Dean A. Ziehl

Dean A. Ziehl: Leading Insolvency and Litigation Attorney

Dean A. Ziehl is a nationally recognized leader in insolvency and litigation, providing expert legal counsel to businesses and individuals navigating complex financial challenges. With over four decades of experience, Mr. Ziehl has built a distinguished reputation as a strategic and results-oriented attorney, consistently achieving favorable outcomes for his clients across a wide range of complex legal matters.

Since founding the firm in 1983, Mr. Ziehl has overseen its remarkable growth into the nation’s largest law firm specializing in insolvency matters, demonstrating a deep commitment to providing exceptional legal service and innovative solutions. Admitted to the bar in both California and New York, he brings a uniquely broad perspective and expertise to each case, expertly handling matters from initial consultation through final resolution.

Mr. Ziehl’s deep bench of experience is underscored by his extensive trial experience in both state and federal courts, coupled with his comprehensive understanding of bankruptcy law and complex business litigation. He has represented debtors, creditor committees, bondholders, trustees, examiners, and equity holders in some of the most high-profile engagements in recent history, including the landmark chapter 11 cases of Lehman Brothers, Adelphia Communications, American Suzuki Motor Corporation and TK Holdings (Takata), demonstrating his ability to manage highly complex and sensitive situations.

His track record includes involvement in numerous other significant chapter 11 cases, such as Washington Mutual, Mike Tyson, Webvan Group, Chrysler Corporation and Polaroid Corporation. Currently, he serves as the liquidation trustee and disbursing agent for SFX Liquidating Trust and as chair of the trustees overseeing the liquidations of Adelphia Communications and Physiotherapy Associates, further solidifying his leadership role within the insolvency landscape. He has also represented the National Association of Bankruptcy Trustees as amicus curiae in the U.S. Supreme Court, showcasing his commitment to legal advocacy and the highest standards of the profession. Moreover, his extensive appellate experience, including numerous appearances in federal courts of appeal and state supreme and appellate courts, ensures a thorough and strategically driven approach to all matters.

Recognized consistently for his exceptional legal abilities and ethical standards, Mr. Ziehl has earned an “AV Preeminent Peer Rating” from Martindale-Hubbell, the firm's highest honor. He has also been voted by his business litigation peers as a