Michael W. Malter

Michael W. Malter is a California attorney with more than four decades of experience helping individuals and businesses address complex financial problems through bankruptcy law. His practice focuses on Chapter 7, Chapter 11, and Chapter 13 bankruptcy matters, along with debtor-creditor disputes and financial restructuring. Over the course of his career, he has represented thousands of clients seeking relief from overwhelming debt and financial challenges. He works closely with clients to explain their options, guide them through the legal process, and pursue practical financial solutions.

Mr. Malter earned his J.D. from the University of Santa Clara School of Law in 1980. Before attending law school, he completed his B.A. from the University of South Florida in 1976, graduating cum laude. His academic background helped build a strong foundation in legal analysis, financial law, and client advocacy. During his legal education, he developed a strong interest in bankruptcy and debtor-creditor law, which later became the central focus of his professional practice.

Throughout his legal career, Mr. Malter has represented individuals, small businesses, and companies in bankruptcy and financial restructuring cases. He assists clients with consumer bankruptcy, business reorganizations, creditor negotiations, and matters involving distressed real estate. His experience also includes representing clients in bankruptcy litigation, dischargeability actions, and tax disputes involving the Internal Revenue Service and the California Franchise Tax Board. Through careful legal planning and representation, he works to protect clients’ rights and financial interests.

Michael W. Malter has also contributed to the legal community through teaching, speaking engagements, and professional service. He has served as an adjunct faculty member at Santa Clara University School of Law, where he taught bankruptcy law and lectured on related topics. In addition, he has participated in numerous legal seminars and professional organizations related to bankruptcy law and debtor-creditor rights. His long career reflects dedication to legal education, professional leadership, and effective representation for clients facing financial challenges.

Law Office Affiliations

• Founding Partner, Binder Malter Harris & Rome-Banks LLP
• Former Member, Northern California Super Lawyer (2004–2019)
• Fellow And Member, American Bar Foundation
• Co-founder and First President, The Congressman Don Edwards Bankruptcy Inn of Court, San Jose chapter of American Inns of Court
• Member, Santa Clara County Bar Association Law
• Board Member, Consumer Bankruptcy Counseling Project – A Project of the Tides Foundation
• Member, Commercial Law and Bankruptcy Sections of the Santa Clara and San Francisco Bar Associations
• Member, Commercial Law and Bankruptcy Sections of the Santa Clara and San Francisco Bar Associations

Licensed State

• California

Education

• University of Santa Clara School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of South Florida, Tampa
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges