About Michael M.
Michael M. Astanehe earned his law degree at the University of California College of the Law, San Francisco, receiving his J.D. in 2016. He completed his legal training in a period of rapid change in consumer and business bankruptcy law. The law school environment sharpened his interest in insolvency work and practical courtroom practice.
Soon after graduating, Astanehe gained admission to practice in California and secured admission to the U.S. Bankruptcy Court. Those admissions have shaped the arc of his practice. He appears in bankruptcy proceedings and handles related matters that often cross between federal and state systems. He has worked on cases that require both courtroom appearances and negotiated resolutions outside of litigation.
His practice centers on bankruptcy and insolvency matters. He represents individual debtors seeking relief, businesses pursuing reorganization, and creditors asserting claims in bankruptcy. His files typically include Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 consumer cases, as well as Chapter 11 business reorganizations. He prepares petitions, negotiates with creditors and trustees, and conducts hearings in bankruptcy court when necessary.
Colleagues describe him as methodical in his preparation and direct in court. He emphasizes clear pleadings and timely filings. He also spends time counseling clients about the practical consequences of bankruptcy: what to expect at a 341 meeting, how asset exemptions work, and what repayment plans require. That mix of courtroom work and client counseling defines much of his day-to-day practice.
Astanehe practices under the firm name Astanehe Law. The firm maintains offices and serves clients in matters arising under California law and in federal bankruptcy court. He manages case workflow, client intake, and litigation strategy at the firm. The practice handles both individual and business matters and often coordinates with other professionals such as accountants and trustees to pursue orderly resolutions.
Outside of filing deadlines and court calendars, he keeps current on bankruptcy procedure and local rules that affect deadlines and relief available to clients. He regularly assesses how changes in law and local practice affect case strategy. He maintains an active caseload and is available to represent clients in bankruptcy proceedings in California and before the U.S. Bankruptcy Court.
His current practice focuses on bankruptcy and insolvency matters for individuals and businesses.
