Bankruptcy in Kings County (Brooklyn)

Kings County (Brooklyn) is the most populous borough in New York City. Unlike Manhattan, Brooklyn falls under the Eastern District of New York - a different federal court district with its own courthouse and judges.

Yes. Kings County (Brooklyn) is in the Eastern District of New York, while Manhattan is in the Southern District. The Brooklyn bankruptcy courthouse is at 271-C Cadman Plaza East, Brooklyn, NY 11201. This means different judges and potentially different local practices.

Key Information

Federal District

Eastern District of New York (Brooklyn Division)
All bankruptcy cases from Kings County (Brooklyn) are filed in this district.

Nearest Courthouse

271-C Cadman Plaza East, Brooklyn, NY 11201
341 meetings and court hearings are typically held at this location.

New York Exemptions in Kings County (Brooklyn)

New York state or federal exemptions. State homestead: $179,975 (Kings County). Vehicle: $4,825. Cash: $5,000. Personal property: varies. Federal alternative: homestead $27,900 per person, vehicle $4,450, wildcard $1,475 plus $13,950 unused homestead.

Exemptions determine what property you can keep in bankruptcy. See the full exemptions guide.

Filing Bankruptcy in Kings County (Brooklyn)

The Process

  1. Credit counseling - Complete an approved course within 180 days before filing ($15-25).
  2. File your petition - The petition is filed with the Eastern District of New York (Brooklyn Division). The automatic stay takes effect immediately.
  3. 341 meeting - About 30 days after filing, attend a brief meeting of creditors at 271-C Cadman Plaza East, Brooklyn, NY 11201.
  4. Debtor education - Complete a second financial course before discharge ($10-25).
  5. Discharge - Chapter 7: approximately 60 days after the 341 meeting. Chapter 13: after completing 3-5 year plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Brooklyn in a different bankruptcy district than Manhattan?

Yes. Kings County (Brooklyn) is in the Eastern District of New York, while Manhattan is in the Southern District. The Brooklyn bankruptcy courthouse is at 271-C Cadman Plaza East, Brooklyn, NY 11201. This means different judges and potentially different local practices.

What is the homestead exemption in Brooklyn?

The New York state homestead exemption for Kings County is $179,975. Alternatively, you can use federal exemptions with a homestead of $27,900 per person. Given Brooklyn's high real estate values, many homeowners have equity exceeding the state exemption.

Can I protect my co-op apartment in Brooklyn?

Co-op apartments can be protected under the homestead exemption if the co-op is your primary residence. The $179,975 state exemption or $27,900 federal exemption applies to the equity in your co-op shares. Consult a qualified attorney for co-op-specific issues.

Check Your Eligibility

Use the free 1328(f) screener to check whether a prior discharge affects your eligibility.

Free Discharge Screener

Other New York Area Counties

Open Bankruptcy Project Network

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Our research was cited by the federal judiciary as Suggestions 26-BK-3 and 26-BK-5