Debt Resolution in Grand Rapids, MI

Compassionate Chapter 13, Foreclosure, and Debt Relief Help

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by bills, worried about losing your car, or afraid your home could be next, you’re not alone — and you don’t have to face this by yourself.

At Acclaim Legal Services, we help individuals and families in Grand Rapids and throughout Kent County find steady, realistic solutions to serious financial stress. Many of our clients reach out when things feel urgent — collection calls won’t stop, payments are behind, or foreclosure or repossession feels close.

A quick conversation with an experienced bankruptcy attorney can often bring clarity, relief, and a clear path forward. If you’re ready to protect what matters most and regain control of your finances, help is just a phone call away. 

SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION

Here’s What Sets Us Apart

• Over 80% Chapter 13 confirmation rate (national average: 35-40%)
• 96% Discharge rate for Chapter 7 filings
• Over 18,000 Michigan clients successfully served since 2003
• A+ BBB rating maintained for over 20 years
• Same-day appointments available
• Offices throughout Michigan for your convenience
• Firm has earned over 750+ Five-Star Google reviews

Meet Your Grand Rapids Bankruptcy Attorney

Attorney Stephen J. Beard — Your Partner in Financial Recovery

Stephen J. Beard, Managing Attorney
State Bar of Michigan #P76575
Serving Grand Rapids, Lansing, Flint & West Michigan

Attorney Stephen Beard has dedicated over a decade to helping Michigan families navigate the most stressful moments of their financial lives. As Managing Attorney for Acclaim Legal Services’ Lansing and Flint offices, Stephen regularly serves Grand Rapids and West Michigan clients facing foreclosure, wage garnishments, overwhelming debt, and the difficult decision of whether bankruptcy is right for them.

What sets Stephen apart is his unique blend of legal precision and genuine compassion. Clients consistently describe him as both approachable and meticulous—someone who takes the time to listen, explains every option in clear terms, and follows through until the matter is resolved.

Why Grand Rapids Clients Trust Attorney Beard

Deep Michigan Bankruptcy Experience

With a Juris Doctor from Loyola University Chicago School of Law (Dean’s List, 2012) and over 10 years of exclusive bankruptcy practice, Stephen has guided countless Michigan residents through Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcies. He’s admitted to practice in both the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan and the Western District of Michigan—the very court that handles Grand Rapids bankruptcy cases.

Proven Results Through Chapter 13

Stephen’s expertise in Chapter 13 bankruptcy has helped hundreds of families save their homes from foreclosure. He understands how to structure repayment plans that satisfy the Western District bankruptcy court while remaining realistic for your budget. His methodical approach contributes directly to Acclaim’s over 80% Chapter 13 confirmation rate—more than double the national average.

Professional Recognition

• Member, American Bankruptcy Institute (ABI)
• Member, National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys (NACBA)
• Member, Federal Bar Association
• Member, State Bar of Michigan

A Personal Approach to Bankruptcy Law

"Most of my clients come to me feeling overwhelmed or defeated," Stephen explains. "I make sure they understand that bankruptcy isn't about failure—it's about taking control of an unmanageable situation and moving forward with dignity. Whether you're facing foreclosure in Grand Rapids or dealing with unexpected medical bills, I'm here to help you protect what matters most while creating a sustainable path forward."

Stephen’s practice philosophy is simple: listen first, advise second. He ensures every client leaves with a clear plan, realistic expectations, and the relief that comes from knowing someone is advocating for them.

What Western Michigan Clients Say

“Beyond helpful” — Jannise

“The superb service rendered by S. Beard was beyond helpful. I appreciate the time and concern shown, as well as his availability for follow-up. Hands down, Acclaim Legal Services goes beyond the call of duty.”

“Made everything run smoothly” — Michele

“Stephen was great — he went over the process with me and what I should expect. My hearing ran smoothly and was complete in less than 10 minutes. They reduced my stress level significantly. Thank you so much!”

“Kind and helpful” — Destiny

“Stephen Beard has been so kind and helpful in starting the process of saving our vehicles and fixing our finances. I have full confidence in the following steps. They are very affordable and have had so much empathy for our situation.”

