12th District Court, Jackson County

Judicial proceedings for every adult charged with a criminal offense begin in district court.

Crimes are classified under two major headings: misdemeanors and felonies.

Misdemeanors are crimes of a less serious nature that typically carry a possible jail sentence of less than one year. Vandalism, trespassing, prostitution and first or second offense drunk driving are examples of misdemeanors.

Felonies are crimes of a more serious nature that usually carry a possible prison term of more than one year. Criminal sexual conduct, murder, armed robbery and third offense drunk driving are examples of felonies.

Most criminal cases brought to district court begin with a formal arraignment. An arraignment is an appearance before a judge or magistrate where the defendant is advised of the criminal charges and his or her legal rights. The defendant has an opportunity to request a lawyer, if needed, enter a plea and if taken into custody may then be released on bond.

After the arraignment, the direction of a case takes through the court system is determined by very specific rules and conditions. These rules and conditions are determined to a great extent by Michigan law and court rules.

The court also is responsible for processing civil cases, including general civil actions up to $25,000; summary proceedings such as landlord-tenant matters, and small claims suits, which involve amounts for up to $3,000. In addition, the court schedules and conducts wedding ceremonies, which are performed by a judge or magistrate.