United States Bankruptcy Court, Western District of Pennsylvania
About This Court
The United States Bankruptcy Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania is a unit of the United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania and operates within the Third Circuit. The court has jurisdiction over bankruptcy cases filed under Title 11 of the United States Code by individuals and entities located within the western portion of Pennsylvania, covering 25 counties in the region.
The district is served by multiple divisions to accommodate filers across a geographically diverse area that includes urban centers such as Pittsburgh and Erie as well as rural communities. Pittsburgh serves as the principal location for the court's operations.
As a bankruptcy court, it handles cases under all chapters of the Bankruptcy Code, including Chapter 7 liquidation, Chapter 11 reorganization, Chapter 12 family farmer and fisherman cases, and Chapter 13 wage earner plans. The court also adjudicates adversary proceedings and contested matters arising in bankruptcy cases.
Handles cases filed under the federal Bankruptcy Code within the jurisdiction of the Western District of Pennsylvania. Bankruptcy judges are appointed by the court of appeals for 14-year terms. Proceedings are governed by the Federal Rules of Bankruptcy Procedure.
Divisions
Pittsburgh Division (Pittsburgh), Erie Division (Erie), Johnstown Division (Johnstown)
Caseload
The court processes a substantial volume of consumer bankruptcy filings, particularly Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 cases, reflecting the economic demographics of western Pennsylvania. It also handles significant Chapter 11 corporate reorganization cases given Pittsburgh's industrial and commercial base.
Bar Admission
Attorneys must be admitted to practice before the United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania to appear in the bankruptcy court. Electronic filing registration with the court's CM/ECF system is also required for most practitioners.
Clerk's Office
5414 U.S. Steel Tower, 600 Grant Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
(412) 644-2700
Local Rules
The Local Rules of the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania, which supplement the Federal Rules of Appellate Procedure. See the court's official website for the authoritative text.