Legal Aid and Defender Association – Detroit, MI

Champions of Justice for All

The Legal Aid and Defender Association (LAD) is a historic pillar of justice in Detroit, Michigan. Founded in 1909, it stands as the oldest provider of free civil legal assistance to low-income residents in Michigan and one of the largest in the United States. This non-profit organization operates with a powerful mission: to ensure that the quality of justice a person receives does not depend on their financial means. LAD provides comprehensive legal representation through its Civil Law Group and supports the indigent through its Defender initiatives. Whether you are facing an eviction crisis or need help clearing your criminal record to secure employment, LAD offers a lifeline. Their team of dedicated attorneys and paralegals works tirelessly to level the playing field, fighting for the rights of the most vulnerable members of the community in Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties.

• Housing Defense – Preventing homelessness through eviction diversion and foreclosure defense.
• Expungement Services – Helping citizens clear criminal records for a fresh start.
• Family Law – Assisting with domestic violence protection, divorce, and custody matters.
• Public Benefits – Securing access to Social Security, food assistance, and veterans’ benefits.

Headquarters in Corktown

The organization is headquartered in its own dedicated facility at 613 Abbott St. This location places it on the edge of the historic Corktown neighborhood and downtown Detroit, providing easy access for residents. The building is a functional, modern office structure situated just off the Lodge Freeway (M-10), making it a convenient destination for clients arriving by car or public transport. It is located near the Detroit Public Safety Headquarters and just a few blocks from the MGM Grand Detroit. The facility is designed to welcome the community, with accessible entrances and spaces for confidential client consultations.

Holistic Legal Services

LAD goes beyond traditional legal representation by adopting a holistic approach to client services. They understand that legal problems often stem from underlying social or economic issues. By partnering with social work agencies and community organizations, they strive to solve the root causes of their clients’ legal troubles. Their Civil Legal Services division handles thousands of cases annually, ranging from landlord-tenant disputes to consumer debt issues. For those who cannot afford a private attorney, LAD is often the only barrier against injustice. They also run specialized clinics and outreach programs to bring legal aid directly into the neighborhoods that need it most.

We believe that justice is not a luxury for the few, but a right for all.

Eligibility and Access

Services at the Legal Aid and Defender Association are generally available to residents who meet federal poverty guidelines. Potential clients can apply for assistance through their intake line or website. Due to the high demand for services, priority is often given to emergency cases such as domestic violence and housing loss. The organization is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, relying on grants, donations, and government funding to keep its doors open. If you are looking to find a lawyer but have limited resources, LAD is the primary resource in Metro Detroit. Their commitment to equal justice has earned them numerous accolades and the trust of the community for over a century.