Lakeshore Legal Aid

Lakeshore Legal Aid's property tax advocacy program has been helping Mount Clemens area residents navigate assessment challenges and secure tax relief for over 15 years. Our mission focuses on making property tax appeals accessible to working families and small business owners who might otherwise struggle with the complex appeal process. We understand that property taxes can create serious financial hardship, especially for homeowners on fixed incomes or small businesses operating on tight margins. Our team combines legal expertise with community-focused advocacy to ensure that all property owners have access to fair assessments. We've successfully helped thousands of clients reduce their property tax burden while building stronger, more equitable communities throughout Macomb County.

Our comprehensive property tax services include free assessment reviews for qualifying clients, preparation and filing of appeals with local boards of review, and representation at hearings. We handle residential properties including single-family homes, mobile homes, and small multi-family buildings, as well as small commercial properties and mixed-use buildings. We provide educational workshops on understanding property assessments, knowing your appeal rights, and navigating the Michigan Tax Tribunal system. Our advocates help clients gather necessary documentation, prepare compelling arguments, and present their cases effectively. We also offer referral services to private attorneys for complex cases that exceed our capacity, and we maintain relationships with pro bono appraisers who assist with challenging valuations when needed.

We start with a free telephone screening to determine if your case qualifies for our services based on income guidelines and case complexity. If eligible, we'll schedule an in-person consultation to review your property and assessment details. Our advocates will analyze your assessment, research comparable sales, and determine if an appeal is warranted. We handle all paperwork and deadlines, prepare your case presentation, and accompany you to hearings if necessary. We also provide follow-up services to ensure any approved reductions are properly implemented on your tax bills. Throughout the process, we focus on education so you understand your rights and can advocate for yourself in the future.

We primarily serve Mount Clemens and throughout Macomb County, including Warren, Sterling Heights, Clinton Township, and Fraser. Our services extend to parts of St. Clair County and eastern Wayne County for clients meeting our income eligibility requirements. We're familiar with assessment practices across multiple jurisdictions and maintain relationships with local assessors.