A Helping Hand For Michigan Families

CHRISTOPHER W. JONES

Partner & Managing Attorney — Michigan Bankruptcy Law
248.443.7033 ext. 224 |  Chris@AcclaimLegalServices.com

About Chris

Christopher W. Jones is more than an accomplished bankruptcy attorney — he’s a trusted guide for Michigan residents facing financial crossroads. With nearly two decades of legal experience, Chris has built a reputation for delivering not just exceptional legal representation, but also clear, compassionate guidance for individuals and families facing financial hardship. As a Consumer Bankruptcy Specialist certified by the American Board of Certification — a distinction earned by only a small number of attorneys nationwide — Chris combines deep legal knowledge with a compassionate, solutions-focused approach.

A proud Michigan State University graduate (Cum Laude), Chris went on to earn his Juris Doctor from Ave Maria School of Law, graduating in the top 10 of his class. Throughout his career, he has guided thousands of Michigan residents through Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcies, foreclosure defense, and complex debt relief strategies.

Recognition, Credentials & Leadership in Bankruptcy Law

• Consumer Bankruptcy Specialist — American Board of Certification 
• Super Lawyers Rising Star (2013–2015)
• Super Lawyers (2021, 2022 & 2025)
• Beta Gamma Sigma National Honor Society member
• Top 10 graduate, Ave Maria School of Law
• Editorial Board Member – Ave Maria Law Review
• Advisory Member of the Eastern District of Michigan Bankruptcy Court’s Loss Mitigation and Loan Modification Program Committee;
• Advisory Member for the Consumer Bankruptcy Association’s Steven W. Rhodes Consumer Bankruptcy Conference Planning Committee
• Demonstration Argument Presenter (1 of 2 Attorneys) at the Seventh Annual (2025) Shapero Cup Moot Court Competition and Symposium (Hosted by the Eastern District of Michigan Bankruptcy Court).

Professional Memberships & Admissions

• State Bar of Michigan
• Federal Bar Association
• Admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan
• Admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Michigan
• American Bar Association
• American Bankruptcy Institute (ABI)
• National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys (NACBA)
• Institute for Continuing Legal Education (ICLE)

Michigan Bankruptcy Services & Debt Relief Strategies

Chris works with clients throughout Metro Detroit and Southeast Michigan, focusing on helping people protect their homes, stop creditor harassment, and regain financial stability.

Client-Focused Approach to Bankruptcy & Debt Resolution

• Chapter 7 Bankruptcy — Discharge unsecured debts and get a fresh start.
• Chapter 13 Bankruptcy — Restructure debts, stop foreclosure, and catch up on mortgage arrears.
• Foreclosure Prevention & Mortgage Arrears — Negotiate repayment terms and keep families in their homes.
• Debt Relief & Credit Restoration — Repair credit and rebuild financial health post-bankruptcy.
• Bankruptcy Litigation — Represent clients in contested bankruptcy matters.

Serving Clients Across Metro Detroit & Southeast Michigan

• Southfield & Oakland County — Assisting residents facing foreclosure or creditor lawsuits.
• Warren & Macomb County — Helping individuals and small businesses manage debt and avoid asset loss.
• Detroit & Wayne County — Representing clients in both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy cases.
• Ann Arbor & Washtenaw County — Providing solutions for mortgage arrears and tax debt challenges.

By working closely with trustees and judges in these areas, Chris ensures that each client benefits from both local legal insight and personalized strategy.

Speaking Engagements & Publications

Chris is a sought-after speaker at leading bankruptcy conferences, including:

• Steven Rhodes Consumer Bankruptcy Conference
• American Bankruptcy Institute (ABI)
• Institute for Continuing Legal Education (ICLE)
• Demonstrating attorney in the 7^th Annual Shapero Cup Moot Court Competition and Symposium 

He has presented on topics such as:

• Mortgage forbearance agreements post-pandemic
• Chapter 13 trustee conduit mortgage payments
• Advising debtors on income tax debt in bankruptcy
• Retirement planning within a bankruptcy context

Client Focus & Local Commitment

Chris understands that filing bankruptcy is one of the most difficult and emotional financial decisions a person can face. His philosophy is simple: bankruptcy is not an ending — it’s a beginning.

He takes the time in every consultation to explain the process in clear, relatable terms so clients understand their options and feel confident about their next steps. Clients often share how much they value his ability to turn complex legal rules into practical guidance they can follow with ease.

As Managing Attorney, Chris not only represents clients in their cases but also mentors younger attorneys at Acclaim. He sees bankruptcy law as more than just legal paperwork — it’s a lifeline for individuals and families to regain stability, protect their assets, and rebuild their futures. His dedication to both his clients and his community drives his work every day.

Chris’s Practical Advice for Getting Started:

Before your initial consultation, Chris recommends:

• Gathering your financial paperwork — recent pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements, and a list of debts.
• Avoiding major financial moves — like transferring assets to friends or family — before you’ve received legal guidance.
• Being open and honest — full transparency helps him create the most effective plan for your situation.

His combination of empathy, local insight, and practical steps ensures that clients leave not only with a legal strategy but with a renewed sense of hope and direction.

In Their Own Words:  Client Stories

Here’s what clients across Michigan have said about working with Chris:

"Fixed the mess my first attorney created" — Nadia Bazzi

“Acclaim Legal Services came in and fixed the mess my first attorney created. I WISH I would have found this company first. My attorney, Chris, went out of his way — above and beyond what we thought he would have to do — to make sure everything was handled properly. They are professional, punctual, and responsible attorneys who know what they're doing. They have great communication skills and listen to their clients. I highly recommend.”

"Professional, considerate & helpful" — Judy R.

“Christopher Jones & Cindy Millns were always very professional, considerate & helpful to me. They always returned phone calls and e-mails quickly and answered all of my questions or concerns with great knowledge, patience & kindness. I would highly recommend them to my family and friends! Their knowledge and customer service gets an A+++++ from me!”

"Exceptional Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Services" — Shuaib Miazi

“I recently had the privilege of working with Acclaim Legal Services, specifically with Cindy Millns, Brian Rodriguez, and Chris Jones, to navigate the intricate world of Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Their expertise and dedication left an indelible mark on my experience.
From the outset, Cindy exhibited a deep understanding of the Chapter 13 process. Chris’s financial acumen was invaluable — he meticulously examined my financial situation, offered insightful advice, and developed a personalized repayment plan that worked best for me. His dedication to ensuring my financial stability was evident in every interaction.
Together, Cindy, Brian, and Chris formed an exceptional team that guided me with professionalism and empathy. I wholeheartedly recommend them.”

"Debt free for the first time in 10 years" — Alli Reynolds

“I can’t say enough good things about Chris Jones. He was patient with me and understanding of my situation. He was extremely personable and easy to talk to, which made an uncomfortable situation a lot easier. He advocated for me with my creditors and that resulted in me not having to file bankruptcy. I’m debt free for the first time in 10 years because of him.”

"From terrified to hopeful" — Rhonda Macko

“As most facing bankruptcy, I was scared, humiliated, stressed out, and fed up with relentless collection calls, lawsuits, and garnishment threats. I was a single mother of four working full-time and run ragged.
Then came a garnishment letter — 25% of my wages were going to be taken. Chris took me from terrified and stressed out to hopeful and relieved. He was able to get my garnishment stopped and my life back on track. I strongly recommend anyone thinking of bankruptcy to call Christopher Jones at Acclaim Legal Services.”

Frequently Asked Questions About Working with Attorney Chris Jones

Q: What is a Consumer Bankruptcy Specialist, and why does it matter?

A: A Consumer Bankruptcy Specialist is an attorney who has earned board certification from the American Board of Certification — a rigorous credential held by only a small percentage of bankruptcy attorneys nationwide. To earn this distinction, attorneys must demonstrate extensive experience handling consumer bankruptcy cases, pass a comprehensive written examination, and meet strict ethical standards. Chris Jones is one of the few Michigan attorneys with this elite certification, which means you're working with an attorney whose expertise has been independently verified by a respected third-party organization.

Q: How do I choose the right bankruptcy attorney in Michigan?

A: Look for an attorney with specific bankruptcy credentials and experience. Key factors include: board certification in bankruptcy law, admission to practice in federal bankruptcy courts (both Eastern and Western Districts in Michigan), membership in professional organizations like the American Bankruptcy Institute and NACBA, recognition by peers (such as Super Lawyers), and a track record of speaking at bankruptcy conferences. Chris meets all these criteria and brings nearly two decades of focused bankruptcy experience to every case.

Q: What should I bring to my first consultation with Chris Jones?

A: Chris recommends gathering your recent pay stubs (last 2-3 months), tax returns from the past two years, bank statements, a list of all debts with creditor names and amounts owed, information about assets (home, vehicles, retirement accounts), and any lawsuit documents or foreclosure notices you've received. Don't worry if you don't have everything — Chris can work with what you have and guide you on gathering the rest. The most important thing is to be open and honest about your complete financial situation.

Q: How long does the bankruptcy process take in Michigan?

A: Chapter 7 bankruptcy typically takes 3-4 months from filing to discharge. Chapter 13 bankruptcy involves a 3-5 year repayment plan, but you get immediate protection from creditors the moment your case is filed. The timeline can vary based on the complexity of your case and local court schedules. Chris has extensive experience in Michigan's Eastern and Western Districts and knows how to navigate each court's specific procedures efficiently.

Q: What happens at the 341 Meeting of Creditors?

A: The 341 Meeting (named after the bankruptcy code section) is a brief meeting, usually 10-15 minutes, where a bankruptcy trustee asks you questions about your financial situation under oath. It's not held in a courtroom, and creditors rarely attend. Chris will thoroughly prepare you for this meeting, review every question you might be asked, and attend the meeting with you to ensure everything goes smoothly. Most clients find it far less intimidating than they expected.

Q: Can I keep my house and car if I file bankruptcy?

A: In most cases, yes. Michigan has generous bankruptcy exemptions that protect equity in your home (homestead exemption) and vehicles. In Chapter 7, if you're current on payments and the equity is within exemption limits, you can typically keep both. In Chapter 13, bankruptcy actually helps you keep your home by allowing you to catch up on missed mortgage payments over time while stopping foreclosure. Chris has helped thousands of Michigan families protect their homes and vehicles through strategic bankruptcy planning.

Q: Do I need to file Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy?

A: It depends on your income, assets, and goals. Chapter 7 can discharge most unsecured debts in about 3-4 months and works well if you pass the means test and don't have significant non-exempt assets. Chapter 13 allows you to restructure and repay debts over 3-5 years, which is ideal if you need to catch up on mortgage arrears, have income above the means test threshold, or want to keep assets that wouldn't be protected in Chapter 7. Chris will analyze your specific situation and recommend the best option for your circumstances.

Q: Can bankruptcy stop foreclosure in Michigan?

A: Yes. Filing bankruptcy triggers an automatic stay that immediately stops foreclosure proceedings, giving you breathing room to catch up on missed payments. Chapter 13 is particularly effective for foreclosure prevention because it allows you to cure mortgage arrears through a court-approved repayment plan over 3-5 years while keeping your home. Chris has extensive experience with Michigan foreclosure defense and has helped numerous families save their homes from foreclosure through strategic bankruptcy filing.

Q: Will bankruptcy ruin my credit forever?

