Joel Newell is a litigator with almost two decades of experience focusing on complex Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings as well as receiverships, workouts, and commercial litigation, primarily in the areas of distressed real estate and other distressed assets, and the retail/restaurant/hospitality industry.
Joel’s practice also extends to probate litigation. He represents fiduciaries or beneficiaries as they navigate the difficult time of probate estate administration. Based in Phoenix, Joel is also licensed in Texas, but his practice extends across state and federal courts throughout the United States. He provides collaborative and strategic guidance that helps reach an outcome that aligns with the client’s specific needs.
Joel has previously served as chair of both the Maricopa County Bar Association and State Bar of Arizona bankruptcy sections.
Experience
Representative Matters
- In re Meridian Restaurants, LC (Utah)—representing landlords in the bankruptcy of one of Burger King’s largest franchisees, including negotiation of lease amendments and assumption and reject of leases.
- Successfully defended loan servicer in a wrongful foreclosure lawsuit commenced by borrower.
Professional Highlights
Professional Activities
American Bankruptcy Institute
Maricopa County Bar Association, Bankruptcy Section
State Bar of Arizona, Bankruptcy Section, Executive Council Member, Former Chair
State Bar of Texas, Bankruptcy Section
Speaking Engagements
Presenter, “Advanced Real Estate Issues in Bankruptcy,” National Bank of Arizona, January 28, 2021
Speaker, “Bankruptcy Litigation Seminar I,” Norton Institute on Bankruptcy Law, February 2018
Speaker, “Why Darth Vader Is Not Entitled to a Discharge,” Maricopa County Bar Association, Bankruptcy Section, February 12, 2016
Speaker, “Consumer Case Law Update,” State Bar of Arizona, Bankruptcy Section, 2016
Speaker, “Current Foreclosure Alternatives,” National Business Institute, 2011
Board Memberships & Community Service
Credit Abuse Resistance Education (CARE), Volunteer
Publications
Norton Bankruptcy Law Adviser Newsletter, January 2016
Credentials
Education
Western Michigan University Thomas M. Cooley Law School (J.D. 2007)
Anderson University (B.A. 2003)
Admissions
Arizona
Texas
U.S. Supreme Court
U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona
U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas
U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas
U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas
U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan
U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit