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.
Knowing how to guard your personal information is your first line of defense against identity theft.
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 defendant either pleads guilty, not guilty, or stands mute (meaning they don't plead at all, which the court treats as a not guilty plea). If they plead guilty or no contest, they may be sentenced on the spot, or a sentencing date will be scheduled.
If the defendant pleads not guilty, the judge then sets bond (bail) and sets a date for a pre-trial conference. Most defendants are released on bond. A victim may contact the county jail to find out if the defendant has been released.
If the defendant pleads guilty prior to a trial, they may be sentenced that day, or a hearing date for sentencing will be scheduled.
If there is no guilty plea, a trial may be heard by the Judge, or by a jury.
During trial, the defendant is not required to testify or to present any evidence, and 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 of the charges. If the defendant is found guilty, the Court will either sentence that day, or set a sentencing date.
If the conviction is for a serious misdemeanor, the victim may submit a written or oral impact statement to the Court.
The Court will then sentence the defendant. A sentence may include a fine, probation, community service, and/or a term in jail or prison.
A victim of any misdemeanor may request restitution. If properly documented, the Court must order the defendant to make restitution to the victim.
Your victim advocate in the prosecutor's office can assist you with any questions you may have.