44th District Court Criminal Defense

Navigating the 44th District Court in Royal Oak

If you're facing a legal matter in Royal Oak or Berkley, you'll likely find yourself at the 44th District Court. This courthouse is a central part of the local justice system, handling a wide array of cases that directly impact the community.

Located at 400 East Eleven Mile Road in Royal Oak, Michigan, the 44th District Court is conveniently situated next to the city hall and police station. Its jurisdiction extends to the cities of Royal Oak and Berkley, serving the residents of these southeast Oakland County communities.

The Role of the 44th District Court in Michigan's Legal System

As a district court, the 44th District Court is part of the first tier of Michigan's three-tiered judicial system, acting as the primary trial court for initial proceedings and specific case types. This system also includes the Circuit Court and the appellate courts. District courts across Michigan are considered courts of limited jurisdiction, meaning they handle specific types of cases as defined by law.

The 44th District Court has exclusive jurisdiction over all misdemeanor criminal cases, which are generally offenses punishable by up to one year in jail and/or a fine. For more serious felony cases, the court handles the initial stages. These typically include the arraignment on the warrant, pre-trial conferences, and the preliminary examination. The preliminary examination is a critical hearing where the prosecutor must present enough evidence to demonstrate probable cause that a crime was committed and that the defendant committed it. If probable cause is established, the case is "bound over" to the Oakland County Circuit Court in Pontiac for further proceedings and trial. The court is presided over by two elected district judges.

Types of Cases Handled

The caseload at the 44th District Court is diverse and reflects the legal issues that arise in a bustling suburban area. The court presides over:

• Criminal Charges: A significant portion of the court's docket involves misdemeanor offenses. These can include charges such as Operating While Intoxicated (OWI/DUI), which carries significant penalties, retail fraud (shoplifting), assault and battery, domestic violence, minor in possession of alcohol (MIP), and various drug offenses (though Michigan's marijuana laws have changed, illegal possession/use can still result in charges). The 44th District Court is particularly known for its rigorous approach to OWI offenses, often imposing strict probation terms, mandatory alcohol education, and potential participation in its Sobriety Court program. Given the serious implications and the court's reputation for strict enforcement, securing experienced legal counsel is crucial for anyone facing criminal charges in this court.
• Traffic Tickets and Violations: The court processes all traffic and parking tickets issued within Royal Oak and Berkley. This includes civil infractions like speeding, disobeying a traffic signal, or improper lane use, which can result in fines and points on your driving record. More serious traffic-related misdemeanors, such as driving with a suspended license (DWLS), reckless driving, or leaving the scene of an accident, are also handled here and can carry jail time, significant fines, and long-term license sanctions. Even seemingly minor traffic infractions can impact insurance rates and driving privileges, making legal consultation advisable for understanding all potential consequences and exploring options to minimize impact.
• Local Ordinance Cases: The court also hears cases involving alleged violations of local ordinances for the cities of Royal Oak and Berkley. This can range from zoning issues to noise complaints and other municipal code infractions.
• Landlord-Tenant Disputes: Like other district courts in Michigan, the 44th District Court handles disputes between landlords and tenants, including eviction proceedings and claims for damages.
• Small Claims and Civil Litigation: The court presides over civil lawsuits where the amount in question is $25,000 or less, providing a venue for individuals and businesses to resolve financial disputes.

For more detailed information, including court dockets, specific procedural questions, and contact information, it is always best to consult the official 44th District Court website.