MI HR0367

Michigan District Court system was established by Public Act 154 of 1968, effective June 17, 1968, replacing the justice of the peace system with attorney judges serving full-time.

District courts have exclusive jurisdiction over civil claims up to $25,000, including small claims, landlord-tenant disputes, and land contract disputes, and conduct civil marriage ceremonies.

District courts handle criminal proceedings including most misdemeanors, conduct preliminary examinations in felony cases prior to circuit court transfer, and handle offenses with maximum penalties not exceeding one year in jail.

The district court is referred to as "The People's Court" because the public has more contact with it than any other court in the state, with many litigants representing themselves without attorneys.

House Resolution 367 commemorates the 50th anniversary of the Michigan District Court system and honors its contributions to Michigan.