Michigan Lake Access Dispute Law

There is an old quote attributable to both Mark Twain and Will Rogers —

buy land, they're not making it anymore.

This quote has even more meaning when it comes to lake property. Although Michigan has over 11,000 inland lakes, residential lake property in Michigan has a limited supply, it is extremely coveted by Michiganders (and out-of-staters) and, therefore, almost always quite valuable. Whenever you have these factors mixed together, lawsuits usually follow closely.

Jackson County, Michigan, is an area with countless inland lakes, and this community is well known as a lake and boating area for its residents and visitors. In total, Jackson County has 125 lakes (depending on your definition), ranging in size from small, private lakes to 800 acre lakes.

Michigan has special, ever-changing and confusing laws governing waterfront property, inland lakes, the Great Lakes, road ends, dockage/mooring, and backlot property owners.

Disputes over water rights and lake access are commonplace. It is important to seek the guidance and advice of knowledgeable and experienced water law attorneys so you can protect your property rights and interests. You must be proactive. If you fail to act, or decide to wait until later, you could lose your rights and valuable property interests.

Curtis, Curtis & Brelinski's real estate attorneys have been representing property owners in Jackson County and southern Michigan since 1901. Our attorneys have over 55 combined years of experience practicing law in Michigan. Both of our lawyers grew up on lakes in the greater Jackson, Michigan area, and both currently have family cottages on inland lakes in Michigan. We have first-hand knowledge of the ins-and-outs of the issues that property owners face with lakefront and water access situations. Let us put our experience and knowledge to work for you.

Common Issues that Arise with Lake Property

  • Lake Access Disputes
  • Road End Disputes
  • Dockage and Mooring Rights
  • Backlot Access Rights
  • Easement Rights
  • Trespass, Noise Complaints and Nuisances
  • Boundary Disputes
  • Adverse Possession
  • Acquiescence

To set up an appointment to speak to one of our lake access real estate attorneys, call (517) 787-9481, email info@curtiscurtislaw.com, or complete our online contact form. Based in Jackson, we serve property owners throughout southern Michigan.