Comprehensive Bankruptcy Services for West Michigan

Attorney Beard helps Grand Rapids area clients with:

• Chapter 13 Bankruptcy – Restructure debts into manageable payment plans while saving your home or vehicle
• Chapter 7 Bankruptcy – Eliminate unsecured debts like credit cards and medical bills for a fresh start
• Foreclosure Prevention – Stop home foreclosure and force lenders into structured repayment plans
• Wage Garnishment Relief – End creditor garnishments and protect your paycheck
• Credit Restoration Strategies – Guidance on rebuilding credit after bankruptcy
• View Attorney Beard’s Complete Profile 

Take the First Step Toward Relief

Schedule a Free, Confidential Consultation

Consider this a fact-finding mission—nothing more. It simply gives you the chance to understand your options and decide what makes sense for your situation.

During your free consultation, we’ll talk through what’s happening financially, answer your questions, and explain potential next steps in clear, straightforward language.

Call today: 866-261-8282 (click to call)
Schedule online: Free Consultation 
Emergency after-hours: 248-840-3368

How a Bankruptcy Attorney in Grand Rapids Can Help

When debt starts piling up, it can feel like everything is happening at once — missed payments, nonstop collection calls, wage garnishments, or the fear of foreclosure or repossession. Knowing where to turn isn’t always obvious.

We help you catch your breath, see the full picture, and make informed decisions about your future.

At Acclaim Legal Services, we focus on Chapter 13 and Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Grand Rapids and across Michigan, offering guidance tailored to your income, goals, and long-term needs.

Depending on Your Situation, Bankruptcy May Help You:

• Stop foreclosure in Grand Rapids and throughout Kent County
• Prevent or stop car repossession
  
• Put an end to wage garnishments
• Stop creditor harassment and collection calls
• Catch up on missed mortgage or vehicle payments
• Create a manageable repayment plan
• Begin rebuilding your credit over time

Every person who walks through our door has a different story. We take the time to hear yours before suggesting any path forward.

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Attorney in Grand Rapids

A Structured Path to Protect Your Home and Car

For many people facing foreclosure or repossession, Chapter 13 bankruptcy offers a powerful way to regain stability while keeping important assets.

Chapter 13 allows you to reorganize your debts into a court-approved repayment plan, typically lasting three to five years. During that time, foreclosure and repossession efforts must stop, giving you breathing room to catch up.

How Chapter 13 Works in Grand Rapids:

The moment we file your Chapter 13 bankruptcy in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Western District of Michigan, an automatic stay goes into effect. This legal protection immediately stops foreclosure proceedings, giving you time to catch up on mortgage arrears through your repayment plan.

Our Chapter 13 Success Rate

Our over 80% confirmation rate means when we help you file Chapter 13 bankruptcy, there’s better than an 80% probability the court will approve your plan. Compare this to the national average of 35-40%, and you’ll understand why Grand Rapids residents trust Acclaim Legal Services for their bankruptcy needs.

Why Our Confirmation Rate Is More Than Double the National Average

The leading cause of Chapter 13 dismissals isn't court rejection—it's clients who can't maintain their plan payments before the confirmation hearing. When payments stop in those critical first months, the case never gets confirmed at all.

This is precisely why our 80%+ confirmation rate matters. We don't just file paperwork and hope for the best. We carefully analyze your actual income and necessary expenses to create a monthly payment you can realistically maintain from day one. Our plans get confirmed because they're built on your real-world budget—not overoptimistic projections. That's the difference Attorney Stephen Beard's careful planning and our firm's 20+ years of exclusive bankruptcy focus make.

Our Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Attorneys in Grand Rapids Can Help You:

• Stop foreclosure proceedings immediately
• Halt repossession efforts on your vehicle
• Catch up on missed mortgage payments over time
• Consolidate debts into one structured monthly payment
• Protect your home, vehicle, and other assets
• Work toward long-term financial stability

We guide you through every stage of the process, explain what to expect, and remain dedicated to answer questions as your case moves forward.

