Muskegon County Court Records
What Is Muskegon County Court Records
Court records in Muskegon County encompass all official documentation generated during legal proceedings within the county's court system. Pursuant to Michigan Court Rule 8.119, court records include case files, registers of actions, calendars, indexes, and court journals maintained by the clerk of the court. These records document the complete history of legal matters processed through the county's judicial system.
Court records typically contain:
- Case files with pleadings, motions, and briefs
- Court orders and judgments
- Hearing and trial transcripts
- Evidence and exhibits admitted during proceedings
- Docket sheets documenting case chronology
- Sentencing information in criminal matters
- Settlement agreements in civil cases
The Muskegon County court system maintains records across multiple jurisdictions, including:
- 14th Circuit Court (felony criminal cases, civil cases over $25,000, family division matters)
- 60th District Court (misdemeanors, civil cases under $25,000, landlord-tenant disputes)
- Muskegon County Probate Court (estates, guardianships, mental health proceedings)
Court records differ from other public records such as property records (maintained by the Register of Deeds) and vital records like birth and death certificates (maintained by the County Clerk). Under the Michigan Court Records Management Standards, court records must be maintained according to specific retention schedules based on case type and disposition.
Are Court Records Public In Muskegon County
Court records in Muskegon County are generally accessible to the public in accordance with Michigan's court rules and the state's commitment to judicial transparency. Under Michigan Court Rule 8.119(H), court records are presumed to be open for public inspection unless specifically restricted by statute, court rule, or court order.
The following court records are typically available for public access:
- Civil case files and judgments
- Criminal case records (post-arraignment)
- Probate proceedings
- Docket sheets and case indexes
- Court calendars and hearing schedules
- Final judgments and orders
However, certain records may be restricted from public view pursuant to MCL § 600.2950h and other applicable statutes. These restrictions typically apply to:
- Records sealed by court order
- Juvenile proceedings (except when a juvenile is tried as an adult)
- Adoption records
- Mental health commitment proceedings
- Personal identifying information such as Social Security numbers
- Victim information in certain criminal cases
- Records subject to attorney-client privilege
The Michigan Supreme Court has established comprehensive rules governing public access to court records through Administrative Order 1989-1, which balances the public's right to information with privacy concerns and the effective administration of justice.
How To Find Court Records in Muskegon County in 2026
Members of the public seeking court records in Muskegon County may utilize several methods to locate and access these documents. The county maintains both physical and digital repositories of court records that are currently available through the following channels:
In-Person Requests:
- Identify the appropriate court where the case was filed
- Visit the court clerk's office during regular business hours
- Complete a records request form providing case number, party names, or filing dates
- Present valid photo identification
- Pay applicable copy fees ($1.00 per page for standard copies)
- Allow processing time for record retrieval
Online Access:
- Access the Michigan Courts Case Search portal
- Create a user account if required
- Enter search criteria (case number, party name, filing date)
- Review available case information
- Request specific documents if available electronically
- Pay any applicable online access fees
Written Requests:
- Prepare a written request including case information and specific documents needed
- Include contact information and preferred delivery method
- Enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope for return delivery
- Mail request to the appropriate court clerk's office
- Include payment for applicable fees (check or money order)
For certified copies of court records, requestors must specifically indicate this requirement and pay additional certification fees. Pursuant to MCL § 600.2546, the fee for certification is $10 per document in addition to copy fees.
How To Look Up Court Records in Muskegon County Online?
Muskegon County court records can be accessed through several online platforms maintained by the Michigan judiciary. These digital resources provide varying levels of case information depending on the court and case type.
The primary online resources include:
MiCOURT Case Search Portal: This centralized system provides access to case information from multiple courts in Muskegon County.
