Stuart Bradley Handelman

PRO

Stuart Bradley Handelman

5.0
Rating: 9.8

Licensed for 38 years

Bankruptcy and debt Lawyer at Chicago, IL
Practice Areas: Bankruptcy & Debt, Debt Settlement

30 N. Michigan Avenue, Suite 1603, Chicago, IL

Virtual Consultation Available

Free Consultation

About Stuart

Biography

You have options!

Representing client residing in Cook, DuPage, Grundy, Kendall, Kane, Lake, LaSalle & Will counties.

Practice Areas

2

Practice Areas

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.

36 years | 7,357 cases

72%
Debt Settlement 28%

Bankruptcy is not the only solution to debts problems. We often are able to help clients with debt settlements.

36 years | 753 cases

28%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 60 minutes


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check

Awards

Client's Choice
Client's Choice
2026 2025 2024
...
+ 13
Top Contributor
Top Contributor
2013

Licenses

Licensed in Illinois for 38 years

State: Illinois

Acquired: 1987

Active and Authorized to Practice Law

No misconduct found

Location

The Law Offices of Stuart B. Handelman

30 N. Michigan Avenue, Suite 1603, Chicago, IL, 60602

chicagolandbankruptcy.com

The Law Offices Of Stuart B. Handelman, PC

310 N. Hammes Ave Suite 201G, Joliet, IL, 60435

chicagolandbankruptcy.com

The Law Offices Of Stuart B. Handelman, PC

9760 South Roberts Rd. Suite 1, Palos Hills, IL, 60457

chicagolandbankruptcy.com

The Law Offices Of Stuart B. Handelman, PC

20200 Governors Drive, Suite 201E, Olympia Fields, IL, 60461

chicagolandbankruptcy.com

The Law Offices Of Stuart B. Handelman, PC

4544 W. 103rd Street, Suite 102, Oak Lawn, IL, 60453

chicagolandbankruptcy.com

Online Presence

Other places you can find Stuart online.

Stuart Bradley Handelman's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

5.0 /5.0

386 Client Reviews

Showing 96 - 100 of 118 reviews | Practice Area Knowledge

Posted by Craig | June 23, 2013 | Chapter 7 Bankruptcy

Great Bankruptcy Attorney

The law offices of Stuart B. Handelman were great for my bankruptcy. I actually went to two other "bankruptcy mills" before and was told by them that I would have to file for a chapter 13 bankruptcy and wouldnt qualify for a chapter 7. The law offices of Stuart Handelman got me into a chapter 7 wit...hout any difficulty. They also make the whole bankruptcy process very easy to deal with. They show you exactly what you need to do and get done and also are great about getting back to you when you call with any questions. Bankruptcy can be tough to go through and they make the entire process very easy to deal with. I would highly recommend the law offices of Stuart Handelman for anybody that is thinking about filing bankruptcy.

Posted by Loren | June 20, 2013 | Bankruptcy & Debt

Kelly Smith was great!

I was referred to Kelly Smith in Mr. Handelman's office. I met with Kelly to discuss my bankruptcy options. Kelly was very straight forward. She answered all of my questions, gave wonderful advise and was very easy to work with. She was very efficient and things went very smooth. I thought the... bankruptcy process would drag out for awhile but things were settled very quickly. I also felt that her fee for services was very reasonable.

Posted by Jeff | June 20, 2013 | Bankruptcy & Debt

Great job handling our Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Case in Will County IL

Attorney Kelly Smith,   Attorney Jean Huang, and Legal assistant Desiree Glapion. helped my wife and I with our bankruptcy case in Will County. They followed up with us when information was needed and kept us informed thru the entire process where everything stood. After our case was discharged I ...was upset that our home and car was not re-affirmed after the discharge. After a few weeks and many conversations with Kelly I finally realized why this wasn't done and have total respect for Kelly Smith. She was looking out for our best interest personally on why things were done that way. Anytime I needed to get in contact with the office someone was available and someone always returned my call quickly and emails also. As I stated above even after our case was discharged the attorney still was taking my phone calls. I can't say that many attornies would return the calls. Great job and if your looking for a law firm who is truly there for the best interest for either yourself or your family hire this law firm.

Posted by Scott G. | March 17, 2013 | Bankruptcy & Debt

This Firm "Handels It"!

