Michigan Warrants: Types, Searches, and What to Expect

A warrant is a document issued by a judge or magistrate that allows law enforcement officers to arrest an individual, search their property, or compel their appearance in court. Warrants ensure that all law enforcement actions are supported by probable cause and subject to all judicial laws.

What Is a Warrant in Michigan?

In Michigan, a warrant is a legal document that compels the police or sheriff to:

• Arrest an individual accused of a crime.
• Search and seize any property associated with an investigation.
• Force an individual to appear in court.

According to Michigan Court Rules, warrants are issued by judges or magistrates within the state’s District Courts and Circuit Courts.

Types of Warrants in Michigan

Michigan courts may issue several types of warrants, each serving a specific purpose. They include:

1. Arrest Warrants

A court may issue an arrest warrant, authorizing police to detain an individual. Such a warrant must be issued upon probable cause and includes the individual’s name and charges.

2. Bench Warrants

A bench warrant is issued when an individual fails to appear in court, violates their probation, or disobeys a court order. It authorizes officers to arrest the individual and arraign them before a court of law.

3. Search Warrants

A search warrant authorizes law enforcement to search and seize an individual’s property or enter another location where the crime occurred. Under the Michigan law, search warrants must describe the location of the property and the items sought.

4. Civil Warrants

In civil cases involving evictions, debt collection, and small claims matters, certain warrants are issued by the court. These are known as civil warrants, and they compel an individual to appear in court. It may result in liens, judgments, or wage garnishments.

5. Fugitive or Out-of-State Warrants

When an individual responsible for a crime in another state is found in Michigan, a fugitive warrant authorizes the detention of that individual until extradition proceedings are completed. The state may also issue warrants requesting other states to return wanted individuals, too.

How to Search for Warrants in Michigan

Warrant information in Michigan may include an individual’s name, case number, type of warrant, charges, issuing court, and any other bail details. Warrant information may be obtained through several official sources, including:

1. Michigan Courts Portal – The public may access many county court records through the Case Search Portal. These court records contain warrant information.
2. County Sheriff’s Offices – Most sheriffs’ offices maintain warrant records in their county. Wayne, Oakland, and Kent counties often provide inquiry services to the public.
3. Clerk of Court Offices – District and Circuit Court clerks maintain case records that may include warrant information. The public may visit their office to obtain a copy for a fee.
4. Local Police Departments – Police departments in major cities such as Detroit, Grand Rapids, and Lansing manage misdemeanor and warrants.
5. Michigan State Police (MSP) – The MSP maintains statewide criminal history records, including warrant information, which is accessible to the public.

Warrant Records in Major Michigan Cities and Counties

Warrant records in Michigan are county-based, and the processes are slightly different in all the counties. Examples include:

• Detroit (Wayne County) – Individuals may contact the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office or the 36th District Court for local warrants.
• Grand Rapids (Kent County) – Warrant information is available at the Kent County Sheriff’s Office and the 61st District Court.
• Ann Arbor (Washtenaw County) – The public may access warrant information from the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office and the county court clerk.

What Happens After a Warrant Is Issued in Michigan?

After a warrant is issued in Michigan, the outcome depends on the type of warrant:

• Arrest Warrants – A police officer may arrest an individual at any time. Once they arrest the individual, they are booked and appear before a judge or magistrate.
• Bench Warrants – Failure to appear or comply with court orders may result in immediate arrest and possible fines or jail time.
• Search Warrants – Law enforcement officers must execute these searches within 14 days, seizing only the items specified.
• Civil Warrants – These compel an individual to appear in court for civil matters. Failure to show up in court may lead to default judgments, liens, or wage garnishments.

How Long Does a Warrant Stay Active in Michigan?

In Michigan, most warrants remain valid until resolved. An overview is given below:

• Arrest and bench warrants do not expire. They remain enforceable until the individual is arrested or the court withdraws them.
• Search warrants expire within 14 days of issuance and must be reissued if not properly executed.
• Civil warrants remain valid until the underlying case is resolved or dismissed.

A warrant may be quashed if issued improperly, recalled once the subject complies with court requirements, or cleared when executed or resolved in court. Failure to resolve a warrant may lead to arrest during a routine traffic stop or even while traveling. It also leads to difficulties in employment opportunities.

Warrants are important tools in Michigan’s justice system, ensuring that arrests, searches, and court orders are conducted under judicial authority. Examples of common warrants in the state include arrest warrants, bench warrants, and civil warrants.

Michigan residents may search for warrants through their appropriate county sheriff’s offices, clerk of court offices, and court portals. Individuals with an outstanding warrant should consult an attorney or the court that issued the warrant. They must quickly address the matter to avoid unexpected arrest or penalties.