a good move. He walked us through our case and gave us a very honest assessment of where we were and told us exactly what we needed to do next (Something our previous lawyer didn't tell us!) and he even saved us a TON Of money because he said it would be cheaper in our case to hire him hourly instead of paying a full case cost! He seemed super honest with his billing and genuinely interested in our well-being. His legal staff sent us the papers we needed right away via PDF and told us what we need to do with them (mail, sign, etc).. all very clear! We will be using his services in the future if we need them. Highly recommended!
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Posted by anonymous | March 31, 2014
Ben skillfully guides you through the unknown
Ben did an excellent job in guiding us through a challenging process. He helped us prepare mentally and legally for our case. He met and exceeded our expectations..
Posted by anonymous | January 11, 2013
Excellent Service
My experience was very good. He was very honest and told me exactly what I needed to do and what documents to have. The communication was always good and I was given very useful information. I would definitely reccommend.
Posted by Karen and Marty | October 4, 2010
FANTASTIC
Ben is the best!!! His knowledge of the law is remarkable. He made an unthinkable situation very manageable. Kept us updated and informed. Would not even think of using another attorney. Call him today!!!!!
Posted by Ron | September 30, 2010
Absolutely the best Attorney in Wisconsin! Without a doubt!
When you have been put into the impossible position that we had been, looking at zero options, it is an absolute breath of fresh air to be represented by an attorney that has the knowledge, and expertise to deal with one of the toughest cases possible. We were faced with personal liability for a failed business, which seemed to be taking away our very souls, with not a single person other than Ben, willing to help or even try to determine a viable outcome. Throughout the entire process, Ben has been extremely forth coming, informing us of every possibility, whether it was a course of action we would like or not. Having the knowledge and experience to help us make the best possible choices thru this incredibly difficult time, we just cannot say enough about Ben!
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Posted by JIM | September 7, 2010
BUILDING FORECLOSER AND BANKRUPTCY
BEN is my hero!! Being knowledgeable and professionial at his job,BEN, has helped me out of a huge forecloser problem.He kept me informed and at ease.I was on the path to bankruptcy court and forecloser fees. My life looked very bad.Bens knowledge of the laws and geniune skill kept me out of courts and from losing my property and my mind ! i would also like to thank Bens MOTHER AND FATHER for sending him to college to be this great attorney.
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Posted by cynthia | December 10, 2009
The best bankruptcy lawyer in Wisconsin
Mr. Payne represented us in a rather difficult bankruptcy case. We had just moved from out of state and needed assistance. I was amazed at the amount of knowledge Mr. Payne has on out of state laws. He was always available for questions and put my mind at ease. I could not have asked for a more competent attorney.
Posted by Art | September 6, 2009
Lost our business
Ben was very not only extremely knowledgable about the law and our situation, he was also very compassionate, timely, supportive, flexible with his schedule to accomodate our crazy schedule, and just great to work with. Our whole case could not have gone more smoothly. We highly recommend him. Also, it was very nice dealing with a lawyer whose quote was his price - no hidden extras !!
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Posted by Kevin | September 1, 2009
Finally, a lawyer who looks out for me
We have dealt with several lawyers going through a bankruptcy and foreclosure situation over the last couple of years. We have struggled to get more than just form letters and more billing every time we want to get advice, direction, or current status info. Since Ben was referred to us by another attorney friend, we have been able to breathe easy again. He was able to step in and put us on a clear path to resolve our situation.
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Posted by anonymous | August 31, 2009
bankruptcy
He was a guiding light through a tough time....very knowledgable and firm.....helpful and accurate! I would highly recommend him to anyone!
Posted by Steve & Sue | August 31, 2009
Ben Payne
After being in business for 30 years I had the unfortunate experience of entering a business venture with a very rich friend of 25 years. He took me to the cleaners but good and we had to file bankruptcy. After being very well off, we lost everything. But Ben Payne made a very stressful and tragic experience into as good an ending as was possible. Ben actually cared about us and out situation. I have worked with many attorneys during my business career and he was the only attorney I have ever met who really and truly "Gave a damn"!!! We cannot say enough about Ben. He was the most knowledgeable attorney I have ever hired. He handled our case efficiently and quickly and treated us both with the utmost respect. I would say more about him if your website worked properly but unfortunately it does not. Bottom line, Ben Payne is the GREATEST!!!
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Posted by J&J | August 31, 2009
Thank you Ben! You have helped us through a very difficult decision and process
Making the decision to file bankruptcy was not any easy one for us. When we found Ben Payne, we were not certain that we wanted to go down this path; but yet we had no idea of what we were going to do. Ben was very gracious and geniune providing us insight into our options. He was very informative and provided us with all the information that we needed step by step. He guided us along the entire process and was always an email or phone call away. Ben knows his stuff and is well versed on the recent changes to the bankruptcy laws and codes. He is very professional, knowledegable, tough when the need arises and yet remains a calming presence when you need it. Ben offers solutions to fresh beginnings. We are very blessed to have met Ben and thankful to have him on our side! You would too.
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Cost

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Contact for Details

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Partner
  • Hanson & Payne, LLC
  • 2004 - Present

