What scholars have found
A growing body of academic research examines the relationship between attorney practice characteristics and bankruptcy case outcomes. This page summarizes key findings from published research.
Key studies and findings
- Attorney effects on Chapter 13 completion: Research has shown that attorney identity is a significant predictor of whether a Chapter 13 plan is successfully completed. Some attorneys consistently achieve higher completion rates than others, even after controlling for debtor characteristics.
- Caseload and outcomes: Studies examining the relationship between attorney caseload and case outcomes have found mixed results, with some suggesting that very high caseloads correlate with worse outcomes, while others find that experienced high-volume attorneys develop expertise that benefits clients.
- Access to justice: Research on the bankruptcy attorney market highlights that in many districts, consumers have limited choices, particularly in rural areas. High-volume practices may be the only option available.
Research resources
- FJC Integrated Database -- Free public data on millions of bankruptcy cases
- Google Scholar -- Search for academic papers on bankruptcy attorney quality
- CFPB -- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau research
Open data: Researchers increasingly use PACER data and the FJC's Integrated Database to study these questions empirically. Making court data more accessible accelerates this research.
Related Topics
This site is free and open-source. Donations support the Open Bankruptcy Project, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit (determination pending), funding PACER access fees and bankruptcy court transparency research.
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