Grosse Pointe Farms Municipal Court

You must be vigilant to protect your rights if you face criminal charges in Grosse Point Farms. If you are not careful, you may find that you face penalties that you could have avoided.

Misdemeanor and Felony Charges in the Grosse Pointe Farms Municipal Court

The Grosse Pointe Farms Municipal Court handles misdemeanors, civil infractions, and preliminary hearings for felony cases. It also oversees traffic violations, civil lawsuits, landlord-tenant disputes, and small claims matters. This court serves the cities of Grosse Pointe Farms, Grosse Pointe Park, and Grosse Pointe City.

Because of the community’s affluence and emphasis on order, judges and prosecutors in this court expect defendants to show accountability, respect, and preparedness. Court proceedings tend to move quickly, and judges have a reputation for conservative, no-nonsense rulings.

Location and Contact Information

Grosse Pointe Farms Municipal Court
90 Kerby Road Grosse Pointe Farms, MI 48236
Phone: (313) 885-2104
Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Types of Cases Heard in Grosse Pointe Farms

The court handles criminal and civil matters. Examples include:

Criminal misdemeanors and felonies
Civil infractions (traffic violations)
Civil lawsuits
Landlord-tenant matters
Small claims cases

Common Charges in Grosse Pointe Farms

The Grosse Pointe Farms Municipal Court handles criminal charges arising within its geographical jurisdiction. The Court conducts arraignments for felony and misdemeanor criminal charges. Additionally, the court handles felony preliminary examinations and probable cause hearings. For misdemeanors, the Court presides over the entire prosecution, including pretrials, motions, plea hearings, trials, and sentencing hearings.

Misdemeanor Offenses:

Misdemeanor offenses commonly prosecuted in the Grosse Pointe Farms Municipal Court include:

Retail fraud (Shoplifting)
Operating while intoxicated (OWI)
Assault and battery
Driving while license suspended (DWLS)
Disorderly conduct
Possession of drug paraphernalia or small quantities
Reckless Driving and Operating with a Suspended License

Felony Offenses:

Common felony charges in Wayne County include:

Domestic violence causing serious injury
Felonious assault
Drug distribution or trafficking
Child Pornography (SCAM) and Accosting a Minor for an Immoral Purpose
Homicide
White-Collar Crimes, such as embezzlement and fraud

If the court finds probable cause during a felony preliminary exam, the judge binds the case over to the Wayne County Circuit Court in Detroit for further proceedings.

Arraignments and Bond Hearings

At the arraignment, the judge reads the charges, sets the bond, and imposes any release conditions. Personal bonds are common in most misdemeanor cases, but the court can issue cash or surety bonds if there is concern about safety or flight risk.

Having an experienced attorney at this stage can help reduce the bond amount and avoid restrictive conditions.

Probation Violations

The Grosse Pointe Farms Municipal Court takes probation seriously. Probation violations for missed appointments, failed drug or alcohol tests, or new charges can result in jail, extended probation, or additional conditions. At a probation violation hearing, a lawyer can help present mitigating information and persuade the judge to allow continued supervision instead of jail.

Pretrial Hearings and Motions

Most misdemeanor cases include one or more pretrial hearings. At these hearings, lawyers can negotiate plea agreements, request evidence, or file motions. Typical motions include requests to dismiss charges or suppress unlawfully obtained evidence.

If the case proceeds to trial, the defendant can choose between a bench trial and a jury trial. The Grosse Pointe Farms Municipal Court expects all motions and pleadings to be submitted on time and in proper form.

Sentencing and Resolution

If a person pleads guilty or is found guilty, the court will schedule a sentencing hearing. The judge can impose:

Jail time
Fines and costs
Probation
Counseling or treatment
Community service

The sentence depends on the severity of the offense, the person’s record, and any steps taken toward rehabilitation. Letters of support, proof of employment, or voluntary counseling can help reduce penalties.

Experienced and Effective Criminal Defense in Grosse Pointe Farms Municipal Court

The judge in Grosse Pointe Farms expects defendants to be prepared, respectful, and honest. They do not tolerate excuses or delay tactics. Trying to handle a criminal case alone is risky. Even a misdemeanor conviction can have serious, long-lasting consequences. A skilled defense lawyer with LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. can negotiate with prosecutors, argue for reduced charges, and protect your rights throughout the process.

If you or someone you care about has a case in the Grosse Pointe Farms Municipal Court, do not take chances. An experienced lawyer gives you the best shot at avoiding jail, reducing charges, and moving on with your life.

Call us today at (248) 263-6800 for a free consultation or complete an online Request for Assistance Form. We will contact you promptly and find a way to help you.