My question involves court procedures for the state of: Michigan.
I have a complaint filed against me in an attempt to collect a debt from breaching an apartment lease and not fulfilling the payments demanded. At the time of breaching the lease, I had a verbal agreement with my landlord but I know that will most likely not hold up in court. The agreement was that I needed to move out because I was pregnant and was moving home with my family. In addition, I did not have the income to pay my rent (the total debt is totaling near 7000.00).
I am now summoned to court and/or need to file a written response to the complaint, which will result in a pre-trial.
I understand I am at fault in this case but I do not have the full amount (or anywhere close) of the debt. Is there a chance I can have a payment plan set up?
I cannot afford a lawyer for this case and the court will not appoint me an attorney because it is a civil case. Do I need a lawyer?
Finally, are there certain details I should make sure I include or leave out of my written response?
Thank you all.

