About Stephen Edward

Stephen E. Berken is a partner at Berken Cloyes, PC, where he specializes in consumer bankruptcy law in Denver, Colorado. His academic journey began at the University of California, where he earned a B.A. in Political Science, graduating cum laude in 1981. Following this, he pursued his legal education at Hastings College of the Law, University of California, earning his J.D. in 1984. Admitted to the Colorado State Bar on November 1, 1985, Mr.

Berken has dedicated over 40 years to practicing law, establishing himself as a prominent figure in the field of bankruptcy. At Berken Cloyes, PC, located at 1159 Delaware Street, Suite A, Denver, CO 80204, Mr. Berken focuses primarily on Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy cases. His expertise extends to bankruptcy adversary proceedings, where he represents clients facing complex financial challenges. His commitment to consumer bankruptcy law has positioned him as a leading attorney in the Denver area, where he advocates for individuals seeking relief from overwhelming debt. In addition to his practice, Mr. Berken plays a significant role in various professional organizations.

He serves as the Colorado state chair for the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys (NACBA) and is a founding member of the Colorado Consumer Bankruptcy Association. His leadership in these organizations reflects his dedication to improving consumer bankruptcy practices in Colorado. Notably, he has been recognized as "Bankruptcy Attorney of the Year" by 5280 Magazine for four consecutive years: 2014, 2015, 2016, and 2017. Mr. Berken's qualifications are further enhanced by his status as a board-certified expert in consumer bankruptcy law, a distinction awarded by the American Bankruptcy Board of Certification. His expertise is frequently sought after, as he has served as a speaker and panelist at various national and regional events. These include conferences hosted by the American Bankruptcy Institute (ABI) and NACBA, where he shares his insights on bankruptcy law and its implications for consumers.

Beyond his legal practice, Mr. Berken is committed to educating the next generation about financial responsibility. He is the state chair for the Credit Abuse Resistance Education (C.A.R.E.) program, which aims to teach young people the importance of sound financial practices. Additionally, he created the Colorado Debtors’ Counsel Listserv, an internet-based platform that provides resources and support to bankruptcy attorneys across the state. Through these initiatives, Mr. Berken is not only shaping the future of bankruptcy law but also empowering individuals to make informed financial decisions.

Education

University of California College of the Law, San Francisco

J.D. (1984) | law

1981

University of California - Santa Barbara

B.A. (1981) | Political Science

1979

Languages

English (Spoken, Written)

Experience

state chairman

National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Lawyers

Accepted Jurisdictions

10th Circuit
Colorado
U.S. Supreme Court

Court Admissions

U.S. Supreme Court U.S. Supreme Court
U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit U.S. Circuit Court
Colorado Supreme Court State Supreme Court

Types of Cases Handled

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Bankruptcy Adversary Proceedings

Legal Services Scope

Representation Litigation

Certifications & Awards

Certified Expert, Consumer Bankruptcy Law

American Bankruptcy Board of Certification