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Isabella County

Isabella County Trial Court - Criminal Division

The criminal district division of the Isabella County Trial Court has jurisdiction over misdemeanor offenses (punishable by one year or less imprisonment). The court handles the case from arraignment through sentencing.

Felony cases (punishment over one year imprisonment) begin with an arraignment. A preliminary examination is held after arraignment. Following a preliminary examination in district court, the case may be bound over to circuit court.

Most cases before the criminal division of the district court will require a personal appearance before the Magistrate and/or Judge. 

The following list, but not limited to, are offenses that require a personal appearance on the date given to you by the arresting agency or jail:

There are other charges that may require your appearance.

Arraignments


When appearing for an arraignment, report to Windows #3, 4 or 5 at the Isabella County Courthouse. Be sure to arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled arraignment time. For further information about your arraignment, contact the Criminal Division Coordinator at 989-772-0911, ext 270.

Video Arraignments


Anyone in the custody of the county jail will be arraigned by an interactive video system. These arraignments are usually conducted at 1:00 pm before the Judge or at 2:30 pm before the Magistrate. Visitors and observers are welcome to view these arraignments, but it is suggested that you call to verify time.

Retaining an Attorney


If you have been charged with a felony, you may need an attorney to represent you. You should make arrangements to hire an attorney prior to your preliminary examination. If you cannot afford an attorney, you may petition the court for a court-appointed attorney.  Forms are available from the court.

Waiver of Arraignment (attorneys only)


To waive an arraignment for your client on a misdemeanor charge, a formal appearance and a written waiver of arraignment must be filed prior to the scheduled arraignment. Upon the filing of these documents, the arraignment will be canceled and a settlement conference date will be scheduled.

Bonds


Bonds are held until sentencing or until dismissal of charges. Bonds posted by a defendant are applied to fines and costs, if any. Bonds that are posted by someone other than the defendant (third-party poster) may be applied to fines and costs, if an Order to Apply bond is signed by the third-party poster. Bonds are refunded by mail to the address given to the court by the poster.

Fax Filings


Filing of documents by facsimile is governed by MCR 2.406. In addition to fees required by statute there is a $3.00 per page fee for facsimile transmissions.

Sentencing


Per Michigan Court Rule 1.110, all fines and costs are due and payable on the date of sentencing.

Payment


Please confirm the correct amount due by calling the court at 989-772-0911, ext 490 before making payment.

Quotes for fines and costs are good for the date you receive the quote only - late fees and other charges may be added if you delay payment beyond the due date.

Accepted methods of payment:


* Check / Money Order by mail to Isabella County Trial Court, 300 N Main Street, Mt Pleasant, MI 48858.

* Credit Card: Call (toll free) 1-888-604-7888. The operator will ask a series of questions including case number and the amount you are paying. The credit card service is a private vendor, therefore, there is a fee to use their service.

Court Hours and Contact Information:
Hours: Monday-Friday - 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., except on holidays

Isabella County Trial Court
300 North Main Street
Mt. Pleasant, Michigan 48858

Telephone: (989) 772-0911 ext. 490
Fax: (989) 779-8022

Please be advised that clerks cannot give legal advice.  It is recommended that you talk to an attorney for legal information/advice.