Cavanagh Named President-Elect of State Chief Justices
Michigan Chief Justice Megan K. Cavanagh will lead the Conference of Chief Justices, the national association of state high court leaders.
Michigan Criminal Justice News
For readers in Michigan, this page covers courts, sentencing, prisons, bail, prosecution and criminal justice reform. Reporting monitors the state justice system and the legislative changes that affect its operations.
Recent news
November 5, 2026
Michigan Courts Test Informal Domestic Relations DocketFour West Michigan circuit courts will pilot a simplified process for domestic relations cases backed by a federal grant.
October 29, 2026
Court Reverses Habeas Ruling for Michigan Murder ConvictA federal appellate court has overturned a district court decision that previously granted Franklyn Garrison a habeas petition.
October 29, 2026
Court Dismisses Felony Charge Against Beau ParmenterA judge dropped a larceny charge against the Michigan lieutenant governor candidate before his scheduled court hearing.
October 28, 2026
Michigan to Launch New Prisoner Classification Pilot SystemThe Michigan Department of Corrections will implement a data-driven classification system in select facilities starting December 1, 2026.
October 27, 2026
Michigan Voters to Elect Supreme Court Justices November 3Six candidates from three political parties are vying for two seats on the Michigan Supreme Court.
October 21, 2026
Advocate Seeks Posthumous Pardon for Maurice CarterDoug Tjapkes has formally asked Governor Gretchen Whitmer to grant a posthumous pardon for the late Maurice Carter.
October 20, 2026
Michigan Pharmacist Seeks New Medical Fraud TrialA Michigan pharmacist is appealing a fraud conviction, claiming government interference with a defense witness.
October 13, 2026
Farid Fata Filed Motion for Compassionate ReleaseThe convicted former oncologist requested early release from his 45-year federal prison sentence.
October 10, 2026
Advocate Requested Posthumous Pardon for Maurice CarterDoug Tjapkes has petitioned Governor Gretchen Whitmer to officially exonerate the wrongfully convicted man.
October 9, 2026
Michigan Supreme Court Barred Former Judge From OfficeThe court adopted sanctions following misconduct findings against Jackson County judge Thomas Wilson.
More in Criminal Justice
Michigan reporting spans state court rulings, sentencing trends, legislative changes to the penal code and the management of state correctional facilities. It reaches from the capital to the rural counties where judicial and detention systems operate. Local prosecutorial policies and the application of statewide sentencing guidelines create significant variation in how the law is applied across different jurisdictions. Caseload management and the costs of incarceration remain the primary factors shaping legislative and administrative debate.