- Navigate to the MiCOURT Case Search website
- Select Muskegon County from the jurisdiction dropdown
- Enter search criteria (case number, party name, business name)
- Select case type if known (civil, criminal, probate)
- Review search results showing basic case information
- Access available documents if electronically filed
Michigan Courts Case Search: For appellate cases and certain circuit court matters:
- Visit the Michigan Courts Case Search portal
- Select the appropriate court (Supreme Court, Court of Appeals, or Circuit Court)
- Enter case number or party name
- Filter results by date range if needed
- View case summaries, opinions, and orders
MiFILE System: For electronic filing and document access:
- Access the MiFILE portal
- Create or log in to user account
- Search for cases where you are a party or attorney
- View electronically filed documents
- Download available case documents
The online systems typically provide:
- Case numbers and filing dates
- Party names and attorney information
- Register of actions (docket entries)
- Scheduled hearing dates
- Case status and disposition information
- Selected court orders and judgments
For complete case files or older records not available online, in-person requests remain necessary at the respective court clerk's office.
How To Search Muskegon County Court Records for Free?
Muskegon County residents and other interested parties may access certain court records without payment through several channels, in accordance with Michigan's commitment to public access to judicial information. Under MCL § 600.2546, courts may charge reasonable fees for copies but must allow free inspection of public records.
Free In-Person Inspection:
- Visit the appropriate court clerk's office during regular business hours
- Request to view specific case files using case number or party names
- Present identification if required
- Review records in designated public viewing area
- Take notes as needed (photography may be restricted)
Free Online Resources:
- Basic case information is available without charge through the MiCOURT Case Search portal
- Limited docket information can be viewed without payment
- Case status, party names, and hearing dates are typically accessible at no cost
- Court calendars may be viewed online without fees
Public Access Terminals:
- Computer terminals at courthouse locations provide free access to electronic court records
- Available during regular business hours at:
Muskegon County 14th Circuit Court
990 Terrace Street
Muskegon, MI 49442
(231) 724-6251
Muskegon County Circuit Court
Muskegon County 60th District Court
990 Terrace Street
Muskegon, MI 49442
(231) 724-6283
Muskegon County District Court
While inspection is free, fees apply for copies of documents ($1.00 per page), certified copies ($10.00 certification fee plus copy costs), and certain specialized searches. Electronic access to complete case files may require subscription fees or per-document charges through third-party providers.
What's Included in a Muskegon County Court Record?
Court records in Muskegon County contain comprehensive documentation of legal proceedings, with contents varying by case type and court jurisdiction. Pursuant to Michigan Court Rule 8.119, court records must include specific components to document the complete history of each case.
Civil Case Records Typically Include:
- Complaint and summons
- Defendant's answer or response
- Motions and supporting briefs
- Discovery documents (if filed with the court)
- Affidavits and witness statements
- Exhibits admitted into evidence
- Court orders and judgments
- Transcripts of hearings and trials
- Settlement agreements (if not sealed)
- Appeals documentation
Criminal Case Records Typically Include:
- Charging documents (complaint, information, or indictment)
- Arrest warrant or summons
- Arraignment records
- Bond/bail information
- Pretrial motions and orders
- Plea agreements
- Trial transcripts
- Verdict forms
- Sentencing information
- Probation reports (may be restricted)
- Appeals documentation
Probate Court Records Typically Include:
- Petitions for probate or guardianship
- Wills and testamentary documents
- Inventories of estate assets
- Claims against estates
- Guardian/conservator reports
- Court orders regarding estate distribution
- Mental health commitment proceedings (access restricted)
- Adoption records (access restricted)
Family Division Records Typically Include:
- Divorce petitions and judgments
- Child custody and support orders
- Parenting time schedules
- Property division agreements
- Personal protection orders
- Paternity determinations
- Name change petitions
Each court record also contains a register of actions (docket sheet) that chronologically lists all events in the case, including filings, hearings, and issuance of orders. Case files may also include correspondence between the court and parties, proof of service documents, and financial records related to court costs and fees.
How Long Does Muskegon County Keep Court Records?
Muskegon County courts maintain records according to retention schedules established by the Michigan Supreme Court through the State Court Administrative Office. These schedules, authorized under MCL § 399.811, specify minimum retention periods based on case type and disposition.
