Macomb County Circuit Court: A Comprehensive Overview

Macomb County Circuit Court is a judicial court that serves Macomb County, Michigan. Established in 1818, the court is responsible for handling a variety of legal matters, including civil lawsuits, criminal cases, and family law disputes. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive overview of the Macomb County Circuit Court, including its history, jurisdiction, and procedures.

History of Macomb County Circuit Court

Macomb County was established in 1818, and the first circuit court was established soon after. The court was originally located in the county seat of Mount Clemens, which remains its location to this day. Over the years, the court has undergone several changes, including the addition of new judges, the expansion of court facilities, and the adoption of new technology to improve court operations.

Jurisdiction of Macomb County Circuit Court

The Macomb County Circuit Court has jurisdiction over a wide range of legal matters, including civil lawsuits, criminal cases, and family law disputes. Some of the most common types of cases heard by the court include:

• Civil lawsuits involving disputes over money, property, or contracts
• Criminal cases involving felony offenses, such as murder, robbery, and drug offenses
• Family law disputes involving divorce, child custody, and child support

In addition to its primary jurisdiction, the court also hears cases on appeal from lower courts in the county.

Procedures of Macomb County Circuit Court

The procedures of the Macomb County Circuit Court vary depending on the type of case being heard. In civil lawsuits, for example, the plaintiff files a complaint with the court, and the defendant must respond within a certain period of time. The court then schedules a trial, during which the parties present evidence and arguments to a judge or jury. In criminal cases, the defendant is entitled to a trial by jury, and the prosecution must prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt.

In family law cases, the court may require the parties to participate in mediation or other alternative dispute resolution methods before proceeding to trial. The court also has the authority to issue orders regarding child custody, visitation, and support, and to enforce those orders through contempt proceedings.

Macomb County Circuit Court Judges

The Macomb County Circuit Court currently has 14 judges, who are elected to six-year terms by the voters of Macomb County. The judges are responsible for presiding over cases, making rulings on legal issues, and overseeing court operations. In addition to their judicial duties, the judges also serve on various committees and task forces aimed at improving the justice system in Macomb County.

Macomb County Circuit Court Services

The Macomb County Circuit Court offers a variety of services to the public, including:

• Online access to court records and case information
• Assistance with filing court forms and documents
• Access to legal resources and referrals to local attorneys
• Support for victims of domestic violence and other crimes

The court also operates a drug court and a veterans court, which offer specialized services to individuals with substance abuse or mental health issues.

Macomb County Circuit Court Services

The Macomb County Circuit Court offers a range of services to the public, including online access to court records and forms, legal resources, and support for victims of domestic violence and other crimes. The court’s website provides information on court procedures, court rules, and court fees.

One of the specialized services offered by the court is the drug court, which is designed to help individuals with substance abuse issues. The drug court offers treatment, counseling, and supervision to individuals who have been convicted of drug-related offenses. The court also operates a veterans court, which provides services to veterans who are facing criminal charges and have mental health or substance abuse issues.

Macomb County Circuit Court Judges

The Macomb County Circuit Court has 27 judges who are elected to six-year terms by the voters of Macomb County. The judges are responsible for presiding over various cases, including civil, criminal, and family law cases. The judges are divided into two divisions: the civil division and the criminal/family division.

The judges of the Macomb County Circuit Court are experienced and knowledgeable in their respective fields of law. They are committed to upholding the principles of justice and fairness in all cases that come before them. Some of the judges have received awards for their contributions to the legal profession and the community.

Case Search in the Macomb County Circuit Court

If you are looking for information about a case that has been filed in the Macomb County Circuit Court, you can search for it online using the court’s website. The case search feature allows you to search for cases by case number, party name, attorney name, and case type.

In addition to the case search feature, the court’s website provides information on court schedules, court forms, and court rules. You can also find information on how to file a case in court, how to pay court fees, and how to request copies of court records.

Other Circuit Courts in Michigan

In addition to the Macomb County Circuit Court, there are several other circuit courts in Michigan that serve different counties. The Oakland County Circuit Court, for example, serves Oakland County and has 25 judges. The Wayne County Circuit Court serves Wayne County and has 39 judges.

Conclusion

The Macomb County Circuit Court is a vital institution in the Michigan justice system, with a long history of serving the people of Macomb County. From civil lawsuits to criminal cases to family law disputes, the court handles a wide range of legal matters, and its judges are committed to upholding the rule of law and ensuring justice for all. Whether you are a plaintiff, a defendant, or simply a member of the public seeking legal assistance, the Macomb County Circuit Court is here to help.

FAQs

1. What is the jurisdiction of the Macomb County Circuit Court? The court has jurisdiction over civil lawsuits, criminal cases, and family law disputes, as well as cases on appeal from lower courts.
2. How are judges appointed to the Macomb County Circuit Court? Judges are elected to six-year terms by the voters of Macomb County.
3. What services does the Macomb County Circuit Court offer to the public? The court offers online access to court records, assistance with filing court forms and documents, access to legal resources, and support for victims of domestic violence and other crimes.
4. Does the Macomb County Circuit Court offer specialized services? Yes, the court operates a drug court and a veterans court, which offer specialized services to individuals with substance abuse or mental health issues.
5. How can I contact the Macomb County Circuit Court? You can visit the court’s website or call the court’s main phone number to contact the court.