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MIRule 1.4

Client Communication Rules for Michigan Law Firms

Michigan attorneys must keep clients reasonably informed, promptly respond to reasonable requests for information, and explain matters as necessary for informed decisions.

Rule 1.4 Key Requirements

  • 1Promptly inform clients of matters requiring consent
  • 2Reasonably consult about means to accomplish objectives
  • 3Keep clients reasonably informed about case status
  • 4Promptly comply with reasonable information requests
  • 5Explain matters for informed client decisions
View official rule text

Additional Michigan Requirements

Language Access

Michigan does not have formal language access requirements for attorneys, but the state has significant Arabic-speaking communities in the Detroit area and growing Hispanic populations.

Key languages: Arabic, Spanish, Chinese, and Bengali

Statute of Limitations

Attorneys must notify clients of applicable statutes of limitations. Michigan generally has a 3-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims.

Michigan-Specific Considerations

  • No-fault auto insurance system creates unique communication needs
  • Detroit market and rural Upper Peninsula have different expectations
  • Strong auto industry creates product liability practice
  • PIP benefits coordination requires clear client communication

How Quilia Helps Michigan Firms Stay Compliant

  • Automated updates track both PIP and liability claims
  • Treatment tracking manages no-fault benefit coordination
  • Mobile platform reaches clients across Michigan
  • Secure messaging protects confidential information
  • Communication logs demonstrate Rule 1.4 compliance

Michigan Legal Resources

State Bar of Michigan

Official WebsiteDiscipline & Ethics

Michigan Association for Justice(MAJ)

Trial lawyers association providing practice resources and advocacy.

Learn More

Frequently Asked Questions: Michigan Attorney Communication

What are Michigan attorney communication requirements?

Michigan Rule 1.4 requires keeping clients reasonably informed, responding promptly to inquiries, and explaining matters for informed decisions.

How does Michigan's no-fault system affect communication?

Attorneys must explain the complex no-fault PIP system and coordinate communication about both no-fault and liability claims.

What are penalties for communication failures in Michigan?

The Attorney Grievance Commission can impose sanctions from reprimand to disbarment for rule violations.

Does Michigan require written fee agreements?

Written agreements are required for contingency fees and recommended for all representations.

How does Quilia help Michigan firms?

Quilia helps manage the complex communication needs of Michigan's no-fault and liability claims through automated tracking.

Are electronic communications acceptable in Michigan?

Yes, with appropriate security measures and client consent.

What communication issues lead to Michigan complaints?

Common complaints include failure to explain no-fault procedures, inadequate updates, and unresponsiveness.

How should Michigan PI attorneys handle communication?

Personal injury attorneys must clearly communicate about both PIP benefits and third-party liability claims.

Legal Terms Every Michigan Attorney Should Know

Clear communication requires understanding these fundamental concepts. Click any term to learn more.

NegligenceDamagesStatute of LimitationsLiabilitySettlementContingency FeeDiscoveryDuty of Care
Browse all legal terms →
Last updated: January 24, 2026
Reviewed by: Quilia Legal Compliance Team
Primary Source: State Bar of Michigan

Keep Your Michigan Clients Informed - Automatically

Quilia helps Michigan law firms maintain Rule 1.4 compliance while reducing administrative burden and improving client satisfaction.

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