I found Stuart B. Handlemans Firm on the internet. Oddly enough, I have been involved with Attorneys my whole life. My Father was an Illinois Lawyer. My best friend is a great Trial lawyer in California. I even use to market for attorney firms on Television via infomercials for Bankruptcy and other p...roducts. Three years ago, I fell into trouble with millions in debt load. I consulted 5 attorney's both here in Illinois and California about filing Bankruptcy. Each had attributes and each had lacked a clear, defined, game plan. I browsed the internet and found Stuart B. Handlemans Firm. I called in and spoke to Kelly Smith, Attorney at Law. I indicated that I thought "my situation" was complicated. Kelly kind of chuckled or let's say I could here her smiling..... My wife and I met with Kelly Smith. Kelly was very diligent, attentative, and straight forward. Kelly knows her business! Kelly gave me a punch list, clear instructions and timelines. I was VERY IMPRESSED by her professional attitude and CONFIDENCE. Kelly knows exactly what she is doing and personally did most if not all of the prep work on my case. I was relatively nervous about the 341 hearing because my Bankruptcy was in the Millions and I felt apprehensive until I walked in the room and there she was! Kelly Smith sat with us and explained the next few events. Our hearing went smooth as silk! I could tell that Kelly is VERY respected by the Trustee handling our case. Kelly commanded the room and we were in her element. Kelly Smith is a diamond that shines in the world of Bankruptcy. Kelly is what I would call " A cast Iron Marshmellow". She is tough and commands respect on the exterior but she also demonstrated compassion and empathy for our family. By the way, the fees charged were market fees, and they did not slide because my debts were larger than average. I know this from knowing many attorney's in the field. Truth be told, Kelly Smith and The Law firm of Stuart B. Handleman are worth their weight in Gold. Thank You Mr. Handleman and my special thanks to Kelly Smith for her excellence and professionalism.

Posted by anonymous | February 18, 2013 | Chapter 7 Bankruptcy

Excellent Service and Results

Stuart and his team handled my Chapter 7, no asset BK and did a wonderful job. Entering BK can be a stressful time that no one wants to face, but I felt my case was treated with attention to detail and I was given sound advice. That made it better. Kelly tells it like it is! I appreciate that. T...oday I am in a better place and have been rebuilding. Even now I can always reach out about credit reporting questions which Stuart investigates without hesitation to protect your rights. Pricing for representation is also very reasonable. I really do recommend this law office highly.

See All Client Reviews

Stuart Bradley Handelman's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Stuart
Monica Claire O'Brien headshot
Monica O'Brien

Bankruptcy and debt lawyer | 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."

Judd S Nemiro headshot
Judd Nemiro

Unknown lawyer | Apr 06

Relationship: Other

"A top notch attorney who has great knowledge of the law. I endorse this lawyer."

William Hilton Ridings Jr headshot
William Ridings

Bankruptcy and debt lawyer | Sep 04

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Kevin Benjamin headshot
Kevin Benjamin

Bankruptcy and debt lawyer | 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."

Robert J Adams headshot
Robert Adams

Bankruptcy and debt lawyer | 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"

John Spyros Fotopoulos headshot
John Fotopoulos

Bankruptcy and debt lawyer | Sep 23

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Ben Neiburger headshot
Ben Neiburger

Bankruptcy and debt lawyer | 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."

Matthew Scott Berkus headshot
Matthew Berkus

Bankruptcy and debt lawyer | 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."

Brian Heath Crockett headshot
Brian Crockett

Bankruptcy and debt lawyer | 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."

Christian K. Lassen II headshot
Christian Lassen

Unknown lawyer | Sep 12

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Top-notch attorney. Highly respected in the legal community."

Ethan Patrick Meaney headshot
Ethan Meaney

Bankruptcy and debt lawyer | Sep 09

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Dorothy G Bunce headshot
Dorothy Bunce

Bankruptcy and debt lawyer | 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."

Asaph O. Abrams headshot
Asaph Abrams

Bankruptcy and debt lawyer | Sep 03

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Judy A. Goldstein headshot
Judy Goldstein

Bankruptcy and debt lawyer | 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."

Peter Jeffrey Berman headshot
Peter Berman

Bankruptcy and debt lawyer | 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."

