Southfield Bankruptcy Attorney

Chapter 13 & Chapter 7 Help for Oakland County Families

When financial pressure starts to build, it can be hard to know where to turn. Maybe you’re behind on bills, receiving collection calls, dealing with wage garnishment, or worried about protecting your home or vehicle. Whatever brought you here, you’re not alone — and there are options.

At Acclaim Legal Services, our Southfield bankruptcy attorneys help individuals and families throughout Oakland County regain stability through Chapter 13 and Chapter 7 bankruptcy. For some people, that means stopping foreclosure. For others, it means reorganizing debt, addressing tax issues, or finding a realistic way forward after an unexpected financial setback.

Our role is to provide clear guidance, steady support, and solutions that fit your situation — so you can make informed decisions with confidence.

Call 248-443-7033 or schedule a free, confidential consultation to speak with a Southfield bankruptcy attorney.

Local Experience That Matters

Our Southfield office has served Oakland County residents for more than 20 years, helping individuals and families in Southfield, Troy, Birmingham, Royal Oak, Farmington Hills, and surrounding communities navigate Chapter 13 and Chapter 7 bankruptcy. We regularly work with local trustees and courts, allowing us to provide guidance grounded in real Oakland County experience. 

Southfield Bankruptcy Law Office

Our Southfield office is on Lahser Road, conveniently located just south of the Lahser exits for I-696 and M10.

Address

One Lahser Center
26400 Lahser Road, Suite 230
Southfield, MI 48033
Directions >>

Phone

248-443-7033
Toll-free: 866-965-2857

If you're exploring your options, feel free to call or text 248-840-3368 after hours with questions or to schedule a complimentary consultation.

Contact Form

Schedule a free consultation >> 

Hours

• Monday: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
• Tuesday: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
• Wednesday: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
• Thursday: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
• Friday: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
• Saturday: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

A Steady, Practical Approach to Bankruptcy

Most people who contact us aren’t looking for shortcuts. They’re looking for clarity, structure, and a way to protect what they’ve worked hard for — their home, their income, and their sense of stability.

Bankruptcy can be a powerful legal tool when it’s used thoughtfully and planned carefully. At our Southfield office, we focus on creating realistic solutions based on:

• Your income and monthly expenses
• Your goals (saving a home, stopping garnishment, eliminating debt)
• Local court and trustee requirements
• Long-term sustainability

Whether you’re considering Chapter 13 or Chapter 7, we take the time to explain how each option works and what it would realistically look like in your situation.

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy in Southfield

A Structured Path Toward Financial Stability

For many Oakland County families, Chapter 13 bankruptcy provides the structure needed to regain control during a difficult financial period.

Chapter 13 allows you to reorganize debts into a court-approved repayment plan, usually lasting three to five years. During that time, creditors must stop collection efforts, giving you space to catch up and move forward.

Chapter 13 may help you:

• Stop foreclosure or prevent a future foreclosure
• Stop vehicle repossession
• Catch up on missed mortgage or car payments over time
• Stop wage garnishment
• Address property tax debt
• Manage IRS or priority tax obligations
• Consolidate debts into one predictable monthly payment

Because Chapter 13 plans must be approved by the court, preparation matters. Our Southfield attorneys design repayment plans that are realistic, sustainable, and aligned with Oakland County trustee expectations.

Why Experience Matters in Chapter 13 Cases

Chapter 13 outcomes can vary depending on how a case is structured. Nationally, only 35-40% of Chapter 13 cases successfully reach plan confirmation. At Acclaim Legal Services, we maintain an 80%+ confirmation rate because we design repayment plans that are realistic, sustainable, and aligned with Oakland County trustee expectations from the start.

At Acclaim Legal Services, we bring:

• 80%+ Chapter 13 plan confirmation rate (compared to 35-40% nationally)
• More than 20 years of Michigan bankruptcy experience
• 18,000+ clients helped statewide since 2003
• Deep familiarity with Oakland County trustees and procedures
• 120+ years of combined legal experience
• Consistent track record working with local courts

This experience allows us to anticipate potential challenges early and address them before they become obstacles.

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy in Southfield

A Fresh Start for the Right Situation

For individuals facing overwhelming unsecured debt, Chapter 7 bankruptcy may offer a faster and simpler path to relief.

Chapter 7 can eliminate many types of debt, including credit cards, medical bills, and personal loans. Most Chapter 7 cases are completed within a few months, and many clients are able to keep their home and vehicle through Michigan exemptions, provided they are current on payments.

