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Stuart Bradley Handelman

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney at Chicago, IL

5.0   327 reviews
Free consultation Virtual consultation available
Free consultation Virtual consultation available
  • Licensed for 35 years
    State IL
    Acquired 1987
    Status
    Active and Authorized to Practice Law No misconduct found

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

About Stuart

Learn Stuart’s areas of practice.

2
Practice areas
  1. Bankruptcy and debt
    72%
    Chapter 7 and Chapter 13. Our law practice limited to helping people file for debt relief under Federal Bankruptcy law. We are a Federal Debt Relief Agency.

    33 years, 7,357 cases

  2. Debt settlement
    28%
    Bankruptcy is not the only solution to debts problems. We often are able to help clients with debt settlements.

    33 years, 753 cases

REPRESENTING CLIENT RESIDING IN COOK, DUPAGE, GRUNDY, KENDALL, KANE, LAKE, LASALLE & WILL COUNTIES.

Stuart opened The Law Offices of Stuart B. Handelman, P.C. in 1992.

 

Since its inception, the law firm has been devoted to treating their clients with the respect, and financial relief they deserve.

 

The firm is composed of three lawyers: Stuart B. Handelman, Jean M. Huang and Kelly Smith. These three attorneys have worked together as a team for over twenty years. They are knowledgeable and compassionate professionals, who are strong advocates for their clients. They pride themselves with being approachable, responsive, and supportive of their clients in difficult, sensitive situations.

Awards

Client's Choice 2023,2022,2021,2020,2019,2018,2017,2016,2015,2014,2013,2012,2011
Client's Choice
2023 2022 2021 + 10 ...
Top Contributor 2013
Top Contributor
2013

Photos and videos

Contact Stuart

The Law Offices of Stuart B. Handelman
30 N. Michigan Avenue, Suite 1603
Chicago, IL, 60602
The Law Offices Of Stuart B. Handelman, PC
310 N. Hammes Ave Suite 201G
Joliet, IL, 60435
The Law Offices Of Stuart B. Handelman, PC
9760 South Roberts Rd. Suite 1
Palos Hills, IL, 60457
The Law Offices Of Stuart B. Handelman, PC
20200 Governors Drive
Suite 201E
Olympia Fields, IL, 60461
The Law Offices Of Stuart B. Handelman, PC
4544 W. 103rd Street, Suite 102
Oak Lawn, IL, 60453
Hide locations

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  327 customer reviews
Client's Choice 2023
Client's Choice
Client's Choice is an Avvo award granted to attorneys with a significant number of client reviews over 4 stars in a given year.
Posted by FilAmRN | September 20, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Caring and exceptional
I was unable to work for 2 years due to medical condition and got behind on paying my bills and received 2 lawsuits from credit cards. Atty Stuart Handelman and his team, with Atty Jean Huang and Atty Kelly worked with me attentively and provided me with great support and filed my Chapter 13 successfully. I am now on the road to debt relief and financial freedom. I can’t thank them enough. They are honest, hardworking and very efficient and will give you advice as to what to do and what to expect throughout the process. They provided me with all the necessary information especially in preparing me for my 341 meeting and follow up information throughout the process. Atty. Stuart Handelman worked with me very patiently in collecting and preparing all the necessary documents and throughly reviewed all of them with me for accuracy and provided me with the appropriate actions needed on my situation. Atty Kelly prepared all the documents once it was finalized before filing communicated updates with me once my case was filed. Atty. Jean Huang worked very efficiently and diligently communicated everything with me in a very timely manner with regards to any updates/status of my case with regards to creditors meeting and hearings. I can’t thank them all enough. They are not just bankruptcy lawyers, they made me feel that I have the support of a family, that I can trust them and I relied on their expertise and gave me peace of mind which is priceless!!!
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Posted by John | September 19, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Stuart made the process a breeze
I just finished my 341 meeting. Stuart was outstanding to work with throughout my Chapter 7 process, I couldn't be more pleased with the way this all went. He made the whole thing very easy and clear, walking me through each step, never rushing and always making sure I understood. He was very professional and kind the whole way, and whenever I had questions he was always very quick to reply. We had an open line of communication via text, email, and phone. A small issue came up midway through which was all my fault, and Stuart was completely unfazed, and handled it like a pro. I greatly appreciate Stuart's expertise and knowledge, it was invaluable and I highly recommend his services to anyone considering bankruptcy.
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Response from Stuart Handelman September 20, 2023
Thank you John! We really appreciate your kind words. Wishing you the very best!
Posted by Bella | August 23, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent professional and kind lawyer
I am so thankful for the support I have found through Stuart's practice. The thought of bankruptcy was so scary and I was emotionally drained by the time I decided to seek professional help. Stuart was not only able to explain me all I needed to know but also was very aware of my feelings and how hard the whole situation was for me. By the end of our journey we successfully filed the petition and I got to understand the whole process and how to get back to life again.
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Response from Stuart Handelman August 24, 2023
Thank you very much for your kind words! It was our pleasure to help you. We wish you the very best!
Posted by Tony | July 25, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Chapter 7 assistance
Thank you Stuart for all you did for me. You and your staff was great from start to finish. You stayed in contact with me through the whole process and made it as simple and painless as possible. It's not a process anyone wants to go through, but if you must, Stuart and his firm is who you want behind you. Thanks again. I will recommend you and your firm to all
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Response from Stuart Handelman August 14, 2023
Thank you Tony! We are very happy to have helped you. Stuart
Posted by Andrea | May 22, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Attorney!
I am so happy I chose this firm! Stuart was great! He was extremely knowledgeable and thorough. He walked me through the entire process, letting me know what to expect each step of the way. Stuart was professional, friendly and kind. You will not find a better attorney. I highly recommend this firm.
Posted by Todd | April 4, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Awesome Attorney!
I contacted Atty Handelman to handle a financial case for me. He kept me informed every step of the way and easily guided me through the sea of paperwork. From start to finish, he and his team were great to work with. I truly appreciate his time and effort in getting my matter resolved quickly and painlessly. I highly recommend him!
Read less
Response from Stuart Handelman April 5, 2023
Thank you very much Todd! It was our pleasure representing you. We wish you the very best!
Posted by Kevin | April 1, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Extremely Satisfied!
Recently, a debt collection attorney contacted me about a judgement I thought had been cured 10 years ago. It was in excess of $10,000. Although I wanted to fight its validity, economically it made more sense to try to settle. The collection attorney was nasty and so I had little hope of dealing with the matter on my own. I looked for an attorney locally, but the fees were high and I felt the expertise was lacking. I was particularly surprised at how slow most of these legal firms are in returning your call. I surprised myself when I began a search online for an attorney to assist me with my problem. I don’t know why, but one of the first calls I made was to Attorney Stuart Handelman. I left a VM when I called and Mr. Handelman himself called me back immediately. He called and texted me several times in the first 24 hours so that he could understand my needs and get the proper documentation from me to handle my case. In 24 hours, he was up and running and I quit worrying about the matter. In less than 30 days, Mr. Handelman and his legal assistant John had my settlement negotiated for less than 50% of the claim the creditor made. I am ecstatic about the results and the communication, competence and professionalism of Stuart Handelman and his firm. I recommend highly!
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Posted by Jeanette | March 17, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Wonderful Attorney !!
Stuart Handelman is a professional, & stellar in his ability to offer one the best representation in your bankruptcy proceedings !! He gave me one on one attention in filing my Chapter 13 !! I was notified of what documents I needed to submit to make sure that everything went smoothly in my bankruptcy filing ! If you’re looking for a dependable attorney who goes over & beyond to make sure that your bankruptcy petition is filed correctly… Stuart Handelman should be your attorney of choice !!! I would also like to mention that Attorney Kelly Smith was also part of my bankruptcy team & was very important in securing my Chapter 13 filing !!
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Response from Stuart Handelman March 20, 2023
Thank you very much Jeanette! It's our pleasure to help you.
Posted by Cherese | January 27, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great and Affordable Service
I've had a very pleasant experience working with Stuart for the past 6-7 months. He is very thorough and explains everything very well which was very helpful considering it was my first time going through a process like this. He was always available when I needed him and always made sure to answer any questions I had. I definitely recommend Stuart and his firm to anyone looking into bankruptcy!
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Posted by Dana | December 24, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Smart and caring lawyer
Smart, caring and professional. Made my Chapter 13 easier than I ever could have imagined. I Stuart highly!
Posted by Kimberly | December 9, 2022
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Great Knowledgeable Lawyer
I wanted to support a local attorney and Stuart was a perfect choice. He kept me well informed about filing for Bankruptcy during our consultations. He went above and beyond. Though I couldn't end up filing, I would not hesitate to use him again if I could qualify.
Response from Stuart Handelman December 9, 2022
Thank you very much Kimberly!
Posted by Ty | November 30, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
“The Best of the best”
Very professional and walked me through the whole process.Very supportive during a stressful time.Whenever I called him on Saturday with questions or concerns,he always answered.Highly recommended.
Response from Stuart Handelman December 1, 2022
Thank you Ty for letting us help you. I hope 2023 is your best year ever!
Posted by Diego | November 7, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
First Timer - Chapter 7
If you are a first time chapter 7 bankruptcy filer I highly recommend Stuart Handelman. Stuart is upfront with solutions, great communication always there when you have a question and is patient and empathetic. I went into this anxious and nervous being a first timer but he reassured me all would be ok and it was !
Response from Stuart Handelman November 8, 2022
Thank you very much Diego!
Posted by Becky | October 6, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Home
I needed assistance on a short sale of my home. Stuart Handelman and Assistant John Yednock we're amazing. Both walked me through the process explaining everything I needed to know, putting me at ease. They handled everything for me. I would definitely recommend both of them to everyone. Both professional and sympathize with my situation. Process was quick and painless.
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Posted by Annie | September 19, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly recommended attorney
Mr. Handelman is an amazing attorney who has helped so many achieve financial freedom. The process is quick, painless and the results are remarkable. I highly recommend the Law Offices of Stuart Handelman. Thank you for everything, Annie L
Response from Stuart Handelman September 20, 2022
Thank you for your kind words, and for letting us help you Annie!!!
Posted by Kevin | September 14, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Chapter 7
I would highly recommend anyone who is looking for valuable information on how to file chapter 7 contact this Law firm immediately. The process was not hard and the attorney Stuart was excellent. I immediately was comfortable after having a free consultation. After getting wholesome information I knew I would be filing chapter 7 with him. Stuart knows his stuff. He’s got skin in this game and he’s a seasoned attorney! Not only is the experience personable to you it’s also time efficient, given that you are providing all the things asked the process should be a breeze. Remember you must also do your part so that things can be done correctly! Stuart has all the tools to help you if you really need it! I will continue to use him in the future and I highly recommend whoever is reading this to act quickly if you are pondering on what to do and GET YOUR LIFE BACK! I sure got mines. Thank you Stuart
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Response from Stuart Handelman September 26, 2022
Thank you Kevin! I wish you the very best!
Posted by Cindy | September 7, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Bankruptcy
Stuart Handleman and his legal assistant John Yednock and team were amazing during my bankruptcy. We were really nervous about reaching out and I grew up when bankruptcy was hush hush. I never felt judged or neglected. Great communication at any time. Highly experienced and a definite 5 ⭐️ Thank you
Response from Stuart Handelman September 26, 2022
Thank you very much Cindy!
Posted by anonymous | September 5, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Review of Services
Recently, my husband and I found ourselves in a legal situation. We contacted the Law Offices of Stuart Handelman for assistance and we were supremely happy with their services. We worked with legal assistant John Yednock and we were immensely impressed with his professionalism and punctuality. John always responded to our inquiries quickly and he clearly explained the process as we were going through it. John and Stuart worked diligently and expeditiously to negotiate a settlement that was favorable to us. We would absolutely recommend the Law Offices of Stuart Handelman to anyone in a similar situation.
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Posted by Jerry | September 2, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Legal
I used Stuart Handleman for a recent legal issue. He took care of it in a timely and efficient manner and was very reasonable. I highly recommend him.
Posted by Brenda | September 1, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly Recommend Stuart for your needs.
Stuart B Handelman,is a very caring man he helped my husband and I explains things easily is there all the way for you.Checks up on you later to see if your ok and need anymore help.I recommend him to everyone.
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 60 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check

