Free Legal Aid in Michigan
Free and low-cost legal help available in Michigan. Includes LSC-funded legal aid organizations, pro bono programs, and self-help resources for people who cannot afford an attorney.
Data last updated: Apr 16, 2026Key Takeaways
- 3 legal aid organizations serve Michigan.
- Income eligibility: generally 125% of federal poverty level.
- Covers civil matters: housing, family law, consumer issues, benefits.
- Does not cover criminal cases — contact the public defender.
Legal Aid Organizations in Michigan
Michigan Legal Help
Statewide online resource providing legal information, self-help tools, and referrals for Michigan residents.
Legal Aid of Western Michigan
Provides free civil legal services to low-income residents of western Michigan.
Lakeshore Legal Aid
Serves low-income residents of southeastern Michigan with free civil legal services in housing, family, and consumer matters.
Additional Resources
What Legal Aid Covers
- Housing: Eviction defense, landlord disputes, public housing issues
- Family law: Divorce, custody, protection orders, child support
- Consumer: Debt collection, credit issues, utility shutoffs
- Benefits: SSI/SSDI, SNAP, Medicaid, unemployment
- Immigration: Some programs handle immigration matters
What Legal Aid Won't Cover
- Criminal cases: Contact the public defender's office
- Fee-generating cases: Personal injury, workers' comp (find a contingency-fee lawyer instead)
- Over income limit: Ask about sliding-scale fees or limited-scope representation
If You Don't Qualify
- Find a lawyer in Michigan — many offer free consultations
- Small claims court in Michigan — handle smaller disputes yourself
Frequently Asked Questions
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How do I get free legal help in Michigan?
Visit MichiganLegalHelp.org to find your local legal aid office or call 211 for referrals to legal aid providers in your area.
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What cases does Michigan legal aid handle?
Michigan legal aid covers housing, family law, domestic violence, public benefits, consumer debt, elder law, and disability rights for qualifying low-income residents.
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Does Michigan have self-help legal tools?
Yes. MichiganLegalHelp.org provides automated forms, step-by-step guides, and self-help tools for common legal issues that Michigan residents can use for free.