The Michigan Attorney General has determined that a full and complete investigation of what happened within the Catholic Church is required. This investigation is and will continue to be independent, thorough, transparent, and prompt. My department and this investigation will find out who knew what, and when.
The Michigan Department of Attorney General utilizes the services of Special Assistant Attorneys General from time to time when the unique circumstances of a particular case create the need for specialized services not currently available within the department.
The Conviction Integrity Unit (the “CIU”) investigates claims of innocence to determine whether there is clear and convincing new evidence that the convicted defendant was not the person who committed the offense.
In Michigan, a victim is an individual who suffers direct or threatened physical, financial, or emotional harm as a result of the commission of a crime.
The Task Force launched in 2019 and consists of more than 55 different organizations in the public, private and nonprofit sectors - all working together to combat elder abuse.
The laws regarding expungement of criminal offenses in Michigan changed in major ways in April of 2021. This page is designed to help applicants navigate their way through the new laws, help them determine if they are eligible to have convictions expunged, to answer frequently asked questions about the new laws, and to provide links for resources and assistance.
To investigate and prosecute hate crimes by following up on every credible tip and offer departmental resources to assist local and federal law enforcement partners in this effort.
The Michigan Attorney General is leading the fight against this horrific crime by prosecuting the state's first-ever criminal cases under state law banning human trafficking in Michigan. Victims of human trafficking are in bondage through force, fraud or coercion, for the purpose of sex or labor exploitation.
Michigan Identity Theft Support
Michigan Attorney General's robocall initiative is leading several efforts to protect Michigan residents from the billion plus robocalls made to them every year.
The Open Meetings Act (OMA) took effect January 1, 1977. In enacting the OMA, the Legislature promoted a new era in governmental accountability and fostered openness in government to enhance responsible decision making.1 Nothing in the OMA prohibits a public body from adopting an ordinance, resolution, rule, or charter provision that requires a greater degree of openness relative to public body meetings than the standards provided for in the OMA. 2
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After arrest, the defendant is brought before the District Court and informed of the charges against them.
They are advised of their right to an attorney.
The judge then sets bond (bail) and sets a date for the probable cause hearing.
Most defendants are released on bond.
A victim may contact the county jail to find out if the defendant has been released.
This hearing is before the District Court Judge and must be scheduled within 21 days of the arraignment, unless the parties agree to a delay.
Using a probable cause standard, the Prosecutor must show that a crime was committed, and that the defendant committed it.
If the Judge determines there is probable cause, the defendant is bound over to the Circuit Court for further proceedings.
A defendant may decide to waive the preliminary examination and be sent directly to the Circuit Court.
The defendant is again arraigned, and given formal notice of the crime(s) charged against him or her. He or she enters a plea to the charge(s). A pre-trial conference may occur at this time.
Numerous events can occur before a trial. The Court may determine whether evidence will be admitted or excluded at trial. The Court may find there is some legal reason why the defendant should not be tried. The defense attorney and the Prosecutor may meet to determine whether the defendant will plead guilty to the crime(s) charged, or to some other offense(s) to resolve the case.
If the defendant pleads guilty, there will be no trial. Once the defendant pleads guilty or is convicted, the Court will set a sentencing date.
A trial may be heard by the Judge, or by a jury. During trial, the defendant is not required to prove his or her innocence.
The Prosecutor must prove the defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Following the trial, either the Judge or the jury renders a decision of guilty or acquittal.
If the defendant is found guilty, the Court will set a sentencing date.
Before sentencing, a Michigan Department of Corrections probation officer will prepare a Pre-Sentence Investigation Report (PSIR). The report contains information about the crime, the defendant's criminal history (if any) and background, and a sentence recommendation.
The victim may submit a written or oral impact statement to the probation officer, and ask that it be included within the PSIR.
During the sentencing hearing and prior to sentencing, a victim may choose to address the court and present a victim impact statement.
The Court will then sentence the defendant. A sentence may include a fine, probation, community service, and/or a term in jail or prison. If requested by the victim and properly documented, the Court must order the defendant to make restitution to the victim.
If the victim asks, the Prosecutor will keep them informed of any appeal or other post-conviction proceedings.
If an appeals is filed with the Court of Appeals, you can search for the status and documents in the case using the Court of Appeals' website.