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Thursday, March 11, 2010

Chapter 7 and 13 Bankruptcy

Twin Cities Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Lawyers

When people come to us overwhelmed by debt, they all have their own stories. Many are facing home foreclosure because of ARMs or job losses. Some are recently divorced and find themselves juggling a monthly budget that was set up with two incomes in mind. Others built up credit card debt. Some are faced with the double-hit of sudden medical bills and loss of income after an accident that keeps them from working.

At the law firm of Eckberg, Lammers, Briggs, Wolff & Vierling P.L.L.P., we know that most people considering personal bankruptcy are in this situation through no fault of their own. Most have tried every other option before even thinking about declaring bankruptcy. We are here to provide answers and solutions.

Filing for bankruptcy can start providing relief the very day you file, because it:

  • Stops creditor harassment
  • Stops wage garnishment
  • Halts home foreclosures and repossessions

Eckberg Lammers has been serving clients throughout the greater Twin Cities, the St. Croix Valley and Western Wisconsin since 1949, including in Washington County and communities such as Woodbury, White Bear Lake and Forest Lake. To discuss whether Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy is right for you, contact us today to set up a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys.

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy — Debt Discharge

Often called a "straight" or "asset liquidation" bankruptcy, Chapter 7 bankruptcy wipes away most types of unsecured debt. To qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you must either have an income at or below the median for your state or pass a means test. We can explain the means test to you.

Chapter 7 bankruptcy eliminates most debts, including credit card debt, medical bills, late rent payments, and personal loans. You won't automatically lose your home or car as long as you continue making those payments.

Your Eckberg Lammers bankruptcy lawyer will answer all of your questions about Chapter 7 bankruptcy, help you determine if it is right for you, and file your bankruptcy petition. About 45-60 days later, all your qualified debt is wiped out.

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy — Debt Reorganization

For many people, a single financial crisis is all it takes to push them over the edge into financial instability. Although the crisis may be temporary, it can ripple through your budget, forcing you to rack up credit card debt or make late payments in order to get by. Penalties and interest charges only add to the problem. A layoff, an illness, a divorce — even people who always live within their means can find themselves in debt with no way out.

Chapter 13 bankruptcy can be a very positive option when you could pay your debts if you only had some time and a little help. You can qualify for Chapter 13 bankruptcy even if you don't qualify for Chapter 7.

In this type of bankruptcy, the court orders a three- to five-year repayment plan based on your ability to pay. All qualifying debt, including credit card debt, medical debt, mortgage payments, student loans, car payments and others are rolled into the plan, the interest rate is at or near zero percent, and no new penalties will accumulate. Once you have completed the plan, any remaining debt included in the Chapter 13 bankruptcy is discharged.

Affordable Fees

We strive to make our fees as flexible and affordable as can be. Talk to our bankruptcy attorneys to see how affordable we can be.

When Experience Matters — Contact Us

Contact us by email or call (651) 967-7344 to determine if Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy is right for you. Our fees for consumer bankruptcy are reasonable, and we can make payment arrangements with you.

People often have many questions and concerns when considering bankruptcy. To learn more, read through some of our most frequently asked questions.

serving your legal needs for over 60 years
Stillwater Office

1809 Northwestern Avenue
Stillwater, MN 55082-7521
Telephone: (651) 967-7344
Fax: (651) 439-2923
E-Mail | Map & Directions

Hudson Office

2417 Monetary Boulevard
Hudson, WI 54016-8265
Telephone: (715) 338-3742
E-Mail | Map & Directions