In general, the three most commonly used trial courts are district, probate, and circuit court.
The court that most people have contact with is district court. The district courts handle most traffic violations, and both criminal and civil cases. In addition, small claims cases are heard by a division of the district court. In Michigan, a few municipalities have chosen to retain a municipal court rather than change to a district court. The municipal courts have limited powers.
The probate court handles wills, administers estates and trusts, appoints guardians and conservators, and commits the mentally ill for treatment. Many former probate court functions relating to juveniles have been transferred to the family division of circuit court.
The circuit court is the trial court with the broadest powers in Michigan. In general, the circuit court handles all civil cases with claims of more than $25,000 and all criminal cases where the accused, if found guilty, could be sent to prison. The family division of the circuit court handles all divorce, paternity, juvenile offenses, and child abuse and neglect cases. In addition, the circuit court also hears cases appealed from another court or by an administrative agency. For cases filed against the State of Michigan, there is a court of claims. The court of claims is part of the Ingham County circuit court.
The other Michigan courts are the Supreme Court and the Court of Appeals.
The location of your local district, probate, circuit and small claims courts can be found in the county government section of the telephone book.
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Last updated 3-15-06
Send your comments, questions and suggestions to Phil Harter at 161 E Michigan Avenue, Battle Creek, Michigan 49014 or e mail to pharter@calhouncountymi.gov.