Biography
Blake Cleary continues to act on impressive Chapter 11 cases. His expertise on restructuring matters is highly sought after by distressed companies and is complemented by his broader experience in creditor-side mandates. "Blake is a highly pragmatic and effective lawyer with a knack for negotiation, and a persuasive and commanding court room demeanor." "Blake is a great advocate and a very effective lawyer. He excels at helping clients with strategic decisions in bankruptcy and is a consummate team player." "He always finds a path out of the trickiest of situations - he works tirelessly to find creative solutions." "He is incredibly impressive in litigation and in his strategy."
– Extracts from recent editions of Chambers USA
Blake is the co-head of Potter Anderson's bankruptcy team. He is one of the elite of the Delaware bankruptcy bar and brings to each assignment a level of earned respect among the judges and fellow practitioners from the moment he gets involved. Blake excels at handling complex issues for portfolio companies, directors, management, and creditors that arise in change of control transactions whether through a chapter 11 plan or a 363 sale. Whether representing debtors, lenders, or unsecured creditor committees, Blake approaches the Chapter 11 process as a search for the best possible outcome.
Practice Areas
Professional Activities & Recognition
Honors & Recognitions
The Deal, named as a "Top Bankruptcy Lawyer," 2009-Present
The Best Lawyers in America®, Bankruptcy and Creditor-Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law, 2013 - Present
Chambers USA - America's Leading Lawyers for Business, Bankruptcy/Restructuring, 2014 - Present
Professional
American Bankruptcy Institute, Member
American Bar Association, Member
Delaware State Bar Association, Member
Delaware Bankruptcy American Inn of Court, Member
Turnaround Management Association, Member
Association of Insolvency & Restructuring Advisors, Member
Education
Widener University Delaware Law School, J.D.
University of Virginia, B.A.
Bar & Court Admissions
Clerkships
- Honorable Maurice A. Hartnett, III, Supreme Court of the State of Delaware
Bar Admissions
- Delaware
- Pennsylvania
- U.S. District Court for the District of Delaware
- U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit