Howard S. Steel

Howard S. Steel is a nationally recognized restructuring attorney with extensive experience advising on complex Chapter 11 proceedings and high-stakes insolvency litigation. He has represented creditors’ committees, debtors, and institutional investors in mass torts, distressed M&A, and cross-border bankruptcies. Howard is known for his client-focused, results-driven approach.

Howard began his legal career after earning his Bachelor of Arts from Duke University in 2001, followed by his Juris Doctor from Columbia University in 2004. His academic foundation continues to shape his strategic insights and courtroom effectiveness in restructuring and bankruptcy law.

Howard’s practice spans a wide range of industries and high-impact matters. He has worked on major cases including Purdue Pharma, Hertz, Mallinckrodt, and GM Ignition Switch litigation. He has also advised on SIPA proceedings, intercreditor disputes, and fiduciary duty litigation. His experience includes both in-court and out-of-court restructurings and international insolvency matters.

Howard has played a pivotal role in supporting fiduciaries, such as Professor Eric D. Green, in managing compensation trust funds for victims of mass torts, including the Takata airbag defect. He also advocates for institutional stakeholders in large-scale reorganizations, like those involving Peabody Energy, Tidewater Inc., and Ultra Petroleum.

Howard is a respected figure in the legal community. He serves on the Board of Directors of the Turnaround Management Association’s New York City Chapter and contributes to its Membership Committee. He is also active in the American Bankruptcy Institute and the Federal Bar Council. His professional accolades include recognition by The Legal 500, Best Lawyers in America, and Benchmark Litigation.

Howard S. Steel is also committed to public service, having provided pro bono legal aid through organizations such as the Veterans Consortium, Kids in Need of Defense, and LSNYC Housing Repair Project. His dedication to justice spans both high-profile courtrooms and underserved communities, reflecting a career built on integrity and impact.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Goodwin Procter LLP
• Member, American Bankruptcy Institute
• Member, Federal Bar Council
• Member, Turnaround Management Association (TMA)
• Member, American Association for Justice
• Member, New Jersey Association for Justice

Licensed State

• New York

Education

• Columbia University
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Duke University
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges