Michigan Legal Services – Detroit, MI

Advocates for Housing and Economic Justice

Michigan Legal Services is a non-profit legal organization deeply rooted in the fight against poverty and homelessness in Detroit. Unlike traditional law firms, this organization is dedicated exclusively to serving low-income individuals and families who are often marginalized by the legal system. Located in the Cass Corridor, just north of downtown, the firm focuses on systemic issues that affect the basic human needs of Detroit residents: housing, health, and economic stability. For over 50 years, Michigan Legal Services has been a frontline defender, working to prevent homelessness, fight unjust tax foreclosures, and ensure that the most vulnerable members of the community have a voice in court.

Critical Legal Services

The organization concentrates its resources on areas where legal intervention can have the most profound impact on a family’s survival. Their primary practice areas include:

• Housing Rights and Eviction Defense: Representing tenants facing eviction and working to preserve affordable housing in the city. They are key players in the Detroit Right to Counsel coalition.
• Tax Foreclosure Prevention: Helping homeowners navigate the complex property tax system to avoid losing their homes to tax foreclosure, a major issue in Detroit.
• Community Economic Development: Assisting community-based organizations and non-profits with legal structure and capacity building to revitalize neighborhoods.
• Public Benefits: Advocating for individuals who have been wrongfully denied essential government assistance.
• Health Law: Addressing legal barriers that prevent low-income residents from accessing quality healthcare.

A Legacy of Impact

Michigan Legal Services does not just handle individual cases; they work to change the system. The organization has a long history of impact litigation that has set precedents benefiting thousands of people. By partnering with community groups and other advocacy organizations, they tackle the root causes of poverty rather than just the symptoms. Their attorneys are experts in the specific statutes and regulations that govern subsidized housing and municipal tax laws, providing a level of expertise that is rare even among private practitioners.

Located in the Cass Corridor

The organization is headquartered at 2727 Second Avenue. This location in the historic Cass Corridor (now often referred to as Midtown) places them right in the community they serve. The building is situated near the intersection of Second Avenue and Temple Street, just a block away from the Masonic Temple and Cass Park. This accessible location ensures that clients can easily reach them via public transportation.

Committed to the Community

The team at Michigan Legal Services consists of dedicated attorneys, paralegals, and social workers who are driven by a passion for social justice. They understand the stress and fear that come with legal problems, especially when a home or livelihood is at risk. They provide not just legal representation, but also hope and dignity to those who need it most.

Eliminating the systemic causes of poverty through legal advocacy and community support.

Accessing Help

If you are facing a housing crisis, tax foreclosure, or other legal issues related to basic needs, Michigan Legal Services may be able to help. As a non-profit, their capacity is limited, but they strive to assist as many eligible Detroit residents as possible. Contact them during business hours to inquire about their intake process and eligibility requirements.