We apologize for any inconvenience; at this time the Isabella County Administration Building is closed for asbestos abatement activities. For office locations and phone numbers click here for more information..

Criminal Division

Security screening prior to entry. No weapons, food or drink allowed.
300 N. Main St.
Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858
Phone:(989) 772-0911
Fax:(989) 779-8022
Monday - Friday 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Except holidays

Criminal Division

District Court

The District Court has exclusive jurisdiction over adult misdemeanor offenses and civil infractions (tickets).

In addition to its jurisdiction to try adult criminal offenses punishable by up to one year’s imprisonment, the District Court is the court in which all other adult criminal proceedings begin, regardless of the nature of the offense. In carrying out this function, the District Court has jurisdiction to issue arrest and search warrants, set bail and accept bond, and conduct misdemeanor and felony arraignments.

Circuit Court

The Circuit Court has jurisdiction over the trial of all felonies (offenses that can be punished by commitment to prison) and of those misdemeanors (offenses carrying a penalty of not more than twelve months in jail) originally charged in District Court.

gavel on official documents

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) 317-4218.

Video Arraignments

Most often, those in custody of the county jail will be arraigned by an interactive video system. These arraignments are usually conducted at 1:30 pm before the Magistrate and at 3:00 pm before the Judge. Visitors and observers are welcome to view these arraignments, but it is suggested that you call to verify time.

gavel on desk with computer
meeting with attorney

Retaining an Attorney

If you have been charged with a crime, you may want an attorney to represent you. You should make arrangements to hire an attorney prior to your first hearing. 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.

lawyer filling out paperwork
handing over a check

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.

Motions

If you wish to file a motion with the court, you must obtain a hearing date prior to submitting any documents. Hearing dates can be obtained by contacting the Assignment Clerk’s Office at 989.772.0911 x264 or x288. Please remember that court staff cannot give legal advice.

woman filling out form
law gavel

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) 317-4097 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.

paying with credit card online

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) 317-4097
Fax: (989) 779-8022

Accepted methods of payment

  • Cash -in person only (Do not mail cash)
  • Check / Money Order by mail or in person
  • Credit/Debit Card: Call AllPaid (toll free) 1-888-604-7888. The operator will ask a series of questions including case number and the amount you are paying. This is a private vendor, therefore, there is a fee to use their service. You may also pay by credit/debit card online at www.allpaid.com or by scanning the QR Code below.