Legal Aid Resources for Michigan Renters

Free or low-cost help is closer than you think—check eligibility in seconds and connect with the right office today.

Michigan renter discusses eviction defense with a legal aid attorney

Why Legal Aid Matters for Michigan Renters

Michigan district courts saw roughly 150,000 eviction filings last year alone. Most tenants have only days to respond once the paperwork hits their mailbox. Legal aid programs bridge the gap, giving renters critical advice—or full courtroom representation—at no cost or a drastically reduced fee. Whether you’re fighting an illegal late-fee, seeking repairs, or navigating a security-deposit dispute, a legal aid attorney can be the difference between keeping your home and scrambling for boxes.

These nonprofit offices leverage public funds, private grants, and volunteer attorneys to serve low-income residents. They handle everything from emergency eviction defense to security-deposit recovery. The sooner you call, the better: housing cases are highly time-sensitive under Michigan court rules.

Below, you’ll find an eligibility chart, a county-by-county directory, and a two-question Quick Check tool to gauge your odds—all in plain English.

How Legal Aid Works in Michigan

Most Michigan programs follow a similar workflow:

  1. Intake Call: You provide basic income details, household size, and case type.
  2. Conflict Check: Staff ensure they haven’t represented your landlord.
  3. Triage: Urgent cases—like imminent lockouts—jump to the front of the line.
  4. Service Level: You may receive brief advice, document drafting help, or full representation depending on resources and case strength.
  5. Follow-Up: Many offices schedule check-ins to track progress and next steps.
Pro Tip: Phone lines often open Monday at 8 a.m. Call early for the shortest wait.

Common Services

  • Emergency eviction defense
  • Repair & habitability letters
  • Security-deposit recovery
  • Utility shut-off prevention
  • Record-sealing of past evictions
  • Limited-scope mediation representation
  • Self-help clinics & document review

Legal Aid Income Eligibility Chart (2025)

Most Michigan housing programs serve households at or below 200 % of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), though a few still cap at 125 %. Categorical exceptions exist for veterans, domestic-violence survivors, and seniors.

Income thresholds (gross annual) for common household sizes
Household Size 200 % FPL 125 % FPL
1$36,620$22,888
2$49,380$30,863
3$62,140$38,838
4$74,900$46,813
5$87,660$54,788
6$100,420$62,763
7$113,180$70,738
8$125,940$78,713

Assets rarely disqualify housing cases unless liquid assets exceed $15,000.

Regional Directory

Call first to confirm intake hours. Many offices accept online applications 24/7.

County Program Name Phone Website
WayneLakeshore Legal Aid(313) 242-0811lakeshorelegalaid.org
OaklandLegal Aid & Defender Assoc.(877) 964-4700ladadetroit.org
KentLegal Aid of Western Michigan(616) 774-0672lawestmi.org
InghamLegal Services of South Central MI(517) 394-3121lsscm.org
WashtenawMichigan Advocacy Program(734) 665-6181mplp.org
GeneseeLegal Services of Eastern MI(800) 322-4512lsem-mi.org
MarquetteUP Legal Services(906) 228-5620uplegalservices.org
StatewideMichigan Legal Help(888) 783-8190michiganlegalhelp.org

Eligibility Quick Check

Enter your household size and annual gross income. We’ll compare against the 200 % FPL threshold.

Results are estimates—not a legal determination.

Preparing for Your Appointment

  1. Gather your lease, any notices, rent ledger, and photos of issues.
  2. Create a simple timeline of events—use our Sample Letters tool to structure dates.
  3. Write down your top three goals (e.g., stop eviction, fix furnace).
  4. Request accommodations early (interpreter, disability access).
  5. Confirm location, parking, or Zoom link 24 hours ahead.
Remote vs In-Person Meetings: Many offices still offer phone or video consultations—perfect if you lack transportation or have mobility challenges.

Alternatives If You Don’t Qualify

Option Cost Speed Best For
Mediation $0–$80 1–3 weeks Repair disputes, ongoing tenancy
Small Claims Court $30–$70 filing 45–90 days Security-deposit or money-only claims ≤ $7,000
Private Attorney $150–$400/hr Varies Complex cases, high damages

Explore our guides to mediation vs small claims or find a lawyer in our Attorney Directory.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ask for a “brief advice” appointment or written self-help packet, then explore mediation and our low-cost attorney list.

Retaliation for asserting legal rights is illegal under Michigan law. Document any sudden rent hikes or notices and contact an attorney immediately.

Emergency eviction cases often receive same-day callbacks. Less urgent matters may take 1–2 weeks depending on staffing.

Yes. Communications are protected by attorney-client privilege just like any private law firm.

No. Legal aid is generally funded through grants and donations. You will not receive a bill for covered services.

Not automatically, but many programs treat rent-relief recipients as categorically eligible. Provide documentation during intake.

Usually they provide advice, but tenants represent themselves in small claims. Ask if a lawyer can review your exhibits before court.

Yes—Michigan Legal Help offers a statewide online intake form available 24/7.

This information is provided for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult a qualified attorney for guidance on your specific situation.