A: No. While bankruptcy does impact your credit in the short term, it's not permanent. Chapter 7 stays on your credit report for 10 years, Chapter 13 for 7 years, but the impact diminishes significantly over time. Most of Chris's clients start rebuilding their credit scores within 12-24 months after filing. In fact, many clients see their scores improve because bankruptcy eliminates the negative impact of late payments, collections, and maxed-out credit cards. Chris provides guidance on credit restoration strategies as part of his comprehensive bankruptcy representation.

Q: Can bankruptcy help with tax debt or student loans?

A: It depends on the specific type of debt and timing. Some income tax debts can be discharged in bankruptcy if they meet certain criteria (generally, taxes must be at least 3 years old, you must have filed returns at least 2 years ago, and the assessment must be at least 240 days old). Student loans are more difficult to discharge but not impossible — you must demonstrate "undue hardship" in an adversary proceeding. Chris has presented at multiple bankruptcy conferences on the topic of tax debt in bankruptcy and can evaluate whether your tax debts qualify for discharge or restructuring.

These FAQs were last reviewed and updated by Christopher W. Jones in January 2026. Bankruptcy laws and procedures can change. For current information specific to your situation, call 866-261-8282 for a free consultation.

Take the First Step Toward a Fresh Start

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by debt, wage garnishment, or the threat of foreclosure, Attorney Chris Jones is here to help you find relief — without judgment and with a clear plan you can trust. Chris offers same-day and next-day consultations, either in-person or by phone, so you can get answers quickly and start moving forward.

Chris believes everyone deserves to understand their options before making big financial decisions. Your initial meeting comes at no cost, and you’ll walk away with a thoughtful plan for your next steps — a no-pressure, encouraging, and solutions-focused conversation.

Call 866-261-8282 today to schedule your no-cost consultation with Michigan bankruptcy attorney Chris Jones. He’s ready to help you understand your options, regain control, and start fresh.

Take the first step toward peace of mind.

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

Notable Speaking Engagements:

• 5/2012: The Institute of Continuing Legal Education (ICLE) 3rd Annual Consumer Bankruptcy Institute.
  • Topic: Real Property Issues
• 1/2012, The Institute for Continuing Legal Education (ICLE)
  • Topic: The Basics of Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
• 10/2011, American Bankruptcy Institute’s Consumer Bankruptcy Conference in Detroit, Michigan, Attorney Presenter.
  • Topic: Surrendering Property in a Chapter 13 Bankruptcy.
• 2/2011, The Institute for Continuing Legal Education (ICLE), Panel Speaker.
  • Topic:  Bankruptcy Boot Camp
• 10/2012, American Bankruptcy Institute’s Consumer Bankruptcy Conference in Detroit, Michigan, Attorney Presenter.
  • Topic:  Retirement Planning and Bankruptcy
• 11/2013, American Bankruptcy Institute’s Consumer Bankruptcy Conference in Detroit, Michigan, Attorney Moderator.
  • Topic:  The Chapter 13 Model Plan – One Year Later
• 2016 Steven Rhodes Consumer Bankruptcy Conference; Ongoing Problems in Identifying What Constitutes a Debtor’s Projected Disposable Income November 2016
• 2017 Steven Rhodes Consumer Bankruptcy Conference; “Advising Potential Consumer Debtors About Their Tax Debts” November 2017
• Debtors Bar of West Michigan (11th Annual Conference); “Advising Consumer Debtors on Income Tax Debt” January 2020
• 2021 Steven Rhodes Consumer Bankruptcy Conference; “Consumer Bankruptcy; Navigating Post-Pandemic Mortgage Forbearance Agreements and Related Mortgage Default”  November 2021
• 2022 Steven Rhodes Consumer Bankruptcy Conference; “Chapter 13 Plan and Trustee Conduit Mortgage Payments: Challenges and Consideration”November 2022
• 2023 Steven Rhodes Consumer Bankruptcy Conference; “At The End of the Long and Winding Road: End of Case Issues” November 2023