- Divorce
- Child SupportKeep in mind that if you are ordered to reimburse an ex-spouse for medical bills through a divorce decree or other order of a court, you may have to pay this kind of debt, or be held in contempt of court. Medical bills in such a case could be held to be "in the nature of child support," and not discharged by bankruptcy. 11 U.S.C. Sec. 523(a)(5).
- GuardianshipIt is important to have a will to specify your wishes after your passing. A will is a legal document that specifies who will inherit your property when you are gone. If you have minor children, you may also name a “personal guardian” who will take care of them after your death and if the other parent dies or if the surviving parent is not able to take care of the children. Personal guardians typically have legal guardianship of children until they turn 18.
- Spousal SupportDebts incurred through fraudulent activity, student loans, tax debts, child support, and alimony are typically not dischargeable in bankruptcy.
- Criminal DefenseShari began working for the firm in September of 2006 as John’s paralegal and hasn’t looked back since. Before coming to work for Lamey Law Firm, P.A., Shari interned at a criminal law firm in downtown Minneapolis, and had no prior experience working with bankruptcy cases, but found it to be very rewarding.
- Corporate LawAttorney Lamey has a background in bankruptcy, secured lending, and general business and corporate law, including having worked as in-house counsel for a local bank. This provides him with extensive knowledge and expertise which makes him a valuable counselor and advocate.
- Real Estate LitigationBefore coming to work for Lamey Law Firm, P.A., she worked in the foreclosure sector of real estate law. She is looking forward to working in the area of bankruptcy law and enjoys working to help people. Bankruptcy is a difficult time however it’s not the end; only a new beginning. When Melissa is not at work she enjoys reading, spending time with family and friends, and volunteering at her church and other organizations.
- Estate PlanningSetting your estate’s affairs in order is a proactive measure that we should all take, no matter what stage in life we are currently in. If you need legal assistance with estate planning, we at Lamey Law Firm, P.A. can help you ensure that your estate and loved ones will be protected when you are no longer able to do so.
- Wills
- TrustsA living trust is a trust that is created while you are still alive versus trusts that are created after your death and follow the terms of your will. The trust arranges who the trustee is and specifies what property they hold legal title to for beneficiaries. You can be the trustee of your own living trust and keep control of any property that is in the trust.
- Power of AttorneyA power of attorney is written permission that gives an agent the power to handle matters that involve your finances or property. The person who is given power of attorney is called the “attorney-in-fact.” The person who is giving permission is referred to as the “principal”. What the attorney-in-fact can or cannot do may be specified in the power of attorney form. Otherwise, they are typically responsible for keeping records of your transactions.
- Probate
- BankruptcyAlthough the Chapter 13 bankruptcy process can take several years to complete, it is just as effective as Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Chapter 13 bankruptcy requires that debtors repay creditors through an agreed-upon repayment plan. Debtors will make monthly payments until their reorganized debts have been paid back.
- ForeclosureIf your home is being foreclosed, speak with our firm to find out how you can protect your home before it's too late. The longer you wait, the more difficult it becomes to stop the foreclosure process and retain your home.
- Debt CollectionDebtors have many protections under federal law, and those in Minnesota have additional protections under Minn. Stat. §§332.31 to 332.45. These laws protect Minnesota debtors from harassment by collection agencies and the original debt collectors. Debt collectors are also required to be licensed in Minnesota.