► Notice Regarding Services
Student Legal Services is open, but we are working remotely. We will conduct client appointments via Zoom or telephone. Notary services will be conducted by appointment only. If you want to schedule an appointment you can click here or call our office at (734) 763-9920 between 9:00 am - 5:00 pm.
► Scam Alert!
The Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") today warned of an ongoing IRS-impersonation scam from people with email addresses ending in ".edu." The suspect emails display the IRS logo and use various subject lines such as "Tax Refund Payment" or "Recalculation of your tax refund payment."
It asks people to click a link and submit a form to claim their refund. To learn more about this scam, click here. If you find yourself a victim of this or any other scam, please feel free to call Student Legal Services to schedule an appointment at (734) 763-9920 or via our online appointment request.
► Scam Alert!
There has been an uptick in leasing scams. Please be careful before signing a lease, a sublease, or sending any rent, deposits, or other fees in relation to a lease. If you are unsure about the validity of a proposed lease, please contact us before signing the lease or sending any funds.
► New Announcement!
U-M Ann Arbor's Student Legal Services is now partnering with U-M Flint to offer advice only legal services to students! Read here: https://news.umflint.edu/2020/09/21/um-flint-offers-legal-services-to-students/.
► COVID-19 Updates: U-M
U-M COVID-19 Updates: https://coronavirus.umich.edu/. Remember to mask up! As the spread of the infection increases, so does the University's enforcement of its policies. Don't risk your health or University discipline.
University of Michigan International Center: https://internationalcenter.umich.edu/
► COVID-19 Updates: Governmental Units
Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS): https://www.michigan.gov/coronavirus/0,9753,7-406-98178_98455-554922--,00.html
State of Michigan: https://www.michigan.gov/coronavirus/
Washtenaw County Health Department: https://www.washtenaw.org/3095/COVID-19
► COVID-19 Updates: Local Courts
15th District, 14A/14B District, and Washtenaw County Trial Courts: https://www.washtenaw.org/DocumentCenter/View/19946/2021-District-and-Trial-Courts-RETURN-TO-Phase-3-LAO
What is SLS?
Since 1979, Student Legal Services (“SLS”) has been assisting students. SLS is a division of Student Life and is a full-service law office consisting of five (5) full-time attorneys, one paralegal, and a legal secretary/office manager. Our service is only available to currently enrolled students, at the University of Michigan's Ann Arbor campus.
Our staff has a wide range of experience and knowledge of the law. they are familiar with the Ann Arbor and Washtenaw courts. They are well respected by the judges, county prosecutors, city attorneys, and other practicing attorneys.
What does SLS do?
The attorneys at SLS can advise you regarding your legal rights and represent you, if needed, in Washtenaw County courts only. It is also possible for the staff to negotiate with various individuals on your behalf (i.e. debt collectors). The attorneys also make various presentations throughout the school year, and they are also available to speak to student groups if requested.
Confidentiality:
Your discussions with our attorneys and other staff are protected by attorney/client privilege. We will not discuss your case with your parents, friends, spouses, or the University of Michigan without your written consent.
Limitations:
- SLS cannot assist you against another U of M student (contact OSCR or Beyond the Diag)
- SLS cannot assist you against the University (contact the Ombudsman’s office)
- Our attorneys are licensed in the State of Michigan and their advice is limited to this state
- Our attorneys only represent students in Washtenaw County courts
What legal areas does SLS handle?
- Criminal Defense
- Housing (landlord/tenant)
- Family:
- Child Support
- Custody Issues
- Divorce
- Legal Name Change
- PPO filing
- Basic Estate Planning (under "Family"):
- Wills
- Medical Directives
- Power of Attorneys
- Consumer:
- Auto Repair Disputes
- Bankruptcy (advice only)
- Debt Collection Assistance
- Employment Contract Review
- Identity Theft
- Insurance Claims
- Traffic (defense assistance)
- Small Claims Court (assistance with the process)
- Notary Services
- Immigration Referrals (SLS can refer eligible students, to an immigration attorney, for a no-cost 90-minute consultation)
The above list is not all-inclusive of the areas for which we provide services. If you do not see the area of your legal situation, please call our office to see if we can assist you.
How much does SLS cost?
SLS is funded through a nominal fee, which each student pays every semester. There are no additional fees charged for the attorney's services. However, the student is responsible for any costs associated with the case to include court filing fees, court fines, and service of process fees. Any fees will be explained to you by the attorney assigned to your case.
How do I get service?
If for any reason you are in need of legal advice and/or service, please call 734-763-9920 to schedule an appointment. It is especially important that you contact us as soon as possible regarding any upcoming court appearances or if you are served with a summons and complaint. No legal advice will be provided over the phone.
What to expect at the appointment?
When you come on the day of your appointment, please note:
- Each appointment lasts 20-minutes (except for appointments with U. Ashwin Patel)
- Arrive 5 - 10 minutes prior to your appointment to complete our client intake form
- Be on time – if our appointments are booked that day, you may need to reschedule
- Be prepared to show us your U of M Student Identification card
- Bring any documentation/information related to your matter, for the attorney’s review
- We will ask that you complete our exit survey after your appointment