What Chapter 13 Can Do for You:

Stop Foreclosure Immediately The automatic stay is one of bankruptcy’s most powerful protections. It stops foreclosure sales, giving you the opportunity to save your Grand Rapids home through a manageable repayment plan.

Keep Your Home and Car Unlike Chapter 7, which may require you to surrender non-exempt assets, Chapter 13 lets you keep your property while you catch up on payments. This is especially important for Grand Rapids homeowners who have built equity in their homes or need their vehicles for work.

Eliminate Unsecured Debt Credit card debt, medical bills, personal loans, and other unsecured debts can be significantly reduced or eliminated through your Chapter 13 plan. Many of our Grand Rapids clients discharge 60-80% of their unsecured debt.

Protect Co-Signers If family or friends co-signed loans for you, Chapter 13’s co-debtor stay protects them from collection actions during your bankruptcy—protection not available in Chapter 7.

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Attorney in Grand Rapids

A Fresh Financial Reset for the Right Situation

If debt has become overwhelming and repayment isn’t realistic, Chapter 7 bankruptcy may offer the clean slate you need.

Chapter 7 can eliminate many unsecured debts, including credit cards, medical bills, and personal loans. For eligible individuals, it provides relatively quick relief — typically 3-4 months from filing to discharge — and a chance to move forward without constant financial pressure.

Who Qualifies for Chapter 7?

Michigan residents must pass the means test, which compares your household income to the state median. Our Grand Rapids bankruptcy attorneys will review your income, assets, and goals to determine whether Chapter 7 is appropriate and explain the process clearly so you can make an informed decision.

What Debts Can Be Eliminated?

• Credit card debt
• Medical bills
• Personal loans
• Past-due utility bills
• Most lawsuit judgments

What Debts Cannot Be Discharged?

• Recent taxes (with some exceptions)
• Student loans (except in cases of undue hardship)
• Child support and alimony
• Debts from fraud or willful injury

Flexible Payment Options

We understand that when you're struggling financially, attorney fees can be a concern. We offer payment plans, allowing you to pay over time before your case is filed.

During your free consultation, we'll discuss payment arrangements that work with your budget.

Why Grand Rapids Residents Trust Acclaim Legal Services

Choosing a bankruptcy attorney is an important decision. At Acclaim Legal Services, we believe legal guidance should feel supportive, transparent, and grounded in real experience.

20+ Years of Exclusive Bankruptcy Focus

Since 2003, we’ve done nothing but bankruptcy and debt resolution. This singular focus means:

Deep Court Relationships Our attorneys know the Western District of Michigan bankruptcy court, its trustees, and its procedures intimately. We know what the court expects, how trustees evaluate cases, and how to position your case for success.

Refined Processes After helping over 18,000 Michigan clients, we’ve developed systematic approaches that maximize success rates while minimizing stress for you. We know what works.

Continuous Legal Education Bankruptcy law evolves constantly. Our team stays current with every change in Michigan and federal bankruptcy law, ensuring you benefit from the latest legal strategies.

Personalized Service for Every Client

Every client at Acclaim Legal Services receives individual attention and personalized guidance.  When you choose us as your Grand Rapids bankruptcy attorney, you receive:

• Dedicated Attorney-Paralegal Team  From your first consultation through final discharge, you'll work with the same attorney and paralegal team. No passing your case between attorneys, no explaining your situation repeatedly—Attorney Beard knows your story and your goals, and remains personally invested in your success.
• Direct Attorney Access Have questions? Need to discuss a concern? You can reach to Stephen attorney directly. He returns calls promptly and keep you informed throughout the process. 
• Customized Strategy Every financial situation is unique. Stephen doesn't use cookie-cutter approaches or template solutions. He carefully analyzes your income, expenses, and goals to craft a Chapter 13 plan designed specifically for your circumstances—one the court will approve and you can realistically maintain.

A+ BBB Rating Since 2003

Our A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau isn’t just a badge—it’s evidence of consistent client satisfaction and ethical business practices maintained over two decades. We’ve earned the trust of thousands of Michigan families, and we’ll work just as hard to earn yours.

