What Is The Role Of The Grand Rapids Family Court?

The Circuit Court has jurisdiction over all civil cases involving more than $25, 000, criminal cases where the offense is a felony or a serious misdemeanor, domestic relations cases, and child abuse, neglect, and delinquency cases. Family matters include custody, divorce, paternity, and child support cases. Circuit Courts also handle appeals from District Courts and some administrative agencies. Judges of the Circuit Court are responsible for filing for divorce, other family matters, and civil actions where the amount of damages exceeds $25, 000 or other.

The court has the power to terminate the relationship between the parties regardless of who did what to whom. Fault does play a role in the court’s determination of child custody. The Kent County Friend of the Court completes court-ordered custody and parenting time investigations. Court records are documents generated during legal proceedings, such as criminal case files, bankruptcy records, and records from family or probate court.

A Michigan program protecting kids and aiming to end multigenerational abuse is expanding, known as a baby court, a specialized component of the judicial system. Family courts focus on handling family dynamics and domestic relationships, addressing and resolving sensitive issues that affect family structures. They give couples latitude to resolve child custody issues together, but if they cannot, their decision will be based on what the court determines.

The Family Court (FOC) employees are court employees tasked with enforcing child support orders and custody orders. With over 38, 000 cases, the FOC handles various family law matters, including divorce, child support, family law, custody disputes, and paternity cases. The FOC investigates and issues recommendations on custody, parenting time, child support, and medical support.

What Does A Circuit Court Do?

Circuit Courts serve as trial courts in the United States, addressing civil cases with claims exceeding $25, 000, all felony criminal matters, personal protection orders, and family matters. They also hear appeals from District Courts and select administrative agencies. The First Circuit Court of Appeals reviews federal appeals, assessing cases from circuit courts within its jurisdiction, with decisions potentially appealable to the U. S. Supreme Court.

The U. S. comprises 13 circuits, each represented by a U. S. Circuit Court of Appeals. Circuit Courts possess general jurisdiction, enabling them to hear diverse civil and criminal cases and to review decisions from lower courts if a party disagrees with the initial ruling.

The role of a court clerk is crucial, managing court records and assisting in various administrative tasks within the judiciary. Circuit Courts generally preside over serious criminal and major civil cases, performing essential functions such as jury trials and handling family law matters like divorce and custody. The Judiciary Act of 1789 established a system of circuit courts for federal criminal cases and civil suits between states. As intermediate appellate courts, Circuit Courts occupy a vital position within the judicial system, ensuring justice across multiple jurisdictions by overseeing a broad spectrum of legal matters.

How Do I Pay For Friend Of The Court In Grand Rapids?

You can pay the Friend of the Court in Grand Rapids via a certified check or money order placed in the drop box at 82 Ionia Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. Alternatively, send your payment by mail to: Friend of the Court, PO Box 351, Grand Rapids, MI 49501-0351. Payments can also be made in person at the FOC lobby window or through the drop box. Accepted forms of payment are cash (at the lobby window), money orders, or certified checks made out to Kent County Friend of the Court, with "file access" noted. The cost for a complete file is $10. 00. The drop box for documents and non-cash payments is located on the first floor of the building.

If you need to approve orders, visit the FOC office with your documents before your hearing, and speak to a clerk. Note that no credit card payments are accepted in person or via mail. Payment options include electronic payments through MiSDU. com. The FOC is dedicated to assisting the Family Court with matters related to child support and custody. For any questions or additional information about the Friend of the Court, you can reach out via phone. If access to records is denied, you may file a motion with the assigned judge or chief judge.