A Helping Hand For Michigan Families

WILLIAM D. JOHNSON

Founder & Managing Attorney — Ann Arbor Office
248.443.7033 ext. 223 | Admin@AcclaimLegalServices.com

About Attorney William Johnson, Founder of Acclaim Legal Services

William (Bill) Johnson isn’t just an attorney — he’s the founder of Acclaim Legal Services and the driving force behind the firm’s mission to combine legal excellence with genuine compassion. For over three decades, Bill has been helping individuals and families across Michigan find relief from debt, stop foreclosure, and reclaim control of their financial futures.

Graduating with honors in Finance from Walsh College, Bill earned his Juris Doctor from Michigan State University College of Law in 1994, then continued post-graduate studies at Wayne State University with a concentration in bankruptcy and finance.  Starting his schooling with a Finance degree really shaped his perspective once he began law school and clerked for a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Trustee as well as the U.S. Trustee’s office. 

As Bill often says: “Yes, 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.”

Clients often find comfort in that perspective. Bill doesn’t just explain the legal side — he helps people see the bigger financial picture. He takes time in every conversation to explain how options like Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 may impact their home, income, and long-term financial goals.  His goal is always to help people make choices that lead to lasting stability and peace of mind.

Throughout his career, Bill has guided countless Michigan families through difficult seasons with empathy, honesty, and practical advice. His mix of financial insight and legal skill makes him uniquely qualified to help clients not only get out of debt, but also build a path toward a stronger financial future.

Bankruptcy & Debt Relief for Clients Across Michigan

Bill serves clients in Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti, and across Washtenaw County, while also advising individuals and families throughout Michigan on complex bankruptcy and debt relief matters. His practice includes:

• Chapter 7 Bankruptcy – For individuals seeking a fresh start by eliminating unsecured debts.
• Chapter 13 Bankruptcy – Customized repayment plans to stop foreclosure, prevent repossession, and manage tax debt.
• Foreclosure Defense – Legal strategies to save homes and negotiate with mortgage lenders to prevent home foreclosure.
• Debt Relief & Credit Restoration – Helping clients rebuild credit and financial stability post-bankruptcy.
• Bankruptcy Litigation – Representing clients in contested matters and precedent-setting cases.

Bill’s knowledge of Michigan’s bankruptcy courts — especially in Washtenaw County, Ann Arbor, and the Eastern District of Michigan — ensures his clients benefit from both local insight and statewide experience.

Recognition, Leadership & Community Involvement in Michigan Bankruptcy Law

Bill’s leadership extends beyond client work; he has helped shape Michigan bankruptcy practice through professional service and published expertise.

• Founder of Acclaim Legal Services
• Member, State Bar of Michigan
• Member, Federal Bar Association
• Member, American Bar Association
• Member, American Bankruptcy Institute (ABI)
• Member, Consumer Bar Association
• Member, National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys (NACBA)
• Founding Member & Past Treasurer, Detroit Debtor Bar Association
• Member, United Way’s Michigan Foreclosure Task Force – Foreclosure Prevention & Stabilization Collaborative
• Member, LegalShield

Published Works on Bankruptcy and Foreclosure Strategies

Bill’s expertise has been published in national legal resources, including:

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

Guiding Michigan Clients with Compassion & Lasting Financial Solutions

Bill understands that financial distress can happen to anyone. His clients describe him as thorough, compassionate, and approachable — someone who will spend as much time as needed to ensure you understand your options.

He takes a solutions-first approach, breaking down complex legal and financial concepts into clear, actionable steps that clients can follow with confidence. For Bill, every bankruptcy case is more than just legal paperwork — it’s a lifeline that allows people to protect their homes, keep their dignity, and rebuild their future.

In Their Own Words: Client Stories

"Beyond expectations" — Cody McKenzie

“My encounters with Attorney Johnson have been beyond expectations. He is a kind, courteous, compassionate man. His level of professionalism is rare, especially with such a wonderful personality. Couldn’t ask for a better experience.”

"Professional, empathetic, and empowering" — Justin Oneil

“I can’t thank Bill Johnson, Amanda Kuhns, and Giovanna Mogielski enough for their outstanding support throughout my Chapter 7 process. Each of them brought professionalism, empathy, and deep knowledge to the table, making a stressful situation feel manageable and even empowering. Bill was incredibly thorough and always took the time to explain every step clearly. Amanda was patient, responsive, and compassionate, which made a huge difference during such a personal and difficult time. Giovanna's attention to detail and follow-through ensured everything stayed on track. Together, they made a great team — supportive, efficient, and truly client-focused. I’m beyond grateful for their help and highly recommend their services.”

"Above and beyond" — Amy Clark

“This firm has gone above and beyond to help me! Bill is a very thorough and knowledgeable attorney. He worked with me on payments for services and has been very compassionate, understanding, and extremely helpful during this difficult time. I would highly recommend Acclaim to anyone with bankruptcy issues!”

