Michigan · Paralegals practicing law
Paralegals practicing law in Michigan
If a non-lawyer took your money in Michigan — under the guise of paralegals practicing law — Michigan law is on your side. Here's how the claim works.
Reviewed July 2026 by the FakeLawyerReport editorial team
Why this is illegal in Michigan
Paralegals must work under a licensed attorney. When one takes on clients directly or gives legal advice, it's UPL — even if they used to work at a real firm.
Michigan's UPL statute: Mich. Comp. Laws § 600.916; MRPC 5.5
Practicing law in Michigan without being an active member of the State Bar is a misdemeanor, and the Attorney Grievance Commission can pursue civil enforcement.
Penalties in Michigan
Misdemeanor (up to 1 year and $1,000), plus civil injunctions and restitution.
What you can recover
- A full refund of every dollar you paid.
- Statutory or civil damages under Michigan's consumer-protection laws.
- Attorneys' fees in most cases — often no out-of-pocket cost.
- Referral to a licensed Michigan attorney to try to fix the underlying case.
How to report paralegals practicing law in Michigan
- File with State Bar of Michigan — the state bar's UPL committee.
- File a consumer complaint with the Michigan Attorney General.
- Submit your case on this site for a free confidential review with a licensed Michigan attorney who handles UPL recovery.
Related resources
Were you harmed by a fake lawyer?
Get a free, confidential case review. About a minute — no cost, no obligation.
Report a fake lawyer