During your free consultation, we’ll review whether Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 better fits your financial picture and explain the differences clearly.

What to Expect: The Bankruptcy Process in Oakland County

Many people avoid calling an attorney because they don't know what to expect. Here's a straightforward overview of how the bankruptcy process works for Oakland County residents:

Step 1: Free Consultation

We start with a no-pressure conversation about your situation. You'll share details about your income, debts, and goals—and we'll explain whether Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 makes sense for you. You'll leave with clarity and a personalized plan.

Step 2: Preparation & Planning

If you decide to move forward, we'll help you gather the necessary documents (pay stubs, tax returns, list of debts) and prepare your bankruptcy petition. For Chapter 13 cases, we'll design a realistic repayment plan based on your budget and Oakland County trustee expectations.

Step 3: Filing & Automatic Stay

Once we file your case with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Eastern District of Michigan, an "automatic stay" goes into effect immediately. This means:

• Foreclosure proceedings stop
• Wage garnishment ends
• Creditor calls must cease
• Pending lawsuits are paused

Step 4: Meeting of Creditors (341 Meeting)

About 4-6 weeks after filing, you'll attend a brief meeting with the bankruptcy trustee. This usually lasts 10-15 minutes. We'll prepare you thoroughly and attend with you—most clients find it far less stressful than they expected.

Step 5: Completion

• Chapter 7: Most cases are completed in 3-4 months. You'll receive a discharge eliminating eligible debts.
• Chapter 13: Your repayment plan is confirmed by the court, and you'll make monthly payments for 3-5 years. Once completed, remaining eligible debts are discharged.

Throughout the process, our Southfield office handles the paperwork, communicates with trustees and creditors, and keeps you informed at every step.

Ready to get started? Call 248-443-7033 to schedule your free consultation.

Foreclosure & Property Tax Foreclosure Help in Oakland County

Foreclosure is one of the most stressful financial situations a person can face — but it’s important to know that options often exist earlier than people realize.

Mortgage Foreclosure

Chapter 13 bankruptcy can stop a foreclosure immediately through the automatic stay—as long as the case is filed before the foreclosure sale occurs—and allow you to catch up on missed mortgage payments over time, instead of all at once.

Property Tax Foreclosure

Property tax foreclosure follows a different timeline and does not include the same redemption rights as mortgage foreclosure. Chapter 13 can often be used to include delinquent property taxes in a repayment plan, but timing matters.

If foreclosure — mortgage or tax-related — is a concern, speaking with an attorney sooner rather than later can help preserve options.

How Our Southfield Bankruptcy Attorneys Can Help

From our Southfield office, we help Oakland County residents with a wide range of debt-related challenges, including:

• Stopping foreclosure and sheriff’s sales
• Preventing or stopping car repossession
• Ending wage garnishment
• Addressing IRS and tax debt
• Managing judgment liens
• Eliminating credit card and medical debt 
• Creating realistic long-term repayment plans

Every case begins with a conversation. We listen first, then explain what solutions may be available.

Meet the Attorneys Serving Our Southfield Office

William D. Johnson

Managing Attorney | State Bar of Michigan #P54823

With over 30 years of bankruptcy law experience, Attorney Johnson has guided thousands of Michigan families through Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy cases. As founder of Acclaim Legal Services, he established the firm's commitment to combining legal excellence with genuine compassion—a philosophy that continues to guide every Oakland County case handled through the Southfield office.

Before entering law, Bill earned a degree in Finance from Walsh College, giving him a unique perspective that sets him apart. As he often tells clients: "I'm an attorney, but first I was a finance major. Filing for bankruptcy isn't just about the paperwork—it has to make financial sense for your life." This dual expertise in both law and finance allows him to help Oakland County residents see the complete picture: how bankruptcy affects not just their legal obligations, but their home, income, and long-term financial goals.

Attorney Johnson earned his Juris Doctor from Michigan State University College of Law in 1994 and completed post-graduate studies at Wayne State University with a concentration in bankruptcy and finance. He is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan, where Oakland County bankruptcy cases are filed.

His deep familiarity with Oakland County trustees, local court procedures, and the specific financial challenges facing Southfield-area families enables him to design Chapter 13 repayment plans that are realistic, sustainable, and aligned with local expectations from the start. This local insight, combined with statewide experience representing over 18,000 clients since 2003, makes him uniquely qualified to handle both straightforward and complex bankruptcy matters.

