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Richard E. Mikels

Member
617.348.1691
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Education

  • Boston University (JD)
  • Boston University (BA)

Bar Admissions

  • Massachusetts

Rick is Chair of firm’s Bankruptcy, Restructuring & Commercial Law Practice. With over 30 years of experience in commercial law, workouts, and reorganizations, he maintains a national practice, focusing on insolvency issues and business restructurings, both in Chapter 11 and in out-of-court workouts.

Some of his debtor Chapter 11 representations include Alpha Omega Jewelers; Joan Fabrics Corporation; Malden Mills Industries Inc.; ACT Manufacturing, Inc.; Filene’s Basement, Inc.; divine, Inc.; and Great Northern Paper, Inc. Rick frequently represents other constituencies, including secured and unsecured creditors and acquirers of businesses, in Chapter 11 cases.

Rick serves as an adjunct professor of law at Boston University School of Law. He is recognized for his experience on issues related to Chapter 11 reorganizations, and has authored and edited chapters in numerous publications. Rick is a vice president of the American College of Bankruptcy and also serves as the chair of that organization's Education Programs Committee. 

Rick’s reputation for excellence in the bankruptcy and insolvency field is well-noted. He is often cited in leading publications, such as Reuters, Dow Jones, and the Boston Globe, and he has also appeared on national television on CNBC.

His commitment to the legal profession is demonstrated by his deep involvement in several professional organizations. Rick also dedicates a substantial amount of his time to academic and civic endeavors. In 2010, Rick was honored at the American College of Bankruptcy’s 10th Annual First Circuit Reception for his distinguished service as First Circuit Regent, and for his many contributions to the practice of bankruptcy law.

Recognitions & Awards   

  • Chambers USA: Massachusetts (Star Individual) – Bankruptcy/Restructuring (2004 – 2013)
  • Best Lawyers in America: Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law, Litigation - Bankruptcy (1983 – 2013)
  • Boston Best Lawyers: Bankruptcy and Creditor-Debtor Rights Lawyer of the Year (2010)
  • Boston Best Lawyers: Litigation – Bankruptcy Lawyer of the Year (2013)
  • Massachusetts Super Lawyers: Top 100 Lawyers (2009 – 2011)
  • Massachusetts Super Lawyers: Top 10 Lawyers (2007 – 2008)
  • Massachusetts Super Lawyers: Bankruptcy & Creditor/Debtor Rights (2004 – 2012)
  • Silver Shingle Award for Distinguished Service to the School of Law, Boston University (2004)

Professional & Community Involvement

  • Vice President, American College of Bankruptcy
  • Chairman, Education Committee of American College of Bankruptcy
  • Co-chair, Commission to Study the Reform of Chapter 11 of the American Bankruptcy Institute
  • Chairman, Mediation Sub-Committee on Model Rules of the American Bankruptcy Institute
  • Past national board member, American Bankruptcy Institute
  • Past director, New England Chapter of the Turnaround Management Association
  • Member, Massachusetts Bar Association
  • Member, Boston Bar Association
  • Member, Association of Commercial Finance Attorneys
  • Member, Commercial Law League of America
  • Past president, Executive Committee of Boston University School of Law Alumni Association
  • Member, Executive Committee of Boston University School of Law Alumni Association
  • Past co-chair, Charles P. Normandin Fund