Jay Jump headshot
Jay Jump

Bankruptcy and debt lawyer | 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 All Endorsements
Kevin W. Chern headshot
Kevin Chern

Bankruptcy and debt lawyer

Timothy I. McArdle headshot
Timothy McArdle

Medical malpractice lawyer

Monica Claire O'Brien headshot
Monica O'Brien

Bankruptcy and debt lawyer

Robert J Adams headshot
Robert Adams

Bankruptcy and debt lawyer

Kevin Benjamin headshot
Kevin Benjamin

Chapter 13 bankruptcy lawyer

Matthew Scott Berkus headshot
Matthew Berkus

Bankruptcy and debt lawyer

Dorothy G Bunce headshot
Dorothy Bunce

Bankruptcy and debt lawyer

Nick Curtis Thompson headshot
Nick Thompson

Bankruptcy and debt lawyer

Ethan Patrick Meaney headshot
Ethan Meaney

DUI and DWI lawyer

Diane L Gruber headshot
Diane Gruber

Family lawyer

Christopher Daniel Leroi headshot
Christopher Leroi

Criminal defense lawyer

Nora Ramirez-Matranga headshot
Nora Ramirez-Matranga

Bankruptcy and debt lawyer

Kelly L. Cotter headshot
Kelly Cotter

Workers compensation lawyer

Earl Edward Farkas headshot
Earl Farkas

Business lawyer

Jay S. Fleischman headshot
Jay Fleischman

Bankruptcy and debt lawyer

Lawrence J. Drabot headshot
Lawrence Drabot

Construction and development lawyer

David John Shestokas headshot
David Shestokas

Unknown lawyer

Miriam Cooper headshot
Miriam Cooper

Family lawyer

Judy A. Goldstein headshot
Judy Goldstein

Divorce and separation lawyer

Richard S. Bass headshot
Richard Bass

Bankruptcy and debt lawyer

Experience

Rating:  9.8 (Superb)

Honors

2021

Client Rating, Martindale-Hubbell

2020

Client Choice Award, Avvo

2019

Client Choice Award, AVVO

2018

Client Choice Award, AVVO

2017

Client's Choice Award, Avvo

2016

Client Choice Award, AVVO

2015

Client's Choice Award, Avvo

2014

Clients' Choice Award, AVVO

2014

Top Contributor Award, AVVO

2013

Cient's Choice Award, AVVO

2013

Top Contributor Award, AVVO

2009

Bankruptcy Attorney of the Year, Consumer Business Review

2008

Bankruptcy Attorney of the Year, Consumer Business Review

2007

Bankruptcy Attorney of the Year, Consumer Business Review

1998

Pro Bono Award, Chicago Volunteer Legal Services

Work Experience

1992 - Present

Owner, The Law Offices of Stuart B. Handelman, P.C.

1989 - 1992

Associate, The Law Offices of Peter Francis Geraci

Associations

2004 - Present

Will County Bar Association

Member

2003 - Present

Chicago Bar Association

Member

1998 - Present

National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys

Member

2004 - 2005

American Bankruptcy Institute

Member

1995 - 1995

Chicago Bar Association

Chairman

Education

1987

John Marshall Law School, Chicago

JD - Juris Doctor

1984

Northern Illinois University

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Speaking Engagements

2020

Illinois Bar Association

Continuing Education Course Attendee

2018

Illinois Bar Association

BK-CLE

2003

National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorn

CLE Attendee-Bankruptcy

2000

National Association of Bankruptcy Attorneys

CLE-Attendee-BK

1995

Chicago Bar Association

Young Lawyers

Languages

English

Activity

Top Contributor

Stuart earned significant contribution points in 2013.

Avvo Rating

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  • Experience & background Years licensed, work experience, education
  • Legal community recognition Peer endorsements, associations, awards
  • Legal thought leadership Publications, speaking engagements
  • Discipline Disciplinary information may not be comprehensive, or updated. We recommend that you always check a lawyer's disciplinary status with their respective state bar association before hiring them.
Avvo Rating Levels
10.0 - 9.0 Superb8.9 - 8.0 Excellent7.9 - 7.0 Very Good6.9 - 6.0 Good5.9 - 5.0 Average4.9 - 4.0 Concern3.9 - 3.0 Caution2.9 - 2.0 Strong Caution1.9 - 1.0 Extreme Caution