Circuit Court Record Retention:
- Felony cases resulting in conviction: 50 years after judgment
- Felony cases resulting in acquittal: 10 years after judgment
- Civil cases: 10 years after case closure
- Domestic relations cases: 30 years after judgment
- Personal protection orders: 5 years after expiration
- Appeals from lower courts: 25 years after judgment
District Court Record Retention:
- Misdemeanor convictions: 20 years after judgment
- Civil cases: 10 years after case closure
- Traffic violations: 7 years after judgment
- Small claims: 10 years after judgment
- Landlord-tenant cases: 10 years after judgment
Probate Court Record Retention:
- Decedent estates: 10 years after closing
- Guardianships: 10 years after termination
- Conservatorships: 10 years after termination
- Mental health proceedings: 20 years after case closure
- Adoption records: Permanent retention
Special Retention Categories:
- Capital felony cases: Permanent retention
- Cases of historical significance: Permanent retention
- Cases establishing precedent: Permanent retention
- Court journals and indexes: Permanent retention
After the required retention period expires, records may be destroyed according to procedures outlined in the Michigan Trial Court Records Management Standards. However, many older records may be transferred to the State Archives of Michigan for historical preservation rather than being destroyed.
Digital conversion has allowed some older paper records to be scanned and maintained electronically beyond the required retention periods. Researchers seeking historical court records should contact both the court clerk and the State Archives when searching for cases beyond the standard retention periods.
Types of Courts In Muskegon County
Muskegon County's judicial system consists of several courts with distinct jurisdictions and authority. Each court handles specific types of cases as defined by Michigan law.
14th Circuit Court
990 Terrace Street
Muskegon, MI 49442
(231) 724-6251
Muskegon County Circuit Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
The Circuit Court is Muskegon County's court of general jurisdiction, handling felony criminal cases, civil matters involving claims over $25,000, and family division cases including divorce, child custody, and juvenile matters.
60th District Court
990 Terrace Street
Muskegon, MI 49442
(231) 724-6283
Muskegon County District Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
The District Court handles misdemeanor criminal cases, civil matters under $25,000, landlord-tenant disputes, small claims (up to $6,500), and preliminary examinations for felony cases.
Muskegon County Probate Court
990 Terrace Street
Muskegon, MI 49442
(231) 724-6241
Muskegon County Probate Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
The Probate Court handles estates and trusts, guardianships and conservatorships, mental health commitments, and adoption proceedings.
Michigan Court of Appeals - 3rd District (Appeals from Muskegon County)
350 Ottawa NW
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
(616) 456-1167
Michigan Court of Appeals
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
The Court of Appeals hears appeals from Circuit and Probate Court decisions in Muskegon County.
Michigan Supreme Court (Final appellate authority)
Hall of Justice
925 W. Ottawa Street
Lansing, MI 48915
(517) 373-0120
Michigan Supreme Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
The Michigan Supreme Court is the state's highest court and has discretionary authority to hear appeals from the Court of Appeals.
This hierarchical structure allows cases to progress from lower courts to higher courts through the appeals process, with the Michigan Supreme Court having final authority on matters of state law.
What Types of Cases Do Muskegon County Courts Hear?
Muskegon County's court system processes a diverse range of legal matters, with each court having specific jurisdictional authority as established by Michigan law. Case assignments follow statutory guidelines that determine which court has proper authority to hear particular matters.
