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Free Guide to Hiring a Real Estate Lawyer
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Michigan real estate, landlord-tenant, construction, and land-use law covers disputes and approvals involving homes, rental properties, contractors, and development projects. The rules can depend on the type of property, the contract, and the city, township, or county where it is located.
Common matters include evictions and lease disputes, construction payment and defect claims, mechanic’s liens, zoning and site-plan decisions, building permits, and environmental approvals. A lawyer can assess deadlines, explain local procedures, and help resolve a dispute or prepare for a hearing.
A landlord or tenant receives a notice to quit, eviction complaint, or court summons. Michigan summary proceedings move quickly, and the notice, lease, and reason for eviction can affect the available response.
A contractor, subcontractor, or supplier has not been paid for work or materials. Construction lien notices and filing deadlines can be short, and errors may affect the ability to secure or collect payment.
A homeowner discovers defective work, water intrusion, code problems, or unfinished construction. A lawyer can review the contract, warranty, inspection record, and potential claims before evidence or deadlines are lost.
A city, township, or county denies a zoning variance, site-plan approval, or building permit. Local ordinances and appeal procedures may control what can be challenged and when.
A proposed project may affect wetlands, shorelands, or other regulated natural resources. State permits and local land-use approvals may both be required.
A buyer, seller, landlord, or developer faces a dispute over a purchase agreement, disclosure, title restriction, easement, or condominium documents. Legal review can clarify obligations before a transaction closes or a dispute escalates.
Landlord-Tenant Relationships Act, 1972 PA 348: This law addresses residential rental relationships, including certain termination and possession rules. It took effect April 1, 1973; the applicable notice depends on the reason for termination and the tenancy.
Construction Lien Act, 1980 PA 497: This law governs construction liens and related notices and enforcement. It took effect April 1, 1982; in general, a lien claimant must record a claim within 90 days after last furnishing labor or materials and bring an enforcement action within one year after recording.
Michigan Zoning Enabling Act, 2006 PA 110: This law authorizes local zoning and land-use regulation, including zoning boards of appeals. It took effect July 1, 2006; local ordinances and decision-specific appeal deadlines also matter.
Not every disagreement requires a lawyer, but legal advice can be important when an eviction case, substantial money, habitability issue, or lease termination is involved. A lawyer can check whether required notices and court procedures were followed.
It depends on the reason for ending the tenancy and the lease. A demand for possession for nonpayment commonly gives seven days, while ending some month-to-month tenancies generally requires at least one month’s notice.
There is no single timeline; it depends on the notice, court scheduling, the parties’ responses, and any request for review. Because court dates and response periods can arrive quickly, do not wait to seek advice after receiving papers.
A tenant may have defenses or other issues to raise, depending on the lease, notices, payment records, and circumstances. The tenant should attend the scheduled hearing and follow the court’s instructions, even while seeking legal advice.
Generally, a claim of lien must be recorded within 90 days after the claimant last supplied labor or materials to the project. Notice requirements and exceptions can depend on the claimant’s role and the project, so confirm the deadline promptly.
In general, an action to enforce a recorded lien must be brought within one year after the lien is recorded. The project documents and statutory requirements should be reviewed before relying on that period.
Options may include seeking review by a zoning board of appeals or pursuing another local or court process. The available route and filing deadline depend on the decision, the local ordinance, and the record created during the application.
Many construction or alteration projects require permits, but requirements depend on the work and the local enforcing agency. Ask the local building department before work begins, and check separately for zoning or environmental approvals.
Michigan has no single statewide fee for these services. Lawyers may charge hourly rates, a flat fee for defined work, or another arrangement; request a written fee agreement explaining costs and billing.
Possibly, but winning does not automatically mean the other side must pay your legal fees. A contract or applicable law may allow recovery, and the specific facts and court decision matter.
Some legal aid programs serve people who meet income and case-type requirements, but eligibility varies. Contact a local legal aid provider or consult Michigan Legal Help for information about self-help resources and finding assistance.
Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, Bureau of Construction Codes: Provides information about state construction codes and code administration. Local governments may handle permits and inspections in their jurisdictions.
Michigan State Housing Development Authority: Offers housing programs and information for residents, communities, and housing providers. It does not replace legal advice about an individual dispute.
Michigan Courts: Provides court information, forms, and procedural resources, including materials relevant to landlord-tenant cases. The local district court handles many summary proceedings cases.
Identify the immediate issue and deadline. Within a day or two, collect any court papers, notices, contracts, permits, invoices, and decision letters, and note every stated deadline.
Find lawyers who handle the relevant Michigan practice. Search for counsel focused on landlord-tenant disputes, construction claims, real estate transactions, or land-use matters, as appropriate.
Arrange initial consultations. Contact several lawyers within a few days, especially if an eviction hearing, lien deadline, or appeal period is approaching.
Prepare a concise case summary. Provide a timeline, the property location, the other parties’ names, and copies of key documents before or during the consultation.
Ask about strategy, deadlines, and fees. Confirm who will handle the matter, what the first stage includes, likely costs, and whether any fee-shifting provision may apply.
Review the engagement agreement before signing. Make sure the scope, billing terms, expenses, and responsibilities are clear, then provide requested records promptly.
Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Michigan through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Housing, Construction & Development, experience, and client feedback.
Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.
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Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.
We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.
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