The Michigan Supreme Court recently released a report highlighting the work of the state’s 214 circuit court judges.
The report, “Success Stories: How Circuit Courts Work to Serve the People of Michigan,” features six circuit court judges from around the state, as well as in-depth look at the function and history of circuit courts in Michigan.
Featured as well is a map of circuit courts by county and a history of the circuit court’s family division.
“The process of delivering justice in Michigan involves three levels of trial and appellate courts that comprise the constitutional institution we refer to as the ‘state judiciary.’” said Chief Justice Stephen J. Markman. “In particular, the role of the circuit court — the trial court of general jurisdiction — is pivotal in this process.
“We recognize and applaud the diligent and conscientious work quietly performed in their courtrooms and in their chambers by all of our state's circuit court judges.”
Circuit judges featured in the report include: Chief Judge Robert Colombo Jr., Wayne County; Chief Judge Stephen Carras, Midland County; Judge Wendy Potts, Oakland County; Judge Michelle Rick, Clinton/Gratiot Counties; Judge Donald Johnston, Kent County; and Chief Judge William Fagerman, Missaukee/Wexford Counties.
The circuit court’s original jurisdiction over criminal cases includes felonies and certain serious misdemeanors, known as circuit court or high court misdemeanors.
The court’s civil jurisdiction includes cases where the amount in controversy is $25,000 or more; the court also handles cases where a party seeks an equitable remedy.
Family division cases and appeals from district courts and administrative agencies, are also within the circuit court’s civil jurisdiction.
“I am extraordinarily proud to be part of a group of talented women and men who serve their community as circuit court judges,” said Macomb County Circuit Court Judge Tracey Yokich, who serves as president of the Michigan Judges Association, which is the judicial organization for circuit and court of zppeals judges in Michigan.
“Daily, we are called upon to discharge our responsibilities involving the most tragic and life-altering circumstances with patience, compassion, and a firm and knowledgeable voice,” Yokich said. “So many of my colleagues do so with remarkable grace and empathy that they continue to inspire me today.”
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