14th Circuit Court Cases:
- Felony criminal prosecutions (crimes punishable by more than one year imprisonment)
- Civil lawsuits with claims exceeding $25,000
- Real property disputes and land title cases
- Divorce and annulment proceedings
- Child custody and parenting time determinations
- Child support and spousal support matters
- Paternity establishment
- Personal protection orders
- Juvenile delinquency proceedings
- Child abuse and neglect cases
- Appeals from District Court and administrative agency decisions
60th District Court Cases:
- Misdemeanor criminal cases (punishable by up to one year in jail)
- Civil lawsuits with claims up to $25,000
- Small claims cases (up to $6,500)
- Landlord-tenant disputes and eviction proceedings
- Land contract forfeitures
- Traffic violations and civil infractions
- Preliminary examinations in felony cases
- Personal protection order violations
- Ordinance violations
- Garnishments and judgment collections
Muskegon County Probate Court Cases:
- Decedent estate administration
- Will contests and trust disputes
- Guardianships for minors and incapacitated adults
- Conservatorships for estates of protected individuals
- Mental health commitment proceedings
- Adoption matters
- Name change petitions
- Emancipation of minors
- Developmental disability guardianships
Case assignment between courts is governed by MCL § 600.601 (Circuit Court jurisdiction), MCL § 600.8301 (District Court jurisdiction), and MCL § 700.1302 (Probate Court jurisdiction). In certain circumstances, cases may be transferred between courts when jurisdictional requirements change or when consolidation of related matters serves judicial efficiency.
How To Find a Court Docket In Muskegon County
Court dockets in Muskegon County provide chronological listings of scheduled hearings, filings, and other case events. These records are essential for tracking case progress and determining upcoming court dates. Members of the public may access docket information through several methods.
Online Docket Access:
- Visit the MiCOURT Case Search portal
- Select Muskegon County from the jurisdiction menu
- Enter search criteria (case number, party name, or attorney)
- Review the register of actions (docket entries) for the case
- Note scheduled hearing dates and times
- Check filing deadlines and document submission dates
In-Person Docket Review:
- Visit the clerk's office for the appropriate court:
Muskegon County 14th Circuit Court Clerk
990 Terrace Street
Muskegon, MI 49442
(231) 724-6251
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Muskegon County 60th District Court Clerk
990 Terrace Street
Muskegon, MI 49442
(231) 724-6283
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
- Request to view the docket for a specific case
- Provide case number or party names
- Review docket information at public terminals or printed reports
Court Calendar Information:
- Check the Muskegon County Courts website for published court calendars
- Visit the courthouse to view posted daily calendars near courtrooms
- Contact the court clerk's office by phone for hearing schedule information
For specialized dockets such as drug court, mental health court, or veterans court, contact the specific program coordinator through the Circuit Court administration office. Daily court calendars are typically posted by 4:30 PM for the following day's proceedings.
Pursuant to Michigan Court Rule 8.119(D), courts must maintain a case history for all actions, which serves as the official docket record. This information must be made available for public inspection unless specifically restricted by statute or court rule.
Which Courts in Muskegon County Are Not Courts of Record?
In Michigan's judicial system, courts are designated as either "courts of record" or "courts not of record" based on statutory provisions and the requirement to maintain verbatim transcripts of proceedings. This distinction affects appeal procedures and record-keeping requirements.
Under MCL § 600.8101, all District Courts in Michigan, including the 60th District Court in Muskegon County, are established as courts of record. Similarly, the 14th Circuit Court and Muskegon County Probate Court are courts of record pursuant to MCL § 600.1401 and MCL § 600.801 respectively.
Currently, Muskegon County has no courts classified as "not of record." However, certain proceedings within the established courts may have modified record-keeping requirements:
-
Small Claims Division of the 60th District Court: While technically part of a court of record, small claims proceedings are informal and typically conducted without court reporters. Appeals from small claims decisions require a complete rehearing (trial de novo) in the Circuit Court rather than a review of the record.
-
Informal Probate Proceedings: Certain uncontested probate matters may be handled through administrative processes with simplified record-keeping requirements.
A court of record is characterized by:
- Proceedings recorded verbatim by court reporters or electronic means
- Maintenance of complete case files with all pleadings and orders
- Appeals based on review of the official record
- Authority to punish contempt committed in the court's presence
The designation of all Muskegon County courts as courts of record ensures that comprehensive documentation is maintained for all judicial proceedings, providing a complete basis for appellate review and historical preservation of legal decisions.
Lookup Court Records in Muskegon County
Muskegon County Court Records Portal
Michigan Electronic Filing System