Over 750 Five-Star Google Reviews

Our clients’ experiences speak volumes. With over 750 five-star Google reviews across all our Michigan locations, we’ve built a reputation for compassionate, effective bankruptcy representation.

Convenient Grand Rapids Area Service

Flexible Appointment Scheduling   We serve Grand Rapids area clients primarily through virtual consultations and our Lansing office, approximately one hour from Grand Rapids. Most clients find virtual meetings via phone or video conference to be the most convenient option—no travel required, and you can meet with Attorney Stephen Beard from the comfort of your home or office.  For your convenience we offer evening, weekend and same day appointments.

For clients who prefer in-person meetings, our Lansing office provides a comfortable, professional setting. We regularly serve clients throughout Kent, Ottawa, Allegan, Barry, Ionia, Montcalm, Muskegon, and Newaygo counties.

How the Bankruptcy Process Works in Grand Rapids

Step 1: Free Consultation

Your journey to financial freedom begins with a no-obligation, no-pressure consultation. During this meeting, your Grand Rapids bankruptcy attorney will:

• Review your complete financial situation
• Explain your options under Michigan and federal bankruptcy law
• Answer all your questions honestly and completely
• Recommend the best path forward for your specific circumstances
• Discuss fees and payment options

There’s no charge for this consultation, and there is no pressure to make a quick decision.  Our goal is to empower you with the information and facts to make the best decision possible for you and your family.

Step 2: Document Preparation

If you decide to move forward, we’ll guide you through gathering the necessary documents:

• Six months of pay stubs or income documentation
• Two years of tax returns
• List of all debts with creditor information
• List of all assets (home, vehicles, retirement accounts, etc.)
• Recent bank statements
• Proof of required credit counseling (we’ll help you complete this)

Don’t worry if this seems overwhelming. We’ve helped thousands of clients through this process, and we’ll provide clear checklists and guidance at every step.  We'll also pull a tri-merge credit report for you to ensure every creditor is properly documented and notified—nothing gets missed.

Step 3: Petition Filing

Once we’ve prepared your bankruptcy petition, we file it electronically with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Western District of Michigan (Grand Rapids Division). The moment we file:

The Automatic Stay Takes Effect

This powerful federal protection immediately stops:

• Foreclosure proceedings
• Wage garnishments 
• Creditor calls and collection letters
• Repossession actions
• Utility disconnections
• Lawsuits and judgments. 

We'll also immediately notify all creditors listed in your petition of the automatic stay, ensuring collection activity stops as quickly as possible.

Step 4: 341 Meeting of Creditors (Virtual)

Approximately 30-40 days after filing, you'll attend the 341 meeting via secure video conference using Zoom. Despite its formal name, this is typically a brief, straightforward meeting where:

• You'll meet with the bankruptcy trustee (not a judge) via video
• The trustee will ask routine questions about your petition
• Your attorney will be on the video call with you the entire time
• Most meetings last 5-10 minutes

Convenient Virtual Format:
You can join from home, your office, or our Lansing location—no need to drive to the Grand Rapids courthouse. We'll send you the Zoom link and walk you through the technology beforehand so you feel completely prepared.

We prepare you thoroughly beforehand so you know exactly what to expect. Most Grand Rapids clients tell us the meeting was simpler and faster than they anticipated.

Step 5: Chapter 13 Plan Confirmation or Chapter 7 Discharge

For Chapter 13 Cases: You'll begin making monthly payments to the trustee within 30 days of filing—even before your plan is confirmed. The court will review your proposed repayment plan, and if approved (which happens over 80% of the time with our representation), you'll continue making those monthly payments for 3-5 years. This is why we structure payment amounts you can realistically maintain from day one—sustainable payments lead to confirmed plans.

For Chapter 7 Cases: If no objections are filed, you’ll receive your discharge approximately 60-90 days after the 341 meeting. Most unsecured debts are permanently eliminated.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bankruptcy in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Q: Can filing bankruptcy stop foreclosure in Grand Rapids?

