A single mother of two lived in unsafe conditions, including broken windows patched with cardboard and a peeling bathtub that...
Breaking Barriers: A Criminal Record Expungement Opens Doors
For individuals with a past criminal record, essential aspects of life—such as securing stable, affordable housing and gainful employment opportunities—often...
The Affordable Housing Crisis and its Impact on Homelessness
The affordable housing crisis has significantly contributed to rising homelessness rates in many regions. One of the busiest areas of...
Get to Know Michelle Johnson President & CEO LADA ( Legal Aid & Defender Association)

What would surprise people about your job? A Lot of what we do at Continue Reading……
113 Years of Justice: How LADA Detroit Continues to Transform Lives Through Legal Aid

When Margaret walks into her newly repaired apartment today, she can breathe easily knowing her landlord finally fixed the dangerous...
LADA’s Represents Veteran in Court

A 65-year-old Veteran endured severe stress and health issues from an infestation in her rental unit, which made it impossible for her to cook or live comfortably. After withholding rent to force the landlord to act, she faced an eviction case. Her concerns were compounded by ongoing disputes with a neighbor and minimal responsiveness from the property management.
LADA’s Intervention helps improve woman’s living conditions.

When a winter storm in January 2024 severely damaged her home, a 64-year-old woman living alone faced grave repair issues. A fallen tree on her roof caused water to leak into her bedroom light fixture, creating a fire hazard that forced her to avoid the room for over a month. Additional dangers included a blocked back door and a broken front screen door. These problems caused her significant distress and prevented her from being able to live in her home without fear for her health and safety.
Pro bono work exemplifies the best of what the legal profession can offer: knowledge and skills in service of the greater good.

Recognition of the critical need for legal services among our most vulnerable individuals, remains deeply valued in Michigan’s legal community as a professional obligation and – for many – a personal mission.
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