For most families, a call from police or a notice that their child has been taken into custody is their first encounter with Michigan’s juvenile justice system. The process that follows is governed by the Juvenile Code, MCL 712A.1 et seq., and the Michigan Court Rules, particularly subchapter MCR 3.900. It involves a series of hearings and decisions that can unfold rapidly and have consequences that persist long after the case is closed. Detroit juvenile defense attorney William Maze guides families through every step of the Wayne County Family Division process, ensuring that your child’s rights are protected and that you understand what is happening and why.

The juvenile court process typically begins when a complaint or petition is filed alleging that a minor has committed a delinquent act. Before a petition is authorized, the court may conduct a preliminary inquiry to determine whether formal action is necessary or whether a diversion option, such as the consent calendar under MCL 712A.2f, is more appropriate. If the court authorizes a petition on the formal calendar, the juvenile must be advised of the right to counsel, the right against self-incrimination, the right to trial by judge or jury, and the standard of proof beyond a reasonable doubt, as required by MCL 712A.17c(1) and MCR 3.915(A)(1). From there, the case proceeds through a probable cause hearing, an adjudicatory hearing, and, if the juvenile is found responsible, a disposition hearing at which the court determines the appropriate consequences.

Detention is a critical issue throughout the juvenile court process. Michigan law permits pretrial detention only under specific circumstances enumerated in MCR 3.935(D)(1), including situations where the offense is so serious that release would endanger public safety, where the juvenile is likely to commit another offense pending trial, or where home conditions make detention necessary. Before a juvenile may be placed in a secure facility pending hearing, an individual or agency designated by the court must administer a detention screening tool under MCL 712A.15(3), and the court must consult its results before ordering detention. Attorney Maze contests detention at every available hearing and advocates for the least restrictive placement consistent with both the juvenile’s interests and public safety.

The disposition phase of a juvenile case is where the court determines what happens to the minor after an adjudication of responsibility. The Family Division has broad discretionary authority at disposition, including the ability to place the juvenile on probation, order community service, require participation in treatment programs, place the juvenile with the Department of Health and Human Services, or, in designated proceedings, impose an adult sentence. Michigan law requires the court to favor the least restrictive environment, as defined in MCL 712A.1(1)(j), unless public safety requires a more restrictive placement. Attorney Maze prepares comprehensive mitigation packages for disposition hearings, presenting educational records, mental health evaluations, family support information, and community resources to support the most favorable outcome for your child.