With a focus on financial restructuring, bankruptcy, and creditors’ rights, Ben delivers strategic, steady guidance to clients navigating some of their most challenging business moments. Known for simplifying the intricacies of insolvency and enforcement law, he works closely with clients to minimize risk, enforce secured rights, and recover value through practical, cost-effective solutions. “Ben is exceptionally responsive, thoughtful, and thorough. He brings the right team to the table, collaborates closely on strategy, and delivers high-quality work under tight deadlines. His deep understanding of the mortgage industry and skill with pro se litigants made him the clear choice for our case.”
Ben focuses his practice on representing regional and national banks, private credit providers, and institutional lenders in matters that involve significant financial exposure and operational complexity. He partners with clients to protect their interests, recover value, and maintain compliance in challenging financial environments. His work includes:
Representing creditors in Chapter 7, 11, 12, and 13 bankruptcy proceedings
Handling receivership litigation and related lender enforcement actions
Litigating breach of contract claims, suits on notes, and collection matters
Advising on lien priority disputes and title-related concerns
Supporting secured lenders in enforcing collateral rights and maximizing recovery
Assisting with the management and disposition of foreclosed properties
Developing and refining compliance policies for loan servicing clients
Beyond his client work, Ben is deeply involved in the firm’s leadership and culture. He was recently elected Partner in Charge of the firm’s Kansas City office, where he promotes firm-wide initiatives, and advocates for a collaborative and client-focused workplace. He also chairs his practice group’s recruiting efforts to ensure appropriate staffing for client needs and serves on the firm’s Professional Development Committee, supporting legal training and career growth for attorneys nationwide. A trusted mentor, he is routinely appointed as a transitional advisor to help integrate new associates into the firm and the practice of law. From 2016 to 2018, he also served on the Attorney Advisory Committee for the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Western District of Missouri, contributing to discussions on procedural improvements within the court.
When asked...
Why did you become a lawyer?
I studied English at a liberal arts college which helped me develop my critical thinking and communication skills, and I wanted a career where I had the opportunity to use those skills every day. What drives me in this profession is the opportunity to help people—particularly in moments when the stakes are high and the path forward is uncertain. Many of my clients come to me facing intense financial pressure, often with the future of their business and employees on the line. It’s incredibly meaningful to be able to guide them through those moments, help them stabilize, and chart a course toward more secure ground.
What do you do outside of work?
Community involvement has always been important to me. I currently serve on the board of Job One KC, a nonprofit dedicated to creating meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities throughout the Kansas City area. Before that, I was a board member with the Johnson County Library Foundation from 2022 to 2024, where I focused on fundraising and increasing community engagement with the library system. Outside of board service, I’ve spent more than two decades coaching youth sports and supporting my sons’ involvement in various teams across the city. I’ve coached basketball in the Parochial League of Kansas City, as well as soccer and baseball in a variety of local leagues. It’s been a great way to give back, connect with families in the community, be present and engaged with my children, and help young athletes grow both on and off the field.
Achieved complete dismissal of a state court assignment for the benefit of creditors preference lawsuit, saving the client from nearly $1,000,000 in potential liability.
Represented a banking client in a commercial litigation matter involving enforcement of a personal guaranty, where we obtained a judgment in excess of $8,000,000
Represented multiple lenders in receivership actions involving apartment complexes, coordinating asset preservation and income stabilization during ongoing litigation.
Represented franchisor client enforce franchise agreement rights during Chapter 11 Bankruptcy.
Credentials
Education
University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Law (J.D., 2004)
Doane College (B.A., English, 2001)
Admissions
Bar Admissions
Missouri
Kansas
Court Admissions
U.S. District Courtfor the Districtof Kansas
U.S. District Courtfor the Eastern Districtof Kentucky
U.S. District Courtfor the Eastern Districtof Missouri
U.S. District Courtfor the Western Districtof Kentucky
U.S. District Courtfor the Western Districtof Missouri
