Bankruptcy in Jefferson County

Jefferson County is south of St. Louis and includes the cities of Arnold, Festus, and Hillsboro. It is part of the Eastern District of Missouri.

Key Information

Federal District

Eastern District of Missouri (St. Louis Division)

All bankruptcy cases from Jefferson County are filed in this district.

Nearest Courthouse

111 S 10th St, St. Louis, MO 63102

341 meetings and court hearings are typically held at this location.

Missouri Exemptions in Jefferson County

Missouri state exemptions apply. Homestead: $15,000. Vehicle: $3,000. Household goods: $3,000. Wildcard: $600 plus up to $3,250 unused homestead. Wages: 75% exempt (90% if head of household). Retirement: fully exempt. No federal exemptions in Missouri.

Exemptions determine what property you can keep in bankruptcy. See the full exemptions guide.

Filing Bankruptcy in Jefferson County

The Process

Credit counseling -- Complete an approved course within 180 days before filing ($15-25).
File your petition -- The petition is filed with the Eastern District of Missouri (St. Louis Division). The automatic stay takes effect immediately.
341 meeting -- About 30 days after filing, attend a brief meeting of creditors at 111 S 10th St, St. Louis, MO 63102.
Debtor education -- Complete a second financial course before discharge ($10-25).
Discharge -- Chapter 7: approximately 60 days after the 341 meeting. Chapter 13: after completing 3-5 year plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do Jefferson County residents file bankruptcy?

Jefferson County cases are filed in the Eastern District of Missouri, St. Louis Division. The courthouse is at 111 S 10th St, St. Louis, MO 63102. Jefferson County residents typically drive 30-45 minutes to the St. Louis courthouse for hearings.

Does Jefferson County have different exemptions than St. Louis?

No. Missouri exemptions are the same statewide. The $15,000 homestead exemption, $3,000 vehicle exemption, and all other Missouri exemptions apply equally in Jefferson County, St. Louis County, and everywhere else in Missouri.

Can I file bankruptcy to stop a foreclosure in Jefferson County?

Yes. Filing any chapter of bankruptcy triggers the automatic stay, which immediately stops foreclosure proceedings. Chapter 13 is typically the best option for saving a home because it allows you to catch up on missed mortgage payments over 3-5 years while keeping your property.