On June 30, 2023, a new law went into effect in Michigan, which makes it illegal to use a handheld phone or other mobile electronic device while driving. This article will explain what is prohibited under this new law and the potential consequences for a violation....
A last will and testament can take many forms whether it is typed and prepared by the testator or drafted by an attorney. At a minimum, a will is valid in Michigan only if it has all of the following: It must be in writing. MCL 700.2502(1)(a). It must be...
State laws and local ordinances regulate the maximum permissible noises from a motor vehicle in Michigan so that residents will not be bothered or disturbed by the excessive sounds while they are working or at home. The noise limits in Michigan are the same...
Most churches will qualify for federal income tax exemption under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. However, there is a restriction on certain types of political activity that churches and other non-profit organizations can engage in to retain...
Domestic violence is a serious issue that complicates divorce proceedings in Michigan for several reasons. First, the abusive spouse usually exerts a disproportionate amount of influence over the victimized spouse due to emotional manipulation, financial...
To qualify as a juror in Michigan, a person must meet ALL of the following criteria: “Be a citizen of the United States, 18 years of age or older, and a resident in the county for which the person is selected…”. MCL 600.1307a(1)(a). “Be able to communicate in...
A notice of lis pendens is a legal document recorded in the chain of title to real property at the local register of deeds that gives notice to everyone that said property is the subject matter of a lawsuit. Specifically, it is designed to warn any potential...
On February 9, 2022, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed Public Acts 5 and 6 of 2022 into law to create the Michigan First-Time Home Buyer Savings Program. This program allows an individual to open a first-time home buyer savings account with a qualified...
The crime of extortion involves someone attempting to obtain something from another person through certain threats enumerated in the following statute: “Malicious threats to extort money—Any person who shall, either orally or by a written or printed...
Drug dealers often look to bring young and impressionable children into their illegal trade because they are easy to manipulate and are perceived as less detectable by law enforcement than adults. For that minor child that is recruited into the drug...
