Tamika N. Wyche is a bankruptcy lawyer who helps clients facing financial hardship, whether due to medical bills or divorce. Using her knowledge of the bankruptcy code, Tamika saves vulnerable clients’ assets, all while offering a warm smile and the power of prayer.

She has been immersed in the world of legal prose and the jargon of prominent lawyers for most of her life. Her grandfather, David Paul Daniels, Esq., started a law firm in the Fairview section of Camden, NJ. While living in the suburbs of Blackwood, NJ, Tamika attended Highland High School, just minutes away from Camden. She then pursued her education at Rutgers and Widener, navigating the challenges of law school while balancing motherhood and supporting her husband.

After two decades of representing clients, Tamika remains committed to fighting for those whose voices are stifled by financial struggles and an economy that burdens American citizens with debt. Her clients come from all walks of life, with different careers and backgrounds. “I help people who are doctors, lawyers, policemen, and teachers. I have represented those who are financially dependent on social security—it all depends on who walks through the door,” she shared.

Tamika’s advocacy echoes the trailblazing legacy of Judge Bernice Bouie Donald, who in 1988 became the first female African American bankruptcy judge in the United States. Tamika is following in Judge Donald’s footsteps, carrying the torch of legal greatness.

Helping clients isn’t just about applying the law correctly; it’s also about providing proper representation. Tamika is aware of the underrepresentation of African Americans in the legal profession. A Forbes article stated, “13% of the American population is African American, but only 5% of lawyers are Black. Black people are not being fairly represented in the justice system.” Reflecting on the lack of Black representation, Tamika expressed, “I honestly don’t know why. I would love to see more of us.”

Tamika advocates for more outreach to young people, particularly in high schools, to expose them to legal careers. She believes students need to hear from practicing lawyers, not just read about them in college brochures. Unfortunately, many schools do not offer legal classes or credits. However, there is hope in New Jersey, where the Academy of Law and Public Safety is preparing students for careers in the legal field.

As a bankruptcy lawyer, Tamika plays a critical role in society, especially in times of crisis. She highlighted the trends that lead clients to her office—medical bills, divorce, job loss, and unexpected surgeries. Bankruptcy affects people across various social strata, and it disproportionately impacts Black people. A study by UPenn professor Sasha Indarte found that Black bankruptcy filers are more likely than their white counterparts to have Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 cases dismissed by the court.

What makes Tamika N. Wyche, Esq., truly special is that her law office is not just a place for legal services—it’s a sanctuary for her clients. She shared that sometimes she plays gospel music in her office, and her relationship with Jesus Christ is central to her work. One poignant moment she recalled was when a client came in with arthritis. Tamika prayed intensely for the client, ensuring they received her blessings. A few weeks later, the client revealed that their arthritis had improved, a testament to Tamika’s faith and dedication.

Tamika is deeply committed to Camden and her community. She is proud of her work with her church and her nonprofit, Community Strong Foundation, which provides groceries and free haircuts to those in need. She is excited about the future of law students, offering this advice: “They need to know that they have to love the people and not the money. If they love the people, the money will come.”