Legal Assistance and Support
Have questions about leases, tenant rights, or other legal matters? MSU offers resources to help you understand your rights and responsibilities as an off-campus student. Get the guidance you need to navigate legal situations with confidence and peace of mind.
The list below outlines several options, some of which may fit your needs than others. Please click on options that you feel may work for you and you will receive further explanation and direction to that particular resource.
Legal Assistance Options
Housing Resources- Legal
Student Legal Services: a free service to all MSU students currently enrolled in courses.
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MSU College of Law Legal Clinics: For MSU Community members seeking help in a variety of areas (taxpayer law clinic, housing law clinic, immigration law clinic, etc.).
Got a ticket?
Got A Ticket: Our quick guide for when you get a ticket on/off campus.
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City of East Lansing Ticket Information:
54B District Court Virtual Counter
The East Lansing 54B District Court implemented a "virtual counter," where court users can interact with court staff via Zoom.
The virtual counter is available by video or phone Monday-Friday from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. and 1-4 p.m. Instructions to access the virtual counter are provided below:
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https://zoom.us/j/7496176888
Select ‘Join’ using the Zoom app or website (zoom.us)
Meeting ID: 749 617 6888
-- OR --
Phone (no video): (646) 876-9923
Meeting ID: 749 617 6888##
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MSU Parking Violations: Pay parking violations online through the payment portal.
Neighborhood Relations Resources
Community Engagement Team: East Lansing Police Department: An alternative to seeking police services, the community engagement team works in conflict resolution, community outreach, and quality of life issues in the city (repeated noise, non-emergency disputes, etc.).
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Mediation: An alternative resolution method that is inexpensive and has proven to be effective.
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Office of Community & Student Relations: If you've exhausted all resources above and need guidance on resources available, please contact the Community & Student Relations Coordinator.
Non-Legal Assistance Options
Housing Resources- Non-Legal
Rental Housing Division - City of East Lansing: This municipal division regulates housing licenses in the City of East Lansing. This division receives and provides follow-up on rental home property code violations, over-occupancy complaints, and renting without a license complaints.
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Student Rights Advocates: For graduate and undergraduate students who need advising for any case in the University Judicial System, where a licensed lawyer is not allowed.
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Office of Community & Student Relations: If you've exhausted all resources above and need guidance on resources available, please contact the Community & Student Relations Coordinator.
Troubleshooting Rental Issues
Troubleshooting Rental Issues: If you're having rental issues, please start with our office checklist for how to troubleshoot issues.