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Michigan Court Records

Michigan Court Records

1796 When Wayne County was organized in 1796, the county clerk handled all legal matters in the area.

1805 Michigan Territory was established, Supreme Court kept probate and other files.

County courts were abolished in 1833 and left few records of genealogical value.

Circuit courts serve from one to four counties and have exclusive jurisdiction over felony cases, chancery, and major civil, domestic, and equity matters. They have appellate jurisdiction over district courts. They also handled naturalizations prior to 1906.

District courts operate on a county, district or municipal level with jurisdiction over misdemeanors, ordinance violations, and minor civil matters.

Municipal courts have citywide jurisdiction in minor criminal and civil cases. Some also hear small claims cases.

Supreme Court is the final court of appeal.

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