A: Yes. Filing a Chapter 13 bankruptcy triggers an automatic stay, which immediately stops foreclosure proceedings. Even if a foreclosure sale is scheduled for next week or even later that same day, filing a Chapter bankruptcy will stop it.

Chapter 13 is particularly powerful for foreclosure because it's the only legal tool that forces your lender to accept a court-approved repayment plan—no lender permission required. This gives you 3-5 years of legal protection to catch up on missed mortgage payments while keeping your home.

The automatic stay goes into effect the moment we file your case with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Western District of Michigan.

Q: Can bankruptcy stop car repossession in Michigan?

A: In many cases, yes. Bankruptcy can stop repossession efforts and, in Chapter 13 cases, allow you to repay missed payments through a structured plan.

If your car has already been repossessed but hasn’t been sold yet, filing bankruptcy may even allow you to get it back. Time is critical in repossession situations, so contact us immediately if you’re facing this issue.

Q: Will filing bankruptcy stop collection calls?

A: Yes. Once your bankruptcy case is filed, creditors must stop contacting you directly. This includes phone calls, letters, and wage garnishments.

If a creditor contacts you after your bankruptcy is filed, they’re violating federal law and could face sanctions. Simply refer them to your attorney, and we’ll handle it.

Q: How long does Chapter 13 bankruptcy last?

A: Chapter 13 repayment plans typically last three to five years, depending on your income and financial circumstances.

The length of your plan depends on your income relative to Michigan’s median income levels. Our attorneys will explain exactly how long your plan would last during your consultation.

Q: Will bankruptcy ruin my credit forever?

A: No. While bankruptcy does impact credit, it also gives many people the chance to rebuild. Many clients see improvement over time as debts are resolved and payments stabilize.

Bankruptcy appears on your credit report for 7-10 years, but many of our Grand Rapids clients see credit score improvements within 12-18 months after filing because:

• High debt balances are eliminated
• Multiple negative items are replaced with one bankruptcy notation – no more late reports to the credit agencies!
• You can begin rebuilding credit immediately
• You have no more delinquent accounts

We’ve had clients purchase homes within 2-3 years after bankruptcy and finance vehicles within 6-12 months.

Q: Do I qualify for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy?

A: Eligibility depends on income, assets, and financial goals. During your free consultation, we’ll review your situation and explain which options may be available to you.

Michigan residents must pass the means test for Chapter 7, which compares your household income to the state median. We also carefully look at your assets, like your home, to ensure we can keep it protected based on available exemptions under a Chapter 7.  If you don’t qualify for Chapter 7, Chapter 13 may be a better option—and often provides additional benefits like saving your home from foreclosure.

Q: How soon should I talk to a bankruptcy attorney?

A: The sooner you reach out, the more options you may have — especially if foreclosure, repossession, or garnishment is pending. Early guidance can make a meaningful difference.

If you’re facing an immediate crisis like a foreclosure sale date or wage garnishment, don’t wait. Call our 24/7 emergency line at 248-840-3368 to speak with an attorney right away.

Q: Will I lose my house in bankruptcy?

A: Chapter 13: No, as long as the Chapter 13 is filed prior to the foreclosure sale. Chapter 13 is specifically designed to help you keep your home while catching up on missed mortgage payments. As long as you maintain your regular mortgage payments and payments under your Chapter 13 plan, your home is protected.

Chapter 7: It depends on your home equity and available exemptions.  We will research this before advising you on a course of action.  If filing a Chapter 7 would put your home ownership at risk, we will suggest you file a Chapter 13 instead.

Your attorney will evaluate your specific situation thoroughly and advise you honestly about any risks.

Q: Will bankruptcy affect my job?

A: No. Federal law prohibits employers from discriminating against employees because they filed bankruptcy. Your employer will not be notified of your bankruptcy filing unless:

• You owe your employer money
• Your wages are being garnished (the bankruptcy stops this)
• You work in a position requiring a security clearance (and even then, bankruptcy itself rarely causes security clearance problems)

Thousands of Grand Rapids professionals have filed bankruptcy without any employment consequences.

Q: Does my spouse have to file too?

