Washtenaw County Circuit Court: Overview, Procedures, and Services

Introduction

The Washtenaw County Circuit Court is one of the busiest courts in Michigan. It is responsible for handling civil, criminal, and family law cases. The court plays a significant role in the administration of justice in Washtenaw County. This article provides an overview of the Washtenaw County Circuit Court, its procedures, and services.

History of the Washtenaw County Circuit Court

The Washtenaw County Circuit Court was established in 1827, and it is one of the oldest courts in Michigan. Initially, the court was responsible for handling all cases, including civil and criminal cases. Over the years, the court’s jurisdiction has expanded to include family law cases, juvenile cases, and probate cases.

Jurisdiction of the Washtenaw County Circuit Court

The Washtenaw County Circuit Court has jurisdiction over civil cases where the amount in controversy is greater than $25,000. The court also has jurisdiction over criminal cases where the offense is a felony. In addition, the court handles family law cases, including divorce, child custody, and support. The court also handles juvenile cases, such as delinquency and neglect cases.

Judges of the Washtenaw County Circuit Court

The Washtenaw County Circuit Court has six judges who are elected to serve six-year terms. The judges are responsible for presiding over cases and making decisions based on the law and evidence presented in court. The judges of the Washtenaw County Circuit Court are committed to upholding the principles of justice and fairness.

Procedures in the Washtenaw County Circuit Court

The procedures in the Washtenaw County Circuit Court vary depending on the type of case. In civil cases, the plaintiff files a complaint with the court, and the defendant has an opportunity to respond to the allegations. The parties may engage in discovery to obtain evidence to support their case. The case may be resolved through a settlement or trial.

In criminal cases, the defendant is charged with a crime, and the prosecution has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. The defendant has the right to a trial by jury, and the prosecution must prove the case beyond a reasonable doubt.

In family law cases, the parties may engage in mediation to resolve disputes before going to court. If mediation is unsuccessful, the court will hold a hearing to determine the issues in dispute. The court’s decision is based on the best interests of the child, and the court strives to ensure that the child’s needs are met.

Services provided by the Washtenaw County Circuit Court

The Washtenaw County Circuit Court provides a range of services to the public. The court operates a self-help center to assist people who are representing themselves in court. The self-help center provides information and forms to help people navigate the court system.

The court also provides access to online resources, including court forms, instructions, and information about court procedures. The court’s website has a section dedicated to jury duty, providing information about the process and what to expect.

Washtenaw County Circuit Court: Information, Procedures, and Resources

If you’re looking for information about the Washtenaw County Circuit Court, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll provide an overview of the court, its procedures, and resources available to you.

Overview of the Washtenaw County Circuit Court The Washtenaw County Circuit Court is located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and serves the county of Washtenaw. The court has jurisdiction over civil, criminal, family, and juvenile cases, and has a number of judges who preside over these cases.

Case Lookup in the Washtenaw County Circuit Court

If you’re looking to find information about a case in the Washtenaw County Circuit Court, you can use the court’s online case lookup tool. This tool allows you to search for cases by name, case number, and other criteria. You can also view case dockets, orders, and other documents related to the case.

Judges in the Washtenaw County Circuit Court

The Washtenaw County Circuit Court has a number of judges who preside over cases in the court. These judges are experienced in a variety of legal areas and are responsible for making decisions and judgments in cases before the court. You can find more information about the judges on the court’s website, including their biographies and contact information.

Zoom Hearings in the Washtenaw County Circuit Court

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Washtenaw County Circuit Court is now conducting many of its hearings and proceedings via Zoom. This allows participants to attend court remotely, without having to be physically present in the courthouse. If you have a case pending in the court, you may be able to participate in a Zoom hearing. Check with the court for more information.

Central Assignment in the Washtenaw County Circuit Court

The Washtenaw County Circuit Court has a central assignment system, which means that cases are assigned to judges based on their type and complexity. This system helps ensure that cases are heard by judges with the appropriate expertise and experience.

Live Stream of Court Proceedings in Washtenaw County

The Washtenaw County Circuit Court also provides a live stream of court proceedings on its website. This allows members of the public to view court proceedings remotely and stay informed about the cases being heard in the court.

Divorce Records in the Washtenaw County Circuit Court

If you’re looking for divorce records in the Washtenaw County Circuit Court, you can request them from the court’s clerk’s office. You may need to provide some information about the case, such as the names of the parties and the case number, in order to obtain the records.

Public Records in the Washtenaw County Circuit Court

Many court records in the Washtenaw County Circuit Court are considered public records and can be accessed by members of the public. However, some records may be restricted or require a court order to access. You can contact the court’s clerk’s office for more information about accessing public records.

Conclusion

The Washtenaw County Circuit Court is an essential part of the justice system in Washtenaw County. The court plays a significant role in ensuring that justice is served and that people’s rights are protected. The court’s judges and staff are committed to providing excellent service to the public and upholding the rule of law.

FAQs

How do I file a complaint in the Washtenaw County Circuit Court?

To file a complaint in the Washtenaw County Circuit Court, you need to fill out the appropriate forms and file them with the court. You may also

How can I find information about court procedures in the Washtenaw County Circuit Court?

You can find information about court procedures on the court’s website, including information about filing a case, attending court, and appealing a decision.

What should I do if I receive a jury summons from the Washtenaw County Circuit Court?

If you receive a jury summons from the court, you must follow the instructions provided and appear for jury duty. Failure to appear may result in penalties.

Can I represent myself in court in the Washtenaw County Circuit Court?

Yes, you can represent yourself in court in the Washtenaw County Circuit Court. However, it is recommended that you seek legal advice before proceeding with a case.

How long does it take for a case to be resolved in the Washtenaw County Circuit Court?

The length of time it takes to resolve a case in the Washtenaw County Circuit Court varies depending on the type of case and the complexity of the issues involved. Some cases may be resolved quickly, while others may take months or even years to resolve.