Professional Memberships:

• State Bar of Michigan
• Federal Bar Association
• American Bar Association
• American Bankruptcy Institute (ABI)
• National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys (NACBA)
• Founding Member & Past Treasurer, Detroit Debtor Bar Association
• Member, United Way's Michigan Foreclosure Task Force

Published Works:

• Michigan Foreclosure Defense and Modification Strategies (Thomson Reuters Business, 2010)
• Chapter 7 Consumer Bankruptcy Strategies, Inside the Minds series (Aspatore Books, 2011)

Attorney Johnson regularly represents Oakland County clients in Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 cases and oversees all matters handled through the Southfield office. His approach emphasizes careful planning, honest communication, and solutions designed to protect what clients have worked hard to build.

Christopher W. Jones

Partner | State Bar of Michigan #P67955

Attorney Jones is a partner at Acclaim Legal Services and regularly serves Oakland County clients through the Southfield office. With nearly 20 years of bankruptcy law experience, he has earned recognition as one of Michigan's leading consumer bankruptcy attorneys—a distinction backed by both professional accolades and the trust of thousands of clients across metro Detroit.

Board Certified Bankruptcy Specialist

Chris is one of only a small number of Michigan attorneys certified as a Consumer Bankruptcy Specialist by the American Board of Certification—a credential that requires extensive experience, rigorous testing, and demonstrated expertise in bankruptcy law. This certification, combined with his recognition by Super Lawyers (2021, 2022, 2025) and as a Super Lawyers Rising Star (2013–2015), reflects his commitment to excellence in representing individuals and families facing financial hardship.

A proud Michigan State University graduate (Cum Laude), Chris earned his Juris Doctor from Ave Maria School of Law, graduating in the top 10 of his class. He is admitted to practice in both the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan (where Oakland County cases are filed) and the Western District of Michigan.

Local Insight, Statewide Experience

Chris's practice focuses on helping people throughout Oakland County, Wayne County, Macomb County, and Washtenaw County protect their homes, stop creditor harassment, and regain financial stability. His working relationships with trustees and judges throughout Southeast Michigan—including those who oversee Oakland County cases—ensure clients benefit from both local legal insight and personalized strategy.

He handles Chapter 7 bankruptcy (for clients seeking to eliminate unsecured debts), Chapter 13 bankruptcy (restructuring debts and stopping foreclosure), foreclosure defense, debt relief, credit restoration, and bankruptcy litigation. His approach is practical and solutions-focused: bankruptcy is not an ending—it's a beginning.

Thought Leader & Conference Speaker

Chris is a sought-after speaker at leading bankruptcy conferences, including the Steven Rhodes Consumer Bankruptcy Conference, American Bankruptcy Institute (ABI), and Institute for Continuing Legal Education (ICLE). He recently served as one of only two demonstration attorneys at the 7th Annual Shapero Cup Moot Court Competition and Symposium, hosted by the Eastern District of Michigan Bankruptcy Court in 2025.

Professional Memberships & Leadership:

• Consumer Bankruptcy Specialist, American Board of Certification
• State Bar of Michigan
• Federal Bar Association
• American Bar Association
• American Bankruptcy Institute (ABI)
• National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys (NACBA)
• Advisory Member, Eastern District of Michigan Bankruptcy Court's Loss Mitigation and Loan Modification Program Committee
• Advisory Member, Consumer Bankruptcy Association's Steven W. Rhodes Consumer Bankruptcy Conference Planning Committee

Chris takes time in every consultation to explain complex bankruptcy rules in clear, relatable terms so Oakland County clients understand their options and feel confident about their next steps. Clients often describe him as professional, empathetic, and deeply committed to helping them rebuild their financial future with dignity and hope.

Call today at 248-443-7033 for a free consultation with Chris, Bill or one of our other bankruptcy experts.

How much does bankruptcy cost in Southfield?

Bankruptcy costs vary by case complexity. Chapter 7 fees typically include attorney fees plus a $338 filing fee. Chapter 13 includes attorney fees and a $313 filing fee, with attorney fees often paid through your repayment plan. We offer flexible payment plans and free consultations to discuss your specific situation. Call our Southfield office at 248-443-7033 for transparent pricing.

Can bankruptcy stop foreclosure in Southfield?

