How much does it cost to hire James for a bankruptcy case?

Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. James walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

Does James offer a free consultation?

James charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain James's office. Some bankruptcy attorneys offer free consults — check James's current terms during booking.

How long do bankruptcy cases in Minnesota typically take?

Simple bankruptcy matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. James gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

Can James take my case if I'm outside Elk River?

James is licensed in Minnesota. Matters governed by Minnesota law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — James will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

What should I bring to my first meeting with James?

Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. James will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

Is James accepting new bankruptcy clients right now?

James's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.

James Hess, Bankruptcy Attorney in Elk River

Quick answer

James Hess is a founder based in Elk River, MN. The practice focuses on Bankruptcy, Business, and Chapter 13. James has over 32 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Hess & Jendro Law Office, P.A.. Rated 5.0 out of 5 from 6 client reviews.

Based in: Elk River, MN
Experience: over 32 years
Known for: Bankruptcy · Business · Chapter 13

Handles Bankruptcy, Business, and Chapter 13 matters from Elk River, MN.
Over 32 years of practice as a licensed attorney.
Recognized with Peer Reviewed.

Areas of practice

Practice areas handled by James Hess

James concentrates on bankruptcy, business, chapter 13, chapter 7, and child support. Each area below outlines the kind of case James handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

Bankruptcy cases in Elk River, Minnesota

James takes bankruptcy matters in Elk River, Minnesota. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before James agrees to represent you.

Business cases in Elk River, Minnesota

James takes business matters in Elk River, Minnesota. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before James agrees to represent you.

Chapter 13 cases in Elk River, Minnesota

James takes chapter 13 matters in Elk River, Minnesota. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before James agrees to represent you.

Chapter 7 cases in Elk River, Minnesota

James takes chapter 7 matters in Elk River, Minnesota. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before James agrees to represent you.

Child Support cases in Elk River, Minnesota

James takes child support matters in Elk River, Minnesota. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before James agrees to represent you.

Biography

About James Hess — Over 32 years of Minnesota bankruptcy experience

James Hess is a founder based in Elk River, MN. The practice focuses on Bankruptcy, Business, and Chapter 13. James has over 32 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Hess & Jendro Law Office, P.A.. Rated 5.0 out of 5 from 6 client reviews.

As the founder of Hess & Jendro Law Office, P.A., I have over 20 years of legal experience and focus primarily on business and real estate law. I spend significant time handling commercial transactions for businesses, banks and title insurers and represent numerous clients in the litigation of contract, business and real estate matters. I also practie in the areas of estate planning and probate. In my spare time, I love nordic skiing and am an avid fisherman/outdoorsman. I enjoy spending time with my two sons at our cabin in Ely, Minnesota.

I’m currently serving as vice president of the Upper Mississippi Smallmouth Club. I also serve on the Elk River “Beyond the Yellow Ribbon” Committee for Business and Employment.. I also have served as a ski parent/ assistant coach for the Minnesota Youth Cross Country Ski League.

Representative Clients:

The Bank of Elk River, a Minnesota corporation

M&O Fabricating, Inc.

Old Republic National Title Insurance Corporation

SRW Products, Inc., a Nevada corporation

Elk River Chamber of Commerce, 2000 - present. Graduate of the Elk River Leadership program.

Pro-bono legal services through Central Minnesota Legal Services 1997 - present. Recipient of Letters of Commendation from three Governors.

Member of the Minnesota State Bar Association. Qualified MN State Arbitrator.

Working with James on a bankruptcy matter

As the founder of Hess & Jendro Law Office, P.A., I have over 20 years of legal experience and focus primarily on business and real estate law. I spend significant time handling commercial transactions for businesses, banks and title insurers and represent numerous clients in the litigation of contract, business and real estate matters. I also practie in the areas of estate planning and probate.…

Who James represents

James reviews new inquiries case-by-case for bankruptcy, business, and chapter 13 matters in Elk River and the surrounding Minnesota area.

Credentials

James Hess's legal education and bar admissions

William Mitchell College of Law
J.D. · 1994
University of Wisconsin-Madison
B.S. Economics · 1988

Jurisdictions

James's state bar admissions

United States Distri
1998 · ACTIVE
United States Court
1994 · ACTIVE
United States Distri
1994 · ACTIVE
Minnesota
1994 · ACTIVE

James studied at J.D. in William Mitchell College of Law and B.S. Economics in University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Law school and academic background

James completed J.D. in William Mitchell College of Law and B.S. Economics in University of Wisconsin-Madison. Formal legal training is one signal of substantive knowledge — the day-to-day practice James runs in Minnesota is where that training gets applied to real client questions.

Recognition

Awards, publications, and recognition of James Hess

James has received 1 formal recognition from bar associations, industry bodies, and peer-review services.

