Bankruptcy Attorneys Representing New Ulm, MN
If overwhelming debt is holding you back, Behm Law Group, Ltd. can help. We have over 25 years of experience filing Chapter 7, Chapter 12, and Chapter 13 bankruptcies for clients in the New Ulm area.
Our attorneys not only understand bankruptcy law but also have strong personal ties to the community—attending events like Bavarian Blast, Oktoberfest, and local scrapbooking clinics—allowing us to connect with clients on a deeper level.
We guide clients through every step of the bankruptcy process, including meeting in person and reviewing mortgages at the Brown County Recorder’s Office. This attention to detail has helped clients remove judgment liens via the bankruptcy lien strip protocol under local rule 3012-1, supporting a faster path to financial recovery.
Take the first step toward financial freedom—contact Behm Law Group, Ltd. today.
Common Reasons New Ulm Residents File Bankruptcy
Medical Debt
Unexpected medical emergencies and ongoing healthcare costs can quickly overwhelm even financially stable families. Medical bills are one of the leading causes of bankruptcy filings in Minnesota and can be discharged in both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy.
Job Loss or Income Reduction
Losing employment or experiencing a significant reduction in income can make it impossible to keep up with existing debt obligations. Bankruptcy provides a fresh start when circumstances beyond your control have affected your ability to pay.
Divorce
Divorce often leads to financial strain as households split assets while maintaining similar debt levels. The division of property, legal fees, and transition to single-income living can make bankruptcy necessary for a fresh financial start.
Foreclosure Prevention
If you’re facing foreclosure on your New Ulm home, Chapter 13 bankruptcy can stop the foreclosure process and allow you to catch up on missed mortgage payments over time while keeping your home.
Credit Card Debt
High-interest credit card debt can spiral out of control, especially when minimum payments barely cover interest charges. Bankruptcy can eliminate these unsecured debts and provide relief from overwhelming balances.
Business Debt
Small business owners in New Ulm who have personally guaranteed business debts may find themselves personally liable when a business struggles. Bankruptcy can provide relief from both business and personal obligations.
The Bankruptcy Process: What to Expect
1
Initial Consultation
During your free consultation with Behm Law Group, we review your financial situation, discuss your goals, and explain which bankruptcy chapter fits your needs. We answer all questions and provide honest guidance on your options.
2
Credit Counseling Requirement
Before filing, you must complete a credit counseling course from an approved provider. This course helps you understand your finances, explore alternatives to bankruptcy, and learn basic money management.
3
Preparing Your Bankruptcy Petition
We help you gather all necessary financial documents, including income records, tax returns, property valuations, debt information, and expenses. Our team handles all paperwork and ensures proper filing with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court.
4
Filing Your Case
Once your petition is complete, we file it electronically with the court. This triggers the automatic stay, stopping most collection actions, lawsuits, foreclosures, repossessions, and wage garnishments.
5
The 341 Meeting of Creditors
Before filing, you must complete a credit counseling course from an approved provider. This course helps you understand your finances, explore alternatives to bankruptcy, and learn money management basics. It can usually be completed online in a few hours, and we provide a list of approved providers.
6
Debtor Education Course
Before receiving your discharge, you must complete a debtor education course. This teaches budgeting and money management to help avoid future financial problems. Like credit counseling, it can usually be completed online through an approved provider.
7
Receiving Your Discharge
In Chapter 7, discharge typically occurs 60-90 days after the 341 meeting. In Chapter 13, discharge comes after completing the 3-5 year repayment plan. Discharge eliminates your legal obligation to pay the listed debts.
8
Life After Bankruptcy
After discharge, focus on rebuilding financial health by budgeting, monitoring credit reports, and responsibly reestablishing credit. Our team can guide strategies to improve financial standing and avoid future debt. Bankruptcy gives a fresh start, but planning ensures long-term stability.
Why Choose Behm Law Group for Your New Ulm Bankruptcy?
Exclusively Focused on Bankruptcy Law
We specialize solely in bankruptcy law, giving us extensive knowledge and experience in handling Chapter 7, Chapter 13, and Chapter 12 bankruptcy cases. Our deep focus ensures expert guidance through the entire bankruptcy process.
Over 25 Years of Experience
With over 25 years of experience handling bankruptcy cases in New Ulm, we understand local bankruptcy procedures and requirements better than anyone, offering you unparalleled legal expertise in your case.
Local Knowledge and Relationships
Our strong ties to the New Ulm community and experience with local bankruptcy trustees, creditors, and courts allow us to navigate your case smoothly. We also help eliminate judgment liens through our local bankruptcy rule knowledge, aiding your financial recovery.
Personalized Attention
We believe in treating each client as an individual. You’ll receive one-on-one attention directly from our experienced attorneys, ensuring every detail of your case is meticulously handled with care and dedication.
Transparent, Affordable Fees
We provide clear, upfront pricing with no hidden costs. Our flexible payment plans ensure bankruptcy representation is accessible, offering financial relief without additional stress.
Comprehensive Service Area
While our office is located in Mankato, we proudly serve clients across southern Minnesota, including New Ulm, Waseca, Austin, Fairmont, and more, bringing top-notch bankruptcy services to communities across the region.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bankruptcy in New Ulm
Will I Lose Everything If I File Bankruptcy?
No. Minnesota has generous bankruptcy exemptions that protect most property. The vast majority of our clients keep their homes, vehicles, household goods, retirement accounts, and other essential property.
Can Bankruptcy Stop Wage Garnishment?
Yes. Filing bankruptcy immediately stops wage garnishments through the automatic stay. Any wages garnished within 90 days before filing may potentially be recovered.
Will My Employer Find Out About My Bankruptcy?
Your employer will only be notified if they’re a creditor or if wages are being garnished. Otherwise, bankruptcy filings are public record but not typically monitored by employers.
Can I Keep My Car If I File Bankruptcy?
In most cases, yes. If you’re current on your car loan and the vehicle’s equity is protected by exemptions, you can keep your car by continuing to make payments. In Chapter 13, you may even be able to reduce your car loan balance or interest rate.
How Long Does Bankruptcy Stay on My Credit Report?
Chapter 7 bankruptcy remains on your credit report for 10 years from the filing date. Chapter 13 bankruptcy remains for 7 years from the filing date.
Can I File Bankruptcy on Some Debts But Not Others?
You must list all debts when filing bankruptcy, but you can choose to voluntarily repay certain debts after receiving your discharge. You can also reaffirm secured debts like car loans or mortgages to keep the property.
What Debts Cannot Be Discharged in Bankruptcy?
Certain debts are non-dischargeable, including most student loans, recent income taxes, child support, alimony, debts incurred through fraud, criminal restitution, and debts not listed in your bankruptcy petition.
How Often Can I File Bankruptcy?
The timing between bankruptcy filings depends on the chapters involved. Generally, you must wait 8 years between Chapter 7 filings, 4 years between a Chapter 7 and a subsequent Chapter 13, and 2 years between Chapter 13 filings.
Contact Our Bankruptcy Attorneys in New Ulm, MN Today
If you’re considering filing for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy, don’t face it alone. At Behm Law Group, Ltd., we guide clients through every step of this challenging process with experience, care, and a deep connection to the New Ulm community. From reviewing your finances to filing petitions and attending meetings, we’re here to help you regain control of your financial future. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a fresh start.