"Like talking to family" — Luciana Roberts

“When I decided to file for bankruptcy, I was unsure of which firm to go with. After speaking with Mr. Bill Johnson, my decision was clear. He was warm and made me feel comfortable talking with him. He spent probably more time than he should have speaking with me, but he did. Throughout the process, it felt like I was consulting an uncle who cared. His staff was also great — Julie in Dearborn is a sweetheart and Giovanna was incredibly attentive and helpful. I’m grateful to have found this firm. They made the process very smooth and painless. I highly recommend them.”

"Truly unmatched" — Anthony Reyna

“We looked and talked to many lawyers, but Mr. Bill Johnson at Acclaim Legal Services was truly unmatched. We knew in just the first couple minutes of talking to him he was the one we wanted on our side. He was amazing and helped us in every way possible. Thank you very much — I would truly recommend this legal service over and over again.”

FAQs About Bankruptcy & Debt Relief with Attorney Bill Johnson

Q: What makes Acclaim Legal Services different from other Michigan bankruptcy firms?
A: When Bill founded Acclaim, he wanted it to be more than just a law office. His vision was a firm built on integrity, empathy, and practical solutions that truly help people rebuild their lives. That commitment is still at the heart of how we serve clients today:

• Accountability — We believe in being accountable not just to the courts, but most importantly to you. That means being honest about your options and guiding you with respect at every step.
• Professionalism — We know how stressful financial struggles can be. That’s why we prioritize treating every client with kindness, patience, and dignity — the way we would want to be treated ourselves.
• Quality Work — The outcome of your case matters deeply to us. Our attorneys and staff are detail-oriented and thorough, because your financial future deserves nothing less than excellence.

Bill’s role as founder means he set these principles in place, but they’re shared by every attorney and staff member you’ll meet at Acclaim. For our clients, that means consistent care, trustworthy advice, and a team that treats their situation as if it were their own family’s.

Q: What’s it like to meet with Bill for the first time?

A: Clients often describe Bill as approachable and down-to-earth. He knows how overwhelming financial stress can feel, so he focuses on listening first, then walking through options in plain language. The goal of your first meeting is not pressure — it’s clarity and peace of mind.

Q: Why does Bill talk so much about “making financial sense” in bankruptcy?

A: Before law school, Bill studied finance. That background helps him look at bankruptcy not only as a legal tool, but also as part of a bigger financial plan. Bill often reminds clients that bankruptcy is both a legal and financial decision. His finance-first training ensures every option is evaluated with your long-term stability in mind.

Q: Does Bill only see clients in Ann Arbor?

A: While Bill leads the Ann Arbor office, he works with individuals and families from across Michigan. Many people seek him out when their situations are more complex, but he welcomes anyone who needs guidance on debt relief options.

Q: What types of cases does Bill handle most often?

A: Bill has helped people through both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy, foreclosure defense, and debt resolution. He’s also handled contested cases and litigation in Michigan’s bankruptcy courts. No matter the case, his focus is on finding a solution that provides lasting relief.

Q: Can bankruptcy really give me a fresh start?

A: Yes. Bankruptcy is designed to do exactly that — give people a financial reset. For many, it means stopping foreclosure, ending wage garnishments, eliminating overwhelming debt, and creating room to breathe again. Bill often reminds clients that bankruptcy is not about failure; it’s about regaining stability and building a foundation for the future. With the right plan in place, most people not only get out of debt, but also move forward with confidence and peace of mind.

Q: How long will bankruptcy stay on my credit in Michigan?

A: In Michigan (and everywhere in the U.S.), a Chapter 7 bankruptcy generally stays on your credit report for up to 10 years, while a Chapter 13 usually remains for 7 years. But that doesn’t mean you’ll be “locked out” of credit for that entire time. Many people begin rebuilding their credit right away and see meaningful improvements within 12–18 months. Bill helps clients focus on practical credit restoration strategies so they can buy a car, qualify for a mortgage, or simply feel financially independent again — often much sooner than they expected.

Q: Can bankruptcy really help protect my home or wages?

A: Yes. One of the strongest protections in bankruptcy is the “automatic stay,” which immediately stops foreclosure, wage garnishments, repossessions, and creditor lawsuits. Bill helps clients use this protection strategically to protect what matters most.

Q: How long does it take to rebuild credit after bankruptcy?

A: Most clients start to see improvements within 12–18 months after filing. Bill guides clients through credit restoration strategies so they can not only get out of debt, but also rebuild toward a healthier financial future.

Q: What should I bring to my first meeting with Bill?

A: Bring what you can — recent pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements, and a list of debts are most helpful. But don’t stress if it isn’t complete or perfectly organized. Bill will walk you through what matters most and help you get organized step by step.

Start Your Path to Financial Freedom in Michigan

If you’re facing creditor calls, foreclosure threats, or overwhelming debt, Bill Johnson is here to help. Your first meeting is always free and pressure-free — just a caring conversation about your options. You’ll leave with clarity, a plan, and renewed peace of mind.

Your first meeting comes at no cost — and instead of a sales pitch, you’ll walk away with a personalized, step-by-step plan to move forward.

Call 866-261-8282 or schedule below.
Let Bill help you protect what matters most, rebuild your finances, and move toward a more secure future.

Take the first step toward peace of mind.

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