A Notice of Lis Pendens is a document that gives constructive notice of a pending suit to a purchaser of any real estate. The plaintiff files the notice with the register of deeds in counties where affected property are located. A Michigan Lis Pendens contains title and object of cause, legal description of property affected. 600.2701(1)

Typically, a complaint is filed a summons is served, then a Lis Pendens is filed when real property is involved. In Michigan a Lis Pendens can be filed with the complaint before the service of the summons; but, in that case, personal or substituted service of the summons must be made upon a defendant, within 60 days after the filing, or else, before the expiration of the same time, publication must be commenced, or service thereof must be made without the state, as prescribed by law. 600.2701(2)

The register of deeds shall record such notice, in a book kept for that purpose, upon the payment of the fee as is provided by law. A copy of such record, authenticated by the register of deeds, is evidence of such notice, and the recording of the same, in all courts and places. 600.270(3) The Notice once recorded will stay effective for a period of 3 years.

(Michigan LP Package includes form, guidelines, and completed example)

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