The future of the Detroit's Big Three is looking grim, as Congress has turned tight-fisted in response to the automakers' request for $34 billion to stay alive. Chrysler is getting ready to throw in the towel, and has chosen Jones Day to do the throwing.

From the Wall Street Journal (subscription):

Chrysler LLC has hired the prominent law firm Jones Day as bankruptcy counsel, according to several people familiar with the matter. The firm was hired several weeks ago to help the ailing auto maker prepare for a possible Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing.

Jones Day bankruptcy maven Corinne Ball, a partner in the New York office, will lead the effort should Chrysler fail to secure a $7 billion capital infusion by the end of the year.

Jones Day co-head of restructuring Corinne Ball is handling the case, said the people familiar with the matter. She has worked on other automotive bankruptcies, such as that of auto-parts supplier Dana Corp., and many cases involving the United Auto Workers union. She represented GM in its acquisition of Korean auto maker Daewoo.

AmLaw noted the possibility for this major coup for the Jones Day team. This will be a massive deal. Sad for Detroit and the general economy. But what's not these days?

Chrysler Hires Law Firm Jones Day as Bankruptcy Counsel [WSJ]
To Handle Potential Bankruptcy, Chrysler Taps Jones Day [WSJ Law Blog]
No Way! Jones Day Retained as Bankruptcy Counsel for Chrysler, Say Reports [AmLaw Daily]
Chrysler Hires Jones Day As Bankruptcy Counsel [Dealbreaker]