January 2026 Legal Updates: Bankruptcy, Tax Preparation & Landlord-Tenant Law in Michigan and Florida ⚖️
Upton Law, PLLC is starting 2026 with expanded legal services and critical updates for individuals, business owners, and landlords in Michigan and Florida. With rising consumer debt, increased bankruptcy filings, and evolving landlord-tenant laws, now is the time to stay informed and legally prepared.
Rising Bankruptcy Filings in Michigan and Florida 📈
Consumer and business bankruptcy filings are increasing across Michigan and Florida due to inflation, rising interest rates, wage garnishments, tax debt, and post-pandemic financial challenges.
Bankruptcy protection can help individuals and businesses:
Stop wage garnishments
Eliminate or restructure debt
Prevent foreclosure and repossession
Address overwhelming tax debt
Obtain a fresh financial start
📍 New Service Announcement:
Upton Law, PLLC now offers bankruptcy filings in Florida, including Chapter 7 bankruptcy and Chapter 13 bankruptcy, in addition to our long-standing Michigan bankruptcy services.
Tax Preparation Services for Individuals, Small Businesses & Landlords 🧾
As tax season begins, Upton Law, PLLC is now offering professional tax preparation services for qualifying individuals, married couples, and property owners.
Tax Preparation Eligibility
✔ Individuals earning up to $84,000
✔ Married couples earning up to $150,000
✔ One small business
✔ Up to two rental properties
Proper tax filing can reduce the risk of IRS collection actions and may impact bankruptcy eligibility.
📞 Tax & Bankruptcy Consultations Available
🕒 Monday – Thursday | 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Updated Office Hours – Serving Clients More Efficiently 🕘
To improve turnaround time and court filings, our office hours for 2026 are:
Monday – Thursday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Fridays are reserved for court filings, document preparation, and case strategy—allowing us to serve our clients efficiently and effectively.
Real Estate & Landlord-Tenant Law Updates in Michigan 🏠
Michigan landlords should prepare for increased legal scrutiny in eviction cases due to expanded Right to Counsel laws, which provide more tenants with legal representation.
Key Landlord-Tenant Law Reminders
🚫 Do not accept rent after filing a termination of tenancy
Accepting rent after filing may require a refund or result in dismissal of the eviction case.
🔧 Repair Orders in Nonpayment of Rent Cases
If habitability issues exist:
Judges may issue repair orders
Rent payments may be delayed
Tenants may be ordered to deposit rent into a court escrow account
Staying compliant with housing codes and documentation requirements is essential to protecting your rights as a landlord.
Start 2026 with Experienced Legal Guidance 💼
Whether you are considering bankruptcy in Michigan or Florida, need tax preparation services, or require guidance on landlord-tenant and real estate law, Upton Law, PLLC is here to help.
📞 Schedule a consultation today to discuss your legal options and protect your financial future.
Meet the founderShakeena Melbourne
At the heart of Upton Law is Shakeena Melbourne, founder and Principal Attorney, a lawyer who is a fierce advocate for your peace of mind and happiness.
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