Going to Court in St. Clair County, MI

There is a lot on the line when you’ve been charged with a crime in St. Clair County, Michigan. You could lose your job, your freedom, and your reputation if not successfully resolved. It’s important to understand what is entailed in going to court there.

Fortunately, the criminal defense lawyers at Drias Law Group know all about going to court in St. Clair County. Veteran criminal defense lawyer Martin Drias will prepare you for what to expect, where to be, and what do when there. He will also fight for the very best outcome possible for your criminal case. His previous experience as a prosecutor gives his important insight into the process and how best to help.

Call us today at (313) 944-0236 for a free, confidential case consultation.

Courts in St. Clair County

Depending on your charges, your proceedings could be held in:

• A St. Clair County 72nd District Court, has jurisdiction over parking citations, traffic violations, criminal misdemeanors, preliminary examinations in felony cases, landlord tenant, small claims, and general civil cases of less than $25,000 in damages. Locations for district court include:
• Port Huron, which covers townships and cities listed here.
• Marine City, which covers townships and cities listed here.
• The St. Clair County 31st Judicial Circuit Court, in Port Huron, has jurisdiction in all felony criminal cases and some serious misdemeanors, civil cases involving more than $25,000.00, domestic relations cases, and appeals from district courts and administrative agencies.

The 72nd District Court and 31st Judicial Circuit Court share the same courthouse at 201 McMorran Blvd., in Port Huron. There are two nearby public visitor parking structures and on-street parking. Just a few blocks to the west are downtown businesses and restaurants. The district court also has a branch site in Marine City, at 2088 S. Parker Street. That location has its own parking onsite. Other than a nearby fast-food restaurant, other places to eat are a few miles to the north of the Marine City court location.

Make sure you know which court your proceeding is in and how to get there. Leave home in plenty of time in case there is traffic, parking issues, or bad weather. You want to arrive at least 20-30 minutes early. Your attorney may need to speak to you prior to court as well.

Prior to leaving home, take some care in selecting what you’ll wear. Dress appropriately. The circuit court has a dress policy with several prohibitions including shorts, slippers, sleeveless t-shirts, and spandex pants, among other things. It’s probably a good guide to what to avoid wearing to district court as well. Always be neat, clean, and well-groomed.

Don’t forget to remove any weapons, even if licensed, from your pockets or bags. Prohibited items also include sharp instruments. The circuit court has a detailed weapons policy that you can review if necessary.

When You Are There

Before you arrive, your defense attorney from Drias Law Group will let you know what to expect based on what kind of proceeding is scheduled. In addition, there are some general tips to always keep in mind when at your court appearance.

• Your manners matter. Show respect to all parties, no exceptions.
• Don’t talk. Your attorney or the Court will tell you when to speak.
• Keep your body still. Don’t fidget and your facial expressions should be neutral.
• Listen to your defense attorney. That’s why you hired one!
• Afterwards, don’t run off. Plan on meeting with your counsel after your appearance to discuss next steps.

If You’re Going to Court, You’ll Want Us with You

Anytime you are dealing with the judicial system the matter is serious, especially if you have been charged with a crime. It is no time to try to figure it out on your own or represent yourself. There’s simply too much on the line. When you’re required to go to court, you need defense counsel. Drias Law Group understands the seriousness of a criminal charge and the effect it could have on your life. Our firm has experience defending clients against criminal charges in St. Clair County, Michigan and we can help.

Contact Drias Law Group today at (313) 944-0236 for a free case consultation.