michigan public court records: what to expect before you search

Where to look

Michigan courts offer online portals and in-person access at clerks’ offices. Start with the statewide case search provided by the judiciary, then check individual circuit, district, or probate court sites for local dockets. If a file is not online, a clerk can advise how to request copies and any per-page fees.

What you can and cannot see

Most civil, criminal, and appellate registers of actions are open to the public. However, juvenile, adoption, mental health, and sealed or expunged matters are restricted by court rule. Sensitive identifiers-like Social Security numbers and full financial account data-are redacted.

How to search efficiently

Have a precise name, case number, or date range. Spellings vary; try alternatives and confirm with birth year or filing county. Expect differences in update cycles between courts, and remember that online summaries are not the official record.

• Verify party names and case type before relying on results.
• Note the court level: district, circuit, probate, or appellate.
• Ask the clerk about certified copies and turnaround times.
• Review local administrative orders for onsite rules.