Responsibilities/Functions

Steps in a Criminal Case

Steps in a Juvenile Case

Helpful Definitions

Legal Searches

Media Releases

Bad Check Restitution

FAQ's

Crime Victim's Rights

Crime Victim's Resources

Victim Compensation

Domestic Violence

Personal Protection Orders (PPO)

Witness Services/Tips

Contact Information

Police/Court Information

Credits

Q - Can I report a crime to the Isabella County Prosecuting Attorney's Office?

 

A - Crimes should be reported to the police department that has jurisdiction over the area where the crime occurred.

 

 

Q - How does a complaint become a criminal case?

 

A - Law enforcement officers investigate a case and, if there is sufficient evidence, the request of a warrant is sent to the prosecutor's office.  If the prosecutor feels that charges should be brought against the person, a complaint and arrest warrant are prepared, beginning the judicial cycle.

 

 

Q - Do cases always go to trial?

 

A - Most cases are resolved before they get to the point of going to trial.  This is done through a plea agreement in which the prosecutor and defense attorney agree on a suitable punishment for the defendant.

 

 

Q - What happens in a trial?

 

A - The prosecuting attorney must present a case proving beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant committed the crime.  This is done through the presentation of evidence and the calling of witnesses.  The defense may present evidence or call witnesses, but is not required to do so.

 

 

Q - What is a subpoena?

 

A - A subpoena is an official court document requiring you to appear at the time and place it specifies, typically to testify.  A subpoena is binding until you are released from it by the judge or the case is finished.  Failure to appear for a subpoena is contempt of court.

 

 

Q - What if I cannot attend on the date specified by the subpoena?

 

A - In this case, you should contact the prosecuting attorney's office to discuss your conflict.

 

 

Q - What if I change my mind about prosecuting or testifying?

 

A - The decision to drop charges can only be made by the prosecutor or with the approval of a judge.  A case can be lost due to the absence of testimony of a victim or witness, thus it is the right of the court to require a witness to testify.

 

 

Q - Can I pay my ticket at the prosecutor's office?

 

A - No.  Tickets of any type need to be dealt with at the courthouse.

 

 

For answers to other questions concerning the Prosecutor's Office not address here, please call us at (989) 722-0911 ext. 311.