United States Bankruptcy Court District of Massachusetts – Boston, MA

United States Bankruptcy Court – District of Massachusetts

The United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Massachusetts in Boston handles all bankruptcy matters arising under the Bankruptcy Code for the eastern region of the state. Located within the historic John W. McCormack Post Office and Court House in Post Office Square, this federal court provides a legal forum for individuals and businesses to resolve financial difficulties through liquidation or reorganization. The court operates under the jurisdiction of the U.S. District Court and plays a critical role in the federal judicial system’s management of insolvency proceedings.

Filing and Case Services

The Clerk’s Office accepts filings for various chapters of the Bankruptcy Code, primarily:

• Chapter 7: Liquidation of assets to repay creditors, often used by individuals with limited income.
• Chapter 11: Reorganization, typically utilized by businesses to keep operating while paying creditors over time.
• Chapter 13: Adjustment of debts for individuals with regular income, allowing for a repayment plan.

The court also facilitates 341 meetings (meetings of creditors), adversary proceedings, and manages the electronic filing system (CM/ECF) for attorneys and trustees. Self-represented (pro se) litigants can access resources and filing guidance at the public counter.

Federal Security Protocols

As a federal facility, security is extremely strict. All visitors must present a valid government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license or passport) to United States Marshals or Court Security Officers upon entry. Electronic devices, including cell phones, laptops, and tablets, are generally prohibited for the general public unless specific written permission has been granted by a judge or for credentialed attorneys and media with proper identification. Visitors should expect airport-style screening including metal detectors and x-ray machines.

Office Hours and Access

The Clerk’s Office is open for public business and filings Monday through Friday. While the intake counters close at 4:30 PM, the building remains accessible during standard business hours. The courthouse is a landmark Art Deco building located in the heart of Boston’s Financial District, easily accessible via the State Street and Downtown Crossing MBTA stations. Parking is limited to commercial garages in the vicinity.