M. Blake Cleary

M. Blake Cleary is a Wilmington bankruptcy attorney, partner, and co-head of Potter Anderson’s bankruptcy team. He represents debtors, lenders, unsecured creditors’ committees, portfolio companies, directors, management teams, and other parties in complex restructurings. His practice focuses on Chapter 11 proceedings, distressed transactions, creditor rights, bankruptcy litigation, and change-of-control matters. He helps clients pursue workable outcomes through reorganization plans, Section 363 sales, negotiations, and contested court proceedings.

Cleary earned his J.D. from Widener University School of Law and his B.A. from the University of Virginia. His education provided a foundation in legal analysis, advocacy, negotiation, and business law. He is admitted in Delaware and before the US Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit. His academic and professional training supports his ability to evaluate financial distress, ownership transitions, creditor claims, and complex bankruptcy procedures.

Cleary has more than two decades of experience advising clients through major Chapter 11 cases and corporate restructurings. He handles issues affecting portfolio companies, directors, management, lenders, debtors, and unsecured creditors during transactions and insolvency proceedings. His experience includes plan-based restructurings, asset sales, creditor-side mandates, and litigation arising from bankruptcy cases. He combines courtroom advocacy with strategic negotiation while helping clients preserve value and resolve competing interests.

M. Blake Cleary is recognized nationally for his work in bankruptcy and restructuring. He has been ranked by Chambers USA for Delaware bankruptcy and restructuring matters. He was selected for The Best Lawyers in America for bankruptcy and creditor-debtor rights and named to the 2025 Lawdragon 500 Leading Global Bankruptcy and Restructuring Lawyers. His reputation reflects practical judgment, persuasive advocacy, creative problem-solving, and a strong ability to guide clients through difficult financial situations.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Potter Anderson & Corroon LLP
• Member, American Bankruptcy Institute
• Member, American Bar Association
• Member, Delaware State Bar Association
• Member, Turnaround Management Association

Licensed State

• Delaware
• Pennsylvania

Education

• Widener University Delaware Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Virginia
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)