Filing a Joint Bankruptcy in St. Paul

For married couples, the stress and worry that accompany serious debt can affect both parties equally. If you and your spouse are tired of facing collection calls, it may be time to consider filing a joint bankruptcy in St. Paul.

Joint bankruptcy has some advantages over individual filing, and it also comes with the usual protections of the bankruptcy code. Our compassionate bankruptcy attorneys are here to help you eliminate your debts. To get started, schedule your free consultation with Walker & Walker Law Offices, PLLC today.

What Is a Joint Bankruptcy Filing?

A joint bankruptcy filing allows a married couple in St. Paul to file one bankruptcy case together instead of filing two cases individually. Both spouses can combine debts, income, assets, and expenses into a single case, whether you file under Chapter 7 or Chapter 13. This does not mean all debts automatically become shared, but the court reviews your full financial picture as a household.

You must be legally married at the time of filing to qualify. Unmarried partners cannot file jointly, even if they share finances. A joint filing often makes sense when both spouses carry debt or when household finances are tightly connected. Doing so gives the court a clearer view of your situation and can simplify the process compared to managing two separate cases at the same time.

The Benefits of Joint Filing

There are plenty of reasons why St. Paul couples might consider filing a joint bankruptcy.

Lower Costs

Filing one case means you pay one filing fee and typically one set of attorney fees. Two separate cases almost always cost more and require duplicate work.

Simplified Process

When filing jointly, you complete one set of paperwork, attend one meeting of creditors, and follow one case timeline. This reduces stress and keeps the process easier to manage.

Broader Debt Relief

A joint filing allows both spouses to address their debts at the same time. This avoids situations where one spouse gets relief while the other is still dealing with collection calls or lawsuits.

Better Use of Exemptions

In many cases, couples can combine or stack certain exemptions. This may allow you to protect more property than you could in separate filings, depending on how you and your spouse own certain assets.

Clear Financial Reset

A joint case creates a clean starting point for your household. Instead of managing separate outcomes, you can move forward together with a more stable financial foundation.

Exemptions for Couples

Exemptions determine what property you can keep during bankruptcy, and joint filers in St. Paul have options. The state allows filers to choose between state exemptions and federal exemptions, but you must use one system instead of mixing and matching.

For married couples filing jointly, exemptions can be more flexible. If you both have an ownership interest in an asset, you may be able to double certain exemption amounts. This often applies to personal property and, in some cases, home equity. However, doubling is not automatic. It depends on how the property is titled and which exemption system you choose.

The state’s homestead exemption is one of the most important protections for couples who own a home. It can shield a significant amount of equity, but you still need to confirm the limits and how they apply to your situation. Our attorneys can help you understand what the homestead exemption might mean for you and your spouse during your consultation.

Call a St. Paul Attorney About a Joint Bankruptcy Filing

If you are considering filing a joint bankruptcy in St. Paul, our team at Walker & Walker Law Offices, PLLC is ready to answer your questions. You deserve a fresh financial start, and we will work tirelessly to help you get it. Contact us today to learn more.