Helbing Law Office Logo by Timothy Helbing located in Appleton, WI serving chapter 7 and chapter 13 bankruptcy

Do you have a no-asset bankruptcy?

Most people in Wisconsin are familiar with the concept of bankruptcy. Far fewer fully understand what happens during a bankruptcy and the differences between to two primary types of bankruptcy filings, a Chapter 7 and a Chapter13. Many are fearful of filing, as they worry they could “lose everything.” This does not happen because the […]

What if you are too poor to file for bankruptcy? Pt. 2

In our last post, we discussed how a woman who could not afford to pay attorneys’ fees up front in a Chapter 7 bankruptcy filing, instead, filed a “fees only” Chapter 13. In most Chapter 13 plans, the debtor has to pay their secured debts and some percentage of unsecured debts, depending on how much […]

When are student loans eligible for bankruptcy? Two options

Taking time to pursue higher levels of education is supposed to set you up for future financial success. It is supposed to set you up for a better, higher paying job than your peers that choose not to go to college, law school, medical school or receive other post secondary training. In theory, all these […]

What if you are too poor to file for bankruptcy? Pt. 1

This seems to be an odd statement. Bankruptcy is designed to help those who have been overwhelmed by financial circumstances and allow them to receive an economic “fresh start.” How could you be “too poor” to use a tool that is designed to help the financially distressed? Not surprisingly, bankruptcy is not free. There are […]

No joke: HBO show forgives $15 million in individuals’ medical debts

People often believe that bankruptcy is used by frivolous individuals who have lived beyond their means, and now want an easy out. Sadly, the truth is that a large number of bankruptcies are due to various catastrophes hitting people and leaving them with no way out. Medical debt is a leading cause of bankruptcy. Even […]

FAQs about creditors and wage garnishment

Owe someone money? Be warned, they may take you to court. A recent analysis by ProPublica finds that millions of Americans are facing court hearings over old debts. What can a court do about debt? Courts come into play when the creditor takes the person that allegedly owes them money to court to demand payment. […]