For most Southfield homeowners, the answer is no. Michigan law provides homestead exemptions that protect equity in your primary residence, and many clients are able to keep their homes through these protections. Chapter 13 specifically helps you keep your home by allowing you to catch up on missed mortgage payments over time. Our 80%+ Chapter 13 confirmation rate means we know how to structure cases that protect Oakland County families' homes. During your free consultation, we'll review your specific situation and explain exactly how exemptions apply to you. 

Do I need to visit your Southfield office?

Yes, we have a physical office in Southfield at 26400 Lahser Rd, #230. We offer convenient hours including evening appointments Monday through Thursday until 7 PM and Saturday morning hours from 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM. We can also accommodate phone consultations or you can visit any of our other Michigan office locations.

Will I lose my house if I file bankruptcy in Southfield?

For most Southfield homeowners, the answer is no.  Chapter 13 specifically helps you keep your home by allowing you to catch up on missed mortgage payments over time. Our 80%+ Chapter 13 confirmation rate means we know how to structure cases that protect Oakland County families' homes.

Which bankruptcy court handles Southfield cases?

Southfield bankruptcy cases are filed in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Eastern District of Michigan. Our Southfield office is located in Oakland County, and our attorneys work regularly with the Detroit Division bankruptcy trustees. Attorney William Johnson has extensive experience in this jurisdiction.

What is the difference between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13?

Chapter 7 is a liquidation bankruptcy that eliminates most unsecured debts in 4-6 months. Chapter 13 is a 3-5 year repayment plan that allows you to catch up on mortgage arrears and keep your assets. Acclaim Legal Services achieves a 96% Chapter 7 discharge rate and 80%+ Chapter 13 confirmation rate. During your free consultation, we'll help determine which option is best for your situation.

How quickly can bankruptcy stop wage garnishment?

Filing bankruptcy creates an automatic stay that stops wage garnishment immediately, often within 24-48 hours of filing. Our Southfield office can schedule same-day or next-day consultations for urgent garnishment cases. Call 248-443-7033 now if you're facing wage garnishment. 

What’s your success rate with Chapter 13 cases?

At Acclaim Legal Services, 80%+ of our Chapter 13 cases reach successful plan confirmation, compared to the national average of 35-40%. This difference reflects our focus on realistic budgeting, thorough preparation, and familiarity with Oakland County trustee expectations. During your consultation, we'll explain what factors contribute to successful outcomes and how those apply to your situation.

Serving Oakland County from Our Southfield Office

Our Southfield location is the primary office for Oakland County bankruptcy cases, and this page serves as our main resource for Southfield-area clients seeking debt relief.

Oakland County Communities We Serve: Auburn Hills • Berkley • Birmingham • Bloomfield Hills • Clarkston • Farmington • Farmington Hills • Ferndale • Lake Orion • Lathrup Village • Madison Heights • Novi • Oak Park • Pontiac • Rochester • Rochester Hills • Royal Oak • Southfield • Troy • Waterford • West Bloomfield • White Lake

Wayne County Communities We Serve: Canton • Garden City • Livonia • Northville • Plymouth • Westland

And Throughout Michigan: Ann Arbor • Dearborn • Detroit • Flint • Lansing • Warren

Important Resources for Southfield & Oakland County Bankruptcy Filers

The following resources may be helpful if you are considering bankruptcy or navigating financial challenges in Oakland County. While these organizations are independent of our firm, they provide important information and services that many clients find useful.

U.S. Bankruptcy Court – Eastern District of Michigan

(Court handling bankruptcy cases for Southfield and Oakland County residents)

DETROIT BANKRUPTCY COURT:
U.S. Bankruptcy Court
211 West Fort Street
Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 234-0065

Lakeshore Legal Aid

(Legal assistance for low-income Oakland County residents)

Serving Oakland County and surrounding areas
Phone: (888) 783-8190
Website: https://lakeshorelegalaid.org/

National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC)

(Approved provider of required pre-bankruptcy credit counseling)

Website: https://www.nfcc.org/

Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA)

(Post-bankruptcy homeownership and housing assistance programs)

Website: https://www.michigan.gov/mshda

Oakland County Treasurer

(Property tax information and tax foreclosure resources)

Website: https://www.oakgov.com/treasurer

These resources are provided for general information. Our attorneys can help explain how court procedures and agency requirements may apply to your specific situation.

Speak With a Southfield Bankruptcy Attorney Today

If you're ready to talk through your options, we're here to help. You can call us at 248-443-7033 or fill out the form below for a free, confidential consultation.

Take the first step toward peace of mind.

We’ll connect you with a debt relief attorney for a free, no-pressure consultation.