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Bankruptcy Lawyer · Tacoma, WA/Updated June 13, 2026

The 10 Best Bankruptcy Lawyers in Tacoma, WA

Finding the right bankruptcy lawyer can be daunting. Avoid common pitfalls by understanding key questions to ask before hiring.

Editorially independent15 companies evaluated
cover story
★ Editor's ChoiceWashington Fresh Start
96Score
Latest update · June 13, 2026: Initial ranking published. 15 Tacoma-metro bankruptcy lawyer businesses evaluated, top 10 ranked by Vetted Score.

Bankruptcy is a significant step that can reshape your financial future, especially in Tacoma's evolving economic landscape. With 15 providers evaluated, this list highlights those who excel in client satisfaction and expertise, ensuring you make an informed choice.

Our rankings are based on real client feedback, with no business paying for placement. Each firm was assessed on multiple factors, including reviews and overall ratings, and we refresh our findings monthly to keep the information current.

15bankruptcy lawyers evaluated in Tacoma
4.69average rating across the field
926customer reviews analyzed

Cityvetted analysis of public Google review data, updated June 13, 2026.

How much does bankruptcy lawyer cost in Tacoma? See the price breakdown →

Our top picks

At a glance · three categories
★ Editor's Choice
96Score

Washington Fresh Start

★★★★★4.9(135 reviews)

With a stellar rating of 4.9 based on 135 reviews, Washington Fresh Start is recognized for its compassionate approach and thorough understanding of bankruptcy law.

Read full review
Best Value
95Score

Scott L. Taylor Attorney

★★★★★5.0(79 reviews)

Scott L.

Read full review
Most Reviewed
94Score

Sterbick And Associates

★★★★★4.8(164 reviews)

Sterbick And Associates holds a rating of 4.8 from 164 reviews, reflecting its strong reputation in the Tacoma area.

Read full review

All 10, compared

Data as of June 13, 2026
BusinessVetted ScoreGoogle ratingReviewsBest for
1
Washington Fresh Start
Washington Fresh Start
Editor's Choice
96Score
4.9★★★★★
135Individuals seeking compassionate guidance through bankruptcy
2
95Score
5.0★★★★★
79Those looking for value and efficiency in bankruptcy services
3
94Score
4.8★★★★★
164Clients seeking a well-reviewed firm with extensive experience
4
88Score
4.8★★★★★
134Individuals who value personal attention in their bankruptcy case
5
88Score
4.9★★★★★
76Clients needing clear explanations and guidance
6
86Score
4.7★★★★★
73Clients seeking straightforward legal advice
7
82Score
5.0★★★★★
17Individuals seeking personalized legal assistance
8
80Score
4.5★★★★★
171Clients with diverse bankruptcy needs
9
78Score
5.0★★★★★
13Clients looking for a supportive attorney
10
78Score
4.7★★★★★
20Clients seeking efficient and clear legal advice
Methodology

How we evaluated all 15 bankruptcy lawyers.

To rank the best bankruptcy lawyers in Tacoma, we analyzed 15 local providers, focusing on their ratings and review counts. We considered both the quality and quantity of client feedback, resulting in a comprehensive picture of each firm's reputation.

Our evaluation process is transparent. We only rank firms that have genuine client reviews, and no business influences their placement on our list. This approach ensures you receive unbiased information when selecting legal representation.

The Vetted Score: six weighted factors

Customer sentiment25%
Rating quality20%
Review volume & velocity20%
Website trust signals15%
Service breadth10%
Business longevity10%

Sentiment is measured by AI analysis of review text, recency-weighted, with verified-pattern checks to discount suspicious review bursts.

Full reviews

The rankings · in order
1
★ Editor's Choice

Washington Fresh Start

★★★★★4.9(135 reviews)
96Score

With a stellar rating of 4.9 based on 135 reviews, Washington Fresh Start is recognized for its compassionate approach and thorough understanding of bankruptcy law. Clients appreciate the personalized attention and clear communication throughout the process. However, being a popular choice may mean longer wait times for appointments. That is a substantial body of feedback for a local operator, enough to trust the rating rather than credit a lucky streak. Most of what reviewers hire it for is individuals seeking compassionate guidance through bankruptcy. It serves Tacoma and surrounding areas, with $1,500 to $3,500 pricing, and the honest trade-offs are potentially longer wait times for appointments and limited office hours.

Pros

  • Compassionate and personalized service
  • Highly knowledgeable about bankruptcy law
  • Strong client relationships

Cons

  • Potentially longer wait times for appointments
  • Limited office hours
Best forIndividuals seeking compassionate guidance through bankruptcy
Service areaTacoma and surrounding areas
Typical pricing$1,500 to $3,500
2
Best Value

Scott L. Taylor Attorney

★★★★★5.0(79 reviews)
95Score

Scott L. Taylor Attorney has a perfect rating of 5 with 79 reviews, praised for his efficient processes and transparent fees. Clients commend his straightforward advice and ability to simplify complex legal terms. However, availability may be limited due to his high demand, so early booking is advisable. That is a substantial body of feedback for a local operator, enough to trust the rating rather than credit a lucky streak. Most of what reviewers hire it for is those looking for value and efficiency in bankruptcy services. It serves Tacoma and nearby regions, with $1,000 to $3,000 pricing, and the honest trade-offs are limited availability and may not offer extensive follow-up services.

Pros

  • Transparent pricing structure
  • Highly efficient and organized
  • Clear communication

Cons

  • Limited availability
  • May not offer extensive follow-up services
Best forThose looking for value and efficiency in bankruptcy services
Service areaTacoma and nearby regions
Typical pricing$1,000 to $3,000
3
Most Reviewed

Sterbick And Associates

★★★★★4.8(164 reviews)
94Score

Sterbick And Associates holds a rating of 4.8 from 164 reviews, reflecting its strong reputation in the Tacoma area. Clients frequently highlight the firm’s thorough approach and depth of experience in bankruptcy cases. A downside is that the larger team may lead to variability in client experience. That is a substantial body of feedback for a local operator, enough to trust the rating rather than credit a lucky streak. Most of what reviewers hire it for is clients seeking a well-reviewed firm with extensive experience. It serves Tacoma and surrounding areas, with $1,200 to $3,200 pricing, and the honest trade-offs are variable experiences with different attorneys and less personalized attention.

Pros

  • Extensive experience in bankruptcy law
  • Thorough case evaluations
  • Strong client testimonials

Cons

  • Variable experiences with different attorneys
  • Less personalized attention
Best forClients seeking a well-reviewed firm with extensive experience
Service areaTacoma and surrounding areas
Typical pricing$1,200 to $3,200
4

Dorothy Bartholomew, PLLC

★★★★★4.8(134 reviews)
88Score

Dorothy Bartholomew, PLLC, is rated 4.8 with 134 reviews, noted for her attentive service and supportive demeanor. Clients appreciate her thorough explanations and willingness to answer questions. However, her smaller practice may limit resources compared to larger firms, affecting the speed of service. That is a substantial body of feedback for a local operator, enough to trust the rating rather than credit a lucky streak. Most of what reviewers hire it for is individuals who value personal attention in their bankruptcy case. It serves Tacoma and nearby areas, with $1,500 to $3,000 pricing, and the honest trade-offs are limited resources compared to larger firms and potentially slower service.

Pros

  • Attentive and supportive service
  • Thorough explanations
  • Personalized attention

Cons

  • Limited resources compared to larger firms
  • Potentially slower service
Best forIndividuals who value personal attention in their bankruptcy case
Service areaTacoma and nearby areas
Typical pricing$1,500 to $3,000
5

Morton McGoldrick, PLLC

★★★★★4.9(76 reviews)
88Score

Morton McGoldrick, PLLC, holds a 4.9 rating from 76 reviews, praised for his comprehensive approach and effective communication. Clients frequently mention his ability to simplify complex issues. However, the practice has a smaller client base, which may indicate less experience in handling varied cases. That is a substantial body of feedback for a local operator, enough to trust the rating rather than credit a lucky streak. Most of what reviewers hire it for is clients needing clear explanations and guidance. It serves Tacoma and surrounding areas, with $1,200 to $2,800 pricing, and the honest trade-offs are smaller client base and less experience with varied cases.

Pros

  • Effective communication
  • Comprehensive approach
  • Simplifies complex issues

Cons

  • Smaller client base
  • Less experience with varied cases
Best forClients needing clear explanations and guidance
Service areaTacoma and surrounding areas
Typical pricing$1,200 to $2,800
6

Law Offices Of David Smith

★★★★★4.7(73 reviews)
86Score

The Law Offices of David Smith have a rating of 4.7 from 73 reviews, known for their accessibility and straightforward advice. Clients appreciate the no-nonsense approach to bankruptcy filings. However, the firm may not have the same depth of resources as larger competitors, which could impact case handling. The sample is modest but steady, with reviewers describing the same strengths instead of one-off praise. Most of what reviewers hire it for is clients seeking straightforward legal advice. It serves Tacoma and nearby areas, with $1,000 to $2,500 pricing, and the honest trade-offs are limited resources compared to larger firms and may lack extensive legal support.

Pros

  • Accessible and straightforward
  • No-nonsense advice
  • Good client communication

Cons

  • Limited resources compared to larger firms
  • May lack extensive legal support
Best forClients seeking straightforward legal advice
Service areaTacoma and nearby areas
Typical pricing$1,000 to $2,500
7

Macdonald Law Office, PS

★★★★★5.0(17 reviews)
82Score

Macdonald Law Office, PS, has a perfect 5-star rating from 17 reviews, with clients noting the personalized service and attention to detail. While the small number of reviews is promising, it may not fully reflect the firm’s experience in handling more complex bankruptcy cases. The review base is still thin, so we read the rating as promising rather than proven and weighted it accordingly. Most of what reviewers hire it for is individuals seeking personalized legal assistance. It serves Tacoma and surrounding areas, with $1,500 to $3,000 pricing, and the honest trade-offs are small number of reviews and potentially limited experience.

Pros

  • Highly personalized service
  • Attention to detail
  • Responsive communication

Cons

  • Small number of reviews
  • Potentially limited experience
Best forIndividuals seeking personalized legal assistance
Service areaTacoma and surrounding areas
Typical pricing$1,500 to $3,000
8

Majors Law Group

★★★★★4.5(171 reviews)
80Score

Majors Law Group has a rating of 4.5 from 171 reviews, recognized for its thorough consultations and solid advice. Clients appreciate the firm’s ability to handle various bankruptcy scenarios. The downside is that some clients have reported feeling like just another case due to the firm’s larger size. That is a substantial body of feedback for a local operator, enough to trust the rating rather than credit a lucky streak. Most of what reviewers hire it for is clients with diverse bankruptcy needs. It serves Tacoma and surrounding areas, with $1,200 to $3,200 pricing, and the honest trade-offs are clients may feel overlooked and less personalized attention.

Pros

  • Thorough consultations
  • Solid legal advice
  • Handles various bankruptcy scenarios

Cons

  • Clients may feel overlooked
  • Less personalized attention
Best forClients with diverse bankruptcy needs
Service areaTacoma and surrounding areas
Typical pricing$1,200 to $3,200
9

Law Office of Timothy J Wilson

★★★★★5.0(13 reviews)
78Score

The Law Office of Timothy J Wilson has a perfect 5-star rating from 13 reviews, with clients praising his thoroughness and supportive nature. While the positive feedback is encouraging, the limited number of reviews means it may be less proven compared to more established firms. The review base is still thin, so we read the rating as promising rather than proven and weighted it accordingly. Most of what reviewers hire it for is clients looking for a supportive attorney. It serves Tacoma and nearby areas, with $1,000 to $2,500 pricing, and the honest trade-offs are limited number of reviews and less established in the market.

Pros

  • Thorough and supportive
  • Personalized attention
  • Highly rated by clients

Cons

  • Limited number of reviews
  • Less established in the market
Best forClients looking for a supportive attorney
Service areaTacoma and nearby areas
Typical pricing$1,000 to $2,500
10

Washington State Bankruptcy Lawyers

★★★★★4.7(20 reviews)
78Score

Washington State Bankruptcy Lawyers holds a 4.7 rating from 20 reviews, recognized for their straightforward advice and efficiency. Clients appreciate the clear explanations and responsive service. However, the small review count may indicate a less established presence in the Tacoma area. The review base is still thin, so we read the rating as promising rather than proven and weighted it accordingly. Most of what reviewers hire it for is clients seeking efficient and clear legal advice. It serves Tacoma and surrounding areas, with $1,200 to $2,800 pricing, and the honest trade-offs are small number of reviews and less established presence.

Pros

  • Straightforward advice
  • Efficient service
  • Clear communication

Cons

  • Small number of reviews
  • Less established presence
Best forClients seeking efficient and clear legal advice
Service areaTacoma and surrounding areas
Typical pricing$1,200 to $2,800
Before you book

How to choose a bankruptcy lawyer in Tacoma

Selecting the right bankruptcy lawyer can be overwhelming. To help you navigate this process, consider asking the following questions to ensure you find a qualified attorney who meets your needs.

What is your experience with bankruptcy cases?

Inquire about the lawyer's track record with bankruptcy filings, including the types of cases they handle and their success rates.

What are your fees and payment structures?

Understanding how the lawyer charges, flat fee, hourly rate, or contingency, can help you budget effectively for your legal needs.

How will you communicate throughout the process?

Establishing communication expectations is essential. Ask how often you will receive updates and through which channels.

What it costs

What bankruptcy lawyers cost in Tacoma

The cost of hiring a bankruptcy lawyer in Tacoma can vary based on several factors, including the complexity of your case and the attorney's experience. Here’s a general breakdown of what you can expect.

Basic Consultation FeesMany lawyers offer initial consultations for free or charge between $100 to $300.
Chapter 7 BankruptcyExpect to pay between $1,500 to $3,500, depending on the lawyer's experience and the case's complexity.
Chapter 13 BankruptcyFees typically range from $2,500 to $4,000, reflecting the additional work involved in repayment plans.
Additional CostsBe aware of court fees, which can add another $300 to $500 to your total expenses.

Frequently asked questions

How much does hiring a bankruptcy lawyer cost in Tacoma?

Most bankruptcy lawyers in Tacoma charge between $1,000 to $3,500 for their services, depending on the complexity of your case.

What should I expect during my first consultation?

During your first consultation, expect to discuss your financial situation, review your debts, and explore potential options for filing bankruptcy.

How often is this ranking updated?

We re-run the full analysis monthly with fresh review data. Last updated June 13, 2026.

Our verdict

For most Tacoma residents: <strong>Washington Fresh Start</strong>

If you're looking for a reliable bankruptcy lawyer in Tacoma, Washington Fresh Start should be your first choice. Their 4.9-star rating from 135 reviews demonstrates their strong reputation and client satisfaction. However, if you prefer an attorney with a perfect rating, consider Scott L. Taylor Attorney, especially if you have a more straightforward case and want personalized attention. For those with more complex financial issues, Sterbick And Associates is a solid alternative, as they have a wealth of experience reflected in their 4.8-star rating from 164 reviews.