Resume

AVVO RATING 9.9 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Owner
  • The Law Offices of Stuart B. Handelman, P.C.
  • 1992 - Present
  • Associate
  • The Law Offices of Peter Francis Geraci
  • 1989 - 1992

Education

  • John Marshall Law School, Chicago
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1987
  • Northern Illinois University
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1984

Associations

  • Will County Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2004 - Present
  • Chicago Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2003 - Present
  • National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys
  • Member
  • 1998 - Present
  • American Bankruptcy Institute
  • Member
  • 2004 - 2005
  • Chicago Bar Association
  • Chairman
  • 1995 - 1995
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Client Rating
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2021
  • Client Choice Award
  • Avvo
  • 2020
  • Client Choice Award
  • AVVO
  • 2019
  • Client Choice Award
  • AVVO
  • 2018
  • Client's Choice Award
  • Avvo
  • 2017
  • Client Choice Award
  • AVVO
  • 2016
  • Client's Choice Award
  • Avvo
  • 2015
  • Clients' Choice Award
  • AVVO
  • 2014
  • Top Contributor Award
  • AVVO
  • 2014
  • Cient's Choice Award
  • AVVO
  • 2013
  • Top Contributor Award
  • AVVO
  • 2013
  • Bankruptcy Attorney of the Year
  • Consumer Business Review
  • 2009
  • Bankruptcy Attorney of the Year
  • Consumer Business Review
  • 2008
  • Bankruptcy Attorney of the Year
  • Consumer Business Review
  • 2007
  • Pro Bono Award
  • Chicago Volunteer Legal Services
  • 1998
View all awards

Speaking Engagements

  • Illinois Bar Association
  • Continuing Education Course Attendee
  • 2020
  • Illinois Bar Association
  • BK-CLE
  • 2018
  • National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorn
  • CLE Attendee-Bankruptcy
  • 2003
  • National Association of Bankruptcy Attorneys
  • CLE-Attendee-BK
  • 2000
  • Chicago Bar Association
  • Young Lawyers
  • 1995
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (16)
Given (26)
Endorse Stuart
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Dec 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have known Stuart as a respected colleague for over 20 years. He and his firm provide high quality representation to each of his clients."
Unknown Attorney | Apr 06
Relationship: Other
"A top notch attorney who has great knowledge of the law. I endorse this lawyer."
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Sep 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Jan 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. I have known Stuart for a few decades now and he is a very knowledgeable bankruptcy attorney that provides quality service to his clients."
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Sep 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. I have known Stuart for many years and he and his firm always provides outstanding service to his clients"
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Sep 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Sep 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Stuart is able to explain the complex and scary process of a bankruptcy with the care and compassion that helps families get back on their feet as soon as possible from a financial set back. He is efficient and always available to answer questions."
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Sep 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Stuart is a star in the Illinois bankruptcy community and provides excellent legal as well as practical advice."
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Sep 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Attorney Handelman's research and writing depicts a strong command of the law and how to apply it. He possesses all the right skills to be an excellent advocate for his clients. I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Sep 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Top-notch attorney. Highly respected in the legal community."
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Sep 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Sep 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Stuart Bradley Handelman has not only studied the law, he has studied people as well and understands how to communicate complicated ideas to those who don't have advanced degrees. It is clear that he is a caring individual as well as a great attorney & I am happy to offer him my endorsement."
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Sep 03
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Sep 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Handelman is a knowledgeable and skillful attorney. I highly endorse him and would not hesitate to refer clients to him."
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Nov 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Stuart is an excellent bankruptcy lawyer. I have referred several satisfied clients to him over the years. He is well versed in bankruptcy law and provides reasonable solutions to his clients for their legal problems. I recommend him highly."
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Jun 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Any practitioner who is a member of NACBA is a practitioner who cares deeply for effective advocacy for their clients. As a member of this community, Mr. Handelman has committed himself to providing superior representation of his consumer clients. The knowledge he takes from the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys is worked and folded into his everyday practice to ensure that his client's are effectively represented and taken care of. "
View more endorsements
Bankruptcy and debt
Medical malpractice
Bankruptcy and debt
Bankruptcy and debt
Chapter 13 bankruptcy
Bankruptcy and debt
Bankruptcy and debt
Bankruptcy and debt
DUI and DWI
Criminal defense
Bankruptcy and debt
Workers compensation
Bankruptcy and debt
Construction and development
Divorce and separation
Bankruptcy and debt

Avvo Contributions

Top Contributor 2013
Top Contributor

Stuart earned significant contribution points in 2013.

142 Legal Answers 0 Legal Guides
Chicago Bankruptcy and debt Lawyer Stuart Bradley Handelman
Stuart Bradley Handelman
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney
Chicago, IL
Licensed for 35 years
Free Consultation
Virtual consultation available