If you are considering bankruptcy in Michigan but cannot afford an attorney, free help is available. The organizations below provide legal assistance at no cost to qualifying residents. You can also visit lawhelp.org/MI for the most up-to-date directory of free legal services in Michigan.
Need immediate help?
Start with lawhelp.org/MI to find the legal aid office nearest you in Michigan. You can also call your local bankruptcy court (listed below) for information about self-help resources and pro se filing assistance.
Legal Aid Organizations
Michigan Legal Help
Statewide self-help resources including bankruptcy filing guides and forms.
Legal Aid of Western Michigan
Free legal services in western Michigan.
Legal Services of South Central Michigan
Free legal services for south central Michigan.
Lakeshore Legal Aid
Serves southeast Michigan and the Thumb region.
Law School Bankruptcy Clinics
University of Michigan Law School Clinics
Multiple legal clinics in Ann Arbor.
Wayne State University Law School Clinics
Legal clinics in Detroit.
Bar Association Pro Bono
State Bar of Michigan Lawyer Referral
Contact the bar association for pro bono referrals and reduced-fee attorney programs.
Bankruptcy Courts in Michigan
These are the federal bankruptcy courts serving Michigan. Many courts offer self-help desks, pro se workshops, and links to local volunteer attorney programs.
U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Eastern District of Michigan
Visit the court website for self-help resources, forms, local rules, and filing information.
U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Western District of Michigan
Visit the court website for self-help resources, forms, local rules, and filing information.
Credit Counseling
Federal law requires two counseling sessions for bankruptcy filers: credit counseling before filing, and debtor education before discharge. Visit the U.S. Trustee's list of approved agencies to find providers approved for Michigan. Many agencies offer free or reduced-cost sessions for low-income individuals.
Additional Resources
- LawHelp.org/MI -- Find free legal help in Michigan
- NACBA Find an Attorney -- Locate consumer bankruptcy attorneys (some offer free consultations)
- Browse all states -- Back to the full state directory
- 1328(f) Discharge Screener -- Free tool to check if you are eligible for a bankruptcy discharge