I need legal Help
I need legal Help
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Detroit tenants have a right to seek legal counsel in eviction court, and free legal services are available at the 36th District Court. But there are not enough lawyers to provide full representation to all tenants who need it.
Detroit tenants have a right to seek legal counsel in eviction court, and free legal services are available at the 36th District Court. But there are not enough lawyers to provide full representation to all tenants who need it.
Detroit City Council passed a Right to Counsel ordinance in May 2022. This law says that low-income tenants have the right to free legal representation, but City Council and the Mayor have not funded the program enough to ensure that all tenants can access their right to free legal representation.
Detroit City Council passed a Right to Counsel ordinance in May 2022. This law says that low-income tenants have the right to free legal representation, but City Council and the Mayor have not funded the program enough to ensure that all tenants can access their right to free legal representation.
Legal aid organizations are present at the 36th District Court and may be able to assist you. Because these organizations have limited capacity, it is often difficult to get in touch with an attorney before your first scheduled hearing.
To access free legal advice and/or representation, attend your scheduled court date.
The first hearing in eviction court is a pre-trial, meaning that the court will not decide the outcome of the case that day. When you arrive at the courthouse and find your assigned courtroom, sign in with the clerk and wait for your case to be called. Your judge should inform you that legal aid organizations are available to assist you, and direct you to their office (Room 417) where they will complete and intake form for services. Alternatively, you can arrive early and try to speak with legal aid in Room 417 before your hearing, but make sure to be in the courtroom at the scheduled time on your Summons.
If the judge does not inform you of your right to seek legal representation, make sure to inform the judge that you do not have an attorney and that you want to speak to one. Learn more about how to demand your right to an attorney here.
NOTE: If you do not appear at your hearing, a default judgment and ultimately an eviction order will be entered against you. Even if you don't know if you have a defense against eviction, attending court can help delay the process and connect you with an attorney and/or other resources that may be able to prevent your eviction or keep a judgment off of your record.
Detroit area legal aid providers:
Detroit area legal aid providers:
These legal service providers have limited capacities but may be able to assist you.
These legal service providers have limited capacities but may be able to assist you.
Lakeshore Legal Aid provides a range of free civil legal services for those who have a low income and can assist you with eviction and landlord/tenant matters in court. Call them at (888)-783-8190.
United Community Housing Coalition (UCHC) provides free counseling and legal representation as well as housing relocation services for people in Wayne County with low incomes. Call them at (313)-963-3310. Email: eviction@uchcdetroit.org (if you’re facing eviction) or help@uchcdetroit.org (for any other issues or questions).
Michigan Legal Services provides free representation in housing matters to low-income people in for people in Wayne County with low incomes. Call them at (313)-964-4130.
Detroit Justice Center may be able to provide legal assistance for housing matters. Call them at (313)-736-5957.
Southwest Detroit Immigrant and Refugee Center offers free and low-cost legal services (not just immigration law) in the Detroit area. Call them at (313)-288-9904. They have 2 law clinics a week:
2826 Bagley on Wednesdays, 12-6 pm;
15491 Maddelein (East side) on Thursdays, 12-5 pm.
Michigan Bar Modest Means Program connects moderate-income people with attorneys who offer reduced prices. It isn’t free. There are income and asset guidelines. Fill out an application on the website, and they’ll call you.
If you cannot find a lawyer to assist you:
If you cannot find a lawyer to assist you:
Michigan Legal Help (MLH) is a website for people handling legal problems without a lawyer. It can help you understand your legal problems, prepare for court and connect you with legal representation.
Additionally, there’s a Michigan Legal Help Self-Help Center in the Coleman Young Building, 19th floor, Room 1911. Hours are 9 am-2 pm. You can access the website there. They have “navigators” help visitors use the website, answer questions about court practices, and answer simple questions about forms. They don't provide legal advice.
Law Help Interactive (by the Michigan Poverty Law Program) helps you fill out legal documents for free.
The Detroit Housing Resources HelpLine may help connect you with available housing services and relocation assistance. Call (866)-313-2520.
The Detroit Housing Resources HelpLine may help connect you with available housing services and relocation assistance. Call (866)-313-2520.
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