A: Not necessarily. You can file bankruptcy individually or jointly with your spouse.  However, there are strategic considerations:

When Separate Filing Makes Sense:

• One spouse has significant separate debt
• You want to preserve one spouse’s credit
• One spouse recently filed bankruptcy

When Joint Filing Makes Sense:

• Most debts are joint obligations
• You want to protect both spouses from creditors
• Joint filing can be more cost-effective

Your Grand Rapids bankruptcy attorney will evaluate your situation and recommend the approach that best protects your family’s interests.

Q: How much does bankruptcy cost?

A: Bankruptcy costs vary based on your specific situation. We offer transparent pricing and flexible payment options to make relief accessible.

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy:

• Court filing fee: $338 (set by federal bankruptcy court)
• Attorney fees vary based on case complexity
• Fees can be paid over time before the case is filed
• Special situations: If you're experiencing wage garnishment, we may be able to recover garnished funds to help offset attorney fees

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy:

• Court filing fee: $313 (set by federal bankruptcy court)
• Attorney fees are typically paid through your court-approved repayment plan over 3-5 years. In most cases, these fees are built into your monthly plan payment and replace funds that would have otherwise gone to unsecured creditors, making bankruptcy more affordable.

During your free consultation, we'll provide exact pricing for your situation and discuss payment options that work with your budget.

Areas We Serve Throughout West Michigan

While we maintain offices throughout Michigan, we serve Grand Rapids area clients from Kent County and surrounding communities including:

Kent County Communities

Grand Rapids, Wyoming, Kentwood, East Grand Rapids, Walker, Grandville, Rockford, Cedar Springs, Lowell, Byron Center, Caledonia, Sparta

Ottawa County

Holland, Grand Haven, Zeeland, Hudsonville, Coopersville, Jenison

Allegan County

Allegan, Wayland, Otsego, Plainwell

Barry County

Hastings, Middleville

Ionia County

Ionia, Belding, Saranac

Montcalm County

Greenville, Stanton, Carson City

Muskegon County

Muskegon, Norton Shores, Muskegon Heights, North Muskegon

Newaygo County

Newaygo, Fremont, White Cloud

Speak with a Grand Rapids Bankruptcy Attorney Today

You didn’t plan to be in this financial situation. Job loss, medical emergencies, divorce, business failure—life happens to good people. Bankruptcy isn’t about failure; it’s about taking control and getting the fresh start you deserve.

Our Grand Rapids bankruptcy attorneys have helped thousands of Michigan families just like yours. We understand the stress you’re feeling, the sleepless nights, the constant anxiety. We’re here to help you end that cycle.

You don’t need to have everything figured out. We’ll help you move forward, one step at a time.

Take the first step toward peace of mind.

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

Flexible Meeting Options for Grand Rapids Clients

While we don't currently have a physical Grand Rapids office, Attorney Stephen Beard regularly serves West Michigan clients through:

In-Person Consultations

• Lansing Office: 1760 Abbey Road, Suite 209, East Lansing, MI 48823 (65 miles from Grand Rapids)
• Same-day appointments available

Virtual Consultations

• Phone consultations
• Video conferencing (Zoom)
• Secure document sharing
• No need to travel—meet from home or work

Many of our Grand Rapids clients prefer virtual consultations for the initial meeting, then handle court appearances and document signing in person as needed.

Your fresh start is just a phone call away. Help is here when you’re ready.

Important Resources for Grand Rapids Bankruptcy Filers

U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Western District of Michigan

Grand Rapids Division
Gerald R. Ford Federal Building
110 Michigan Street NW
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Website: https://www.miwb.uscourts.gov/

Legal Aid of Western Michigan

(For low-income residents seeking legal assistance)
89 Ionia Avenue NW, Suite 400
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Phone: (616) 774-0672
Website: https://lawestmi.org/

National Foundation for Credit Counseling

(Required pre-bankruptcy credit counseling)
Website: https://www.nfcc.org/

Michigan State Housing Development Authority

(Post-bankruptcy homebuyer programs)
Website: https://www.michigan.gov/mshda