Legal Question in Criminal Law in Michigan

Out-of-state resident required to appear in Michigan court for a misdemeanor?

I am an Illinois resident that was recently ticketed in Michigan for having an open container of alchohol as a passenger in a moving vehicle. I posted a $50 bond on the spot to prevent spending the night in jail and the officer said to contact the court to pay the remaining cost ($50 more). I contacted the court to see if I could pay the rest via mail to cover the offense and they said I need to show up for court. I want to know if it is possible to mail in a guilty verdict instead of having to go all the way back to Michigan to do it in person. The information given to me by the arresting officer and the court employee were conflicting, so I want an attorney's opinion and advice.


Asked on 11/17/08, 11:54 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Michael R. Nack Michael R. Nack, Attorney at Law

Re: Out-of-state resident required to appear in Michigan court for a misdemeanor?

I would suggest that you contact an attorney who handles criminal or traffic matters in the specific location in Michigan where you received your ticket. I would also say that I have had many people misinformed by police officers, intentionally or not. I have also had clients misinformed by court clerks. If a personal appearance in Court is normally required a local attorney may be able to appear for you. Good luck.

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Answered on 11/18/08, 12:15 am


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