Peer Reviewed

Legal awards and honors

Peer Reviewed.

Locations

James Hess's office in Elk River

James's primary office is at The Pines Town Office Park, 11070 - 183rd Circle NW, Suite A, Elk River, MN, 55330. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Main office

Hess & Jendro Law Office, P.A.

The Pines Town Office Park, 11070 - 183rd Circle NW, Suite A

Elk River, MN 55330

Open in Google Maps

Client feedback

Client reviews of James Hess — 5.0/5 rating from 6 verified client reviews

Every review below is from a verified client of James. Reviews cover communication, case outcome, and value — the three signals that matter most when comparing bankruptcy attorneys in Elk River.

5.0

6 client reviews

Client ratings are sourced from public records and editorial research. Reviews on LawyersListed are accepted from verified clients once James Hess claims this profile.

Read all reviews

Hiring guide

How to hire James Hess — what to expect in your first consultation

Working with a new bankruptcy attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with James usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Consultation formats and pricing

James charges for the initial consult. That fee is credited toward representation if you retain James's office.

What to bring to your first meeting

Bring any documents you already have — police reports, medical records, filed pleadings, correspondence from an insurer, a copy of the contract at issue. If you're not sure, err on the side of bringing everything; James will tell you what matters and what doesn't.

Questions to ask a bankruptcy attorney in Elk River, Minnesota

A short list to run through before you commit: How many bankruptcy matters have you handled in the last year? What's your fee structure? Who else in the office will work on this? What's your realistic estimate of timeline and range of outcomes? How do I reach you between meetings?

Fees & payment

Fees, payment methods, and consultation options for James

James discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in bankruptcy practice — ask which fits.

Hourly rates, contingency fees, and flat-fee options

Every bankruptcy matter is priced differently. Simple document review might be a flat fee. Injury litigation is often contingency. Complex commercial disputes usually run hourly with a retainer. James confirms the model in the engagement letter before any work starts.

Payment methods and payment plans

James's office accepts standard payment methods. Ask about payment plans if the retainer is a stretch — many bankruptcy practices work with clients on structured schedules.

Frequently asked

Frequently asked questions about James Hess

How much does it cost to hire James for a bankruptcy case?
Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. James walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.
Does James offer a free consultation?
James charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain James's office. Some bankruptcy attorneys offer free consults — check James's current terms during booking.
How long do bankruptcy cases in Minnesota typically take?
Simple bankruptcy matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. James gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.
Can James take my case if I'm outside Elk River?
James is licensed in Minnesota. Matters governed by Minnesota law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — James will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.
What should I bring to my first meeting with James?
Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. James will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.
Is James accepting new bankruptcy clients right now?
James's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.

Community Q&A

Real questions asked by Minnesota residents in the last few months, answered by bankruptcy attorneys like James Hess. Each link opens the full answer thread.

Will Filing Bankruptcy Stop Wage Garnishment In Minnesota?
I live in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and my wages are getting garnished because of an unpaid credit card. I’m thinking about filing for bankruptcy to stop the garnishment. Will my ban
1 verified answer · Bankruptcy · Minnesota
Does Filing Bankruptcy Stop Foreclosure In New York?
I’m facing foreclosure on my home in Buffalo, New York, and I’m considering filing for bankruptcy as a last resort. My mortgage lender has already sent me a notice. If I file for C
1 verified answer · Bankruptcy · New York
How Much Will Bankruptcy Cost Me In Michigan?
I live in Detroit, Michigan, and I’m exploring my bankruptcy options. I’ve heard filing can be expensive, but I need to know what to expect in terms of legal fees and court costs.
1 verified answer · Bankruptcy · Michigan
Can I Get A Loan After Filing Bankruptcy In Washington?
I filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Seattle, Washington, six months ago, and I'm starting to think about my financial future. How soon can I apply for a personal loan after bankrup
1 verified answer · Bankruptcy · Washington
What Are The Consequences Of Bankruptcy In Maryland?
I’m considering bankruptcy in Baltimore, Maryland, and I'm worried about the potential consequences, like losing property or having my credit ruined. What are some common consequen
1 verified answer · Bankruptcy · Maryland
Can Bankruptcy Help With Medical Bills In Texas?
I racked up around $15,000 in medical bills after an emergency surgery last year in Houston, Texas. I’m struggling to keep up with payments, and I’m considering bankruptcy. Will fi
1 verified answer · Bankruptcy · Texas

Areas served

Bankruptcy attorneys serving Elk River, Minneapolis and St Paul in Minnesota

James handles bankruptcy matters throughout Minnesota. Each city below is a direct link into the search page for verified bankruptcy attorneys in that community.

James Hess, Bankruptcy Attorney in Elk River, Minnesota

Quick answer