Michigan Senate Bill SB0429

Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/17/25
• Refer: 6/17/25

Caption

Courts: other; Antrim County trial court system; establish. Amends secs. 810a, 8151 & 8176 of 1961 PA 236 (MCL 600.810a et seq.) & adds sec. 8165.

Impact

If enacted, this bill will modify the current statutory framework to explicitly address judicial jurisdictions and allow probate judges in Antrim County—and others as defined—additional duties previously reserved for district judges. This may improve access to justice in these regions, ensuring that matters typically handled by district judges can continue to be addressed without significant delays or barriers due to the absence of such judges.

Summary

Senate Bill 429 proposes amendments to the Revised Judicature Act of 1961, specifically targeting the structure and jurisdiction of district courts in Michigan. The bill aims to officially designate the probate judge of Antrim County with the powers of a district judge, thereby extending the jurisdiction of probate judges in various specified counties, allowing them to function as district judges. This change is intended to streamline the judicial process in areas where district court judges are no longer present or have been eliminated, thereby maintaining judicial services within those counties.

Contention

While supporters argue that this amendment will provide much-needed judicial continuity and accessibility in counties experiencing a shortage of district judges, there may be concerns regarding the adequacy of judges' training and their workload. Critics could express apprehension regarding the potential dilution of distinct roles between probate and district judges, as this change amalgamates responsibilities that are historically delineated. Additionally, the political implications of appointing probate judges with district judge responsibilities might lead to discussions about equitable judicial representation and resource allocation across Michigan's judicial system.