Michael Stevenson’s passion for bankruptcy law stemmed from a memorable internship during law school, where he worked under Judge Ray Reynolds Graves – a judge he describes as having a big personality and a commanding presence in the courtroom. Judge Graves both challenged and mentored Michael, providing invaluable lessons through what Michael describes as a “baptism under fire.”

Today, Michael serves as a Chapter 7 Trustee, a role in which he acts as a fiduciary responsible for administering Chapter 7 bankruptcy cases in the Eastern District of Michigan. Michael has administered more than 35,000 bankruptcy cases as Chapter 7 and Chapter 11 Trustee since appointment to the U.S. Chapter 7 Trustee Panel in 1996, distributing millions of dollars to creditors.

Michael’s cases encompass a broad range of issues — from shuttered hotels to Medicare fraud — and throughout his career, he has developed the ability to navigate these complexities skillfully. He is committed to protecting the rights of all parties involved, ensuring both a timely process and a fair outcome in each case.

Despite the seriousness of the issues he confronts, Michael says he enjoys the wide variety of different industries and cases he deals with on a regular basis.

In addition to his professional duties, Michael enjoys speaking on topics of interest, including regular appearances at the Federal Bar Association bankruptcy seminars, the Consumer Bankruptcy Association, and writing for the American Bankruptcy Trustee Journal. Michael is a member of the National Association of Federal Equity Receivers (NAFER). He also has served as a judge in the Duberstein National Moot Court Competition for the American Bankruptcy Institute.

Michael has testified before the Michigan State Legislature and the United States Congress concerning legislation that would affect bankruptcy laws.