Bankruptcy Attorneys Representing Mankato, MN
If you’re struggling with overwhelming debt, working with a trusted Mankato, MN bankruptcy attorney can make all the difference. At Behm Law Group, Ltd., we proudly serve local residents facing financial hardship and provide experienced representation in Chapter 7, Chapter 13, and Chapter 12 bankruptcy cases.
Stephen Behm and Isabelle Lewis-Behm have lived in the Mankato area since 1998 and 2003 and are deeply committed to protecting the people in their community. Stephen brings extensive bankruptcy experience, including work as a part-time public defender with the Fifth Judicial District Public Defender’s Office and years focused exclusively on bankruptcy law. Isabelle previously served as Assistant County Attorney with the Blue Earth County Attorney’s Office, gaining valuable insight into the legal system.
As longtime Mankato residents raising their family here, Stephen and Isabelle understand the challenges local individuals and families face. If you’re ready to explore your bankruptcy options with attorneys who truly care about the Mankato community, contact Behm Law Group today to schedule your free consultation.
Common Reasons Mankato 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 Mankato 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 Mankato 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
Meet with a bankruptcy attorney to review your financial situation, debts, income, and assets. This consultation helps determine whether bankruptcy is appropriate and which chapter best fits your goals and long-term financial needs.
2
Credit Counseling Requirement
Before filing, you must complete a credit counseling course from an approved provider. This session reviews budgeting basics and alternatives to bankruptcy and is required to proceed with your case.
3
Preparing Your Bankruptcy Petition
Your attorney gathers financial documents, prepares schedules, and completes all required bankruptcy forms. Accuracy is critical, as these documents outline debts, assets, income, and expenses for the court.
4
Filing Your Case
Once your bankruptcy case is filed, the automatic stay takes effect immediately, stopping creditor calls, wage garnishments, lawsuits, and collection actions. Your case is officially opened with the court and assigned to a bankruptcy trustee for review and administration.
5
The 341 Meeting of Creditors
You will attend a short meeting with the bankruptcy trustee to confirm the accuracy of your filed information. Creditors are allowed to attend but rarely appear. You’ll answer basic questions under oath regarding your finances and assets.
6
Debtor Education Course
After your case is filed, you must complete a second required debtor education course. This course focuses on financial management and responsible budgeting and must be completed before your bankruptcy can be finalized.
7
Receiving Your Discharge
Once all court requirements are satisfied, the judge issues a discharge order. This order legally removes qualifying debts and releases you from personal responsibility for those financial obligations going forward.
8
Life After Bankruptcy
After discharge, you can begin rebuilding your credit. With proper planning, smart financial habits, and professional guidance, many people experience improved finances and create a stronger, more secure foundation for the future.
Why Choose Behm Law Group for Your Mankato Bankruptcy?
Exclusively Focused on Bankruptcy Law
Unlike general practice attorneys, we focus exclusively on bankruptcy law. This specialization means we have deep expertise in all aspects of Chapter 7, Chapter 13, and Chapter 12 bankruptcy cases
Local Knowledge and Relationships
As longtime Mankato residents, we have extensive experience working with local bankruptcy trustees, creditors, and the U.S. Bankruptcy Court. This local knowledge benefits our clients throughout the bankruptcy process.
Personalized Attention
We treat every client as an individual with unique circumstances. You’ll work directly with experienced attorneys, not paralegals or support staff, throughout your case.
Transparent, Affordable Fees
We offer clear, upfront pricing with no hidden fees. We also provide flexible payment plans to make quality bankruptcy representation accessible to those who need it.
Comprehensive Service Area
While our office is conveniently located in Mankato, MN. We serve clients throughout southern Minnesota including Waseca, Fairmont, Austin, Albert Lea, Blue Earth, St. Peter, Madison, Marshall, Redwood Falls, Worthington, Luverne, Granite Falls, Ivanhoe, Windom, Jackson, Pipestone, and communities along the South Dakota border.
Proven Results and Ongoing Support
We have a strong track record of successfully helping individuals and families eliminate debt and regain financial stability. From your first consultation through final discharge—and even after your case is complete—we’re available to answer questions and provide guidance so you feel confident every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bankruptcy in Mankato
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 Mankato, MN Today
If you’re facing overwhelming debt, now is the time to get trusted legal guidance from experienced Mankato bankruptcy attorneys. At Behm Law Group, Ltd., we make it easy to get started with convenient office access and personalized support throughout every stage of the bankruptcy process.
Our firm helps individuals and businesses file Chapter 7, Chapter 13, and Chapter 12 bankruptcy, providing clear answers and compassionate guidance when you need it most. Schedule your free consultation today and let Behm Law Group help you regain financial control, protect what matters most, and move forward with confidence.
