Court Information

After Hours

An after-hours drop box is available 24 hours per day. It is located in the main lobby of the Livonia Police Department:
15050 Farmington Road
Livonia, MI 48154

Envelopes are provided, and no cash deposits are advised. Civil Filings/Pleadings may be deposited.

Judges

The 16th District Court is a State of Michigan Court that is administered by two elected District Judges who serve 6-year terms. A Magistrate appointed by the Judges assists with Informal Hearings on Civil Infractions, Arraignments on Ordinance cases, and Hearings on Small Claims.

Jurisdiction

The District Court has jurisdiction over all City Ordinance violations and State Law Misdemeanors. The Court also conducts Preliminary Examinations of Felony Cases.

Civil Matters

In Civil matters, this court has jurisdiction over all Civil cases where the amount claimed is up to $25,000, Small Claims cases up to $6,000, and a Landlord/Tenant division. The Court handles garnishments as well as eviction proceedings, land contracts, and mortgage foreclosures. In Small Claims matters, litigants agree to waive their rights to a jury, rules of evidence, representation by a lawyer, and the right to appeal from the District Judge's decision. Small Claims cases are heard by an Attorney/Magistrate whose decision becomes final if not appealed to a District Court Judge within seven days. If either party objects, the General Civil Division of the District Court will hear the case.

For Civil Division matters call 734-466-2500, ext. 3541 between 8:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. No filings will be accepted after 4:15 p.m.

Violations Bureau

The Court's Violations Bureau processes all traffic tickets, both Civil Infractions and Misdemeanors, that may be paid by statute without a Court appearance.

Probation Department

The 16th District Court Probation Department is responsible for the supervision of all individuals placed on Probation by the District Judges. Presently there are nearly 2,000 active cases. The staff consists of the Director of Probation, Chief Probation Officer, and a part-time Probation Officer. Thirty-five staff counselors and 80 Probation Officers who are citizen volunteers assist them. The Probation Department also coordinates and supervises a Voluntary Work Program, in lieu of jail, where individuals work at various municipal locations.

Juries

Juries in District Court are limited to six members (an alternate is selected), five of which can render verdicts in Civil cases. In Criminal cases, verdicts must be unanimous.

Legal Assistance

This site is designed to help you find legal assistance, learn about Michigan law, and represent yourself in some legal matters. This site does not provide legal advice.