Education

  • Marquette U
  • law
  • 2002

Associations

  • Eastern District of Wisconsin Bar Association
  • Board Member
  • 2020 - Present
  • Eastern District of Wisconsin Bar Association
  • Bankruptcy Committee Co-Chair
  • 2019 - Present
  • State Bar of Wisconsin - Bankruptcy, Insolvency and Creditors Rights Section
  • Board Member
  • 2017 - Present
  • Collier Family Law and the Bankruptcy Code treatise
  • Editor: Special Issues Involving Community Property
  • 2016 - Present
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Super Layer - Bankruptcy and Creditors Rights
  • SuperLawyers
  • 2021
  • Best Lawyers in America - Bankruptcy and Creditors Rights
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2021
  • Super Layer - Bankruptcy and Creditors Rights
  • SuperLawyers
  • 2020
  • Best Lawyers in America - Bankruptcy and Creditors Rights
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2020
  • Super Lawyer - Bankruptcy and Creditors Rights
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2019
  • Best Lawyers in America - Bankruptcy and Creditors Rights
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2019
  • Super Lawyer - Bankruptcy and Creditors Rights
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2018
  • Best Lawyers in America - Bankruptcy and Creditors Rights
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2018
  • Super Lawyer - Bankruptcy and Creditors Rights
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2017
  • Best Laywers in America - Bankruptcy and Creditors Rights
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2017
  • Super Lawyer - Bankruptcy and Creditors Rights
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2016
  • Best Lawyers in America - Bankruptcy and Creditors Rights
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2016
  • Best Lawyers in America - Bankruptcy and Creditors Rights
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2015
  • Super Lawyer - Bankruptcy and Creditors Rights
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2015
  • Best Lawyers in America - Bankruptcy and Creditors Rights
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2014
  • Super Lawyer - Bankruptcy and Creditors Rights
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2014
  • Best Law Firm - Bankruptcy and Creditors Rights
  • US News & World Report
  • 2013
  • Best Lawyers in America - Bankruptcy and Creditors Rights
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • 2013
  • Super Lawyers - Bankrutpcy and Creditors Rights
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2013
  • Best Law Firm - Bankruptcy and Creditors Rights
  • US News & World Report
  • 2012
  • Super Lawyers - Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2012
  • Best Law Firms - Bankruptcy and Creditors Rights
  • US News & World Report
  • 2011
  • Super Lawyers - Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2011
  • Best Law Firm - Hanson & Payne, LLC
  • US News & World Report
  • 2010
  • Super Lawyers - Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2010
  • Super Lawyers - Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2009
  • Super Lawyers - Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2007
  • Super Lawyers - Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2006
  • Super Lawyer - Bankruptcy and Creditors Rights
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • N/A
View all awards

Publications

  • Eastern District of Wisconsin Bar Association
  • Fee Applications in Bankruptcy Cases
  • 2018
  • Wisconsin State Bar - Family Law Section
  • Bankruptcy Strategies in the Context of Divorce
  • 2017
  • Wisconsin State Bar
  • Bankruptcy Strategies in Context of Divorce
  • 2009
  • National Business Institute
  • Automatic Stay Litigation in a Nutshell
  • 2009
  • National Business Institute
  • Nuts and Bolts of Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
  • 2008
View all publications

Speaking Engagements

  • ABI - Central States Conference
  • The Small Business Owner's Chapter 13
  • 2019
  • Annual Meeting - Eastern District of Wis. Bar Assoc.
  • Fee Applications in Bankruptcy Cases
  • 2018
  • Inns of Court
  • Bankruptcy Strategies in the Context of Divorce
  • 2017
  • Milwaukee Bar Association Continuing Legal Education Program
  • Marital Property and Bankruptcy Issues
  • 2013
  • 2012 Annual Bankruptcy Update
  • Initiating Involuntary Receiverships
  • 2012
  • Protecting the Creditor's Rights in Bankruptcy
  • Automatic Stay Issues and Non-Dischargeability Actions
  • 2011
  • Protecting the Creditor's Rights During Bankruptcy
  • Automatic Stay Litigation and Representing Creditors in Adversary Proceedings
  • 2010
  • Colleciton Law from Start to Finish
  • Collection Law from Start to Finish
  • 2010
  • Real Estate Law: Advanced Issues and Answers
  • Creditor and Bankruptcy Issues in Real Estate Practice
  • 2010
  • Nuts and Bolts of Bankruptcy Law
  • Automatic Stay Issues, Ethical Representation in Bankruptcy Cases, Managing the Bankruptcy Filing Process
  • 2010
  • Divorce Issues In Bankruptcy
  • Interaction of Bankrutpcy Law and Divorce Issues
  • 2009
  • Nuts and Bolts of Bankruptcy Law
  • Automatic Stay litigation / Ethics Issues in Bankruptcy Practice
  • 2009
  • Nuts and Bolts of Bankruptcy
  • Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Law
  • 2008
  • Bankruptcy Issues in Divorce
  • Interaction of Bankruptcy and Divorce Law
  • 2007
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (4)
Given (2)
Endorse Benjamin
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Sep 22
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse Attorney Payne. I have worked collaboratively with and adversely against Ben on several matters. He fights hard for his clients, is well versed in his practice, and is a respected member of our legal community."
Chapter 13 bankruptcy Attorney | May 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Astounding. I'm an attorney in New Jersey and read his answer on Avvo, which answered a BK question that was plaguing me. He additionally followed up via email. Top guy - if I need a BK attorney in Wisconsin, he'd absolutely be my top referral."
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Feb 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Attorney Payne demonstrates an exceptional breadth of knowledge and expertise throughout his areas of practice. I would highly recommend Atty. Payne to anyone in need of a great lawyer."
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Nov 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have known Attorney Payne for almost a decade now. Whenever I have a legal question concerning debtor rights, creditor rights, bankruptcy issues, commercial/business issues, and the like, he is the first and only person I ever need to call for an answer. I have had no hesitation referring my own clients, friends, and family members to him for the legal services that he provides. If you are looking for a lawyer in his practice areas, I strongly encourage viewing his firm’s website, www.hansonpayne.com, to learn more about how he can help you."