Criminal Court Records in Livingston County

Livingston County criminal court records are kept at the County Clerk's Office in Howell. The 44th Circuit Court handles felony cases, while the 53rd District Court covers misdemeanors. This page explains how to search records, request copies, and find the right office for your case.

Livingston County Clerk's Office

The Livingston County Clerk's Office at 304 E. Grand River Ave. in Howell is where felony criminal court records are stored and accessed. The clerk manages all 44th Circuit Court filings. For misdemeanor records, the 53rd District Court at 204 S. Highlander Way handles those cases. Both locations are in Howell. Call (517) 546-3150 to reach the clerk's office.

Livingston County has grown fast over the past few decades and now sits between the Detroit metro area and Lansing. The county has a well-staffed clerk's office that handles a significant volume of criminal filings. Staff can look up cases by name or case number and process copy requests. Call ahead to ask whether an appointment is required before visiting in person. The county website at livingstoncountymi.gov covers all departments and services.

How to Search Livingston County Criminal Records

Livingston County criminal court records can be searched online through MiCOURT or in person at the courthouse. Online searches are a fast way to check whether a case exists. In-person visits let you view the full file and get certified copies the same day.

Use the free MiCOURT case search from the Michigan Supreme Court to look up cases by name or case number. It covers Livingston County courts and shows case status, docket entries, and hearing dates. Below is a screenshot of the MiCOURT interface.

MiCOURT gives you basic information fast. For full documents and certified copies, you need to go to the clerk in person or send a written request. Bring your ID when you visit. Staff can pull records by name and tell you what fees apply before you pay.

Mail requests should go to 304 E. Grand River Ave., Howell, MI 48843. Include the name of the person, an approximate filing date, and a check or money order for the fee. The clerk will contact you if more is needed before sending copies. Allow several business days for processing.

Livingston County Record Fees

Livingston County uses the Michigan standard fee schedule for court records. Plain copies run $1.00 per page. Certified copies cost $10.00 for the first one and $5.00 for each additional. Pay the clerk in person or include payment in your mail request.

For a statewide background check, use the ICHAT tool from the Michigan State Police. The fee is $10 per name. ICHAT covers arrests and convictions across all Michigan jurisdictions, not just Livingston County. It is separate from the clerk's records. You register online and pay by credit or debit card.

Under MCL 15.234, the first $20 of FOIA fees may be waived for people who qualify as indigent. Court record fees follow different rules. Ask the clerk about waiver procedures if needed.

Note: Certified copies are required for most official uses like employment applications, licensing, and court filings. Plain copies work for personal reference only.

Online Tools for Livingston Records

Several state-level tools work for Livingston County residents. These tools are free or low-cost and available from home. Use them before contacting the clerk for official records.

The Michigan Courts website lists all courts in Livingston County with contact details and links. Michigan Legal Help has step-by-step guides on how to request criminal records and understand the process. The MiFILE e-filing system handles electronic submissions for active cases in courts that participate. Check the available courts list to see whether the 44th Circuit Court or 53rd District Court is listed. The MSP FOIA portal handles Michigan State Police record requests separately from court records.

FOIA vs. Court Records in Livingston County

Court records held by the Livingston County Clerk are not subject to the Freedom of Information Act. Under MCR 8.119, court case files are accessed through the clerk's office. FOIA under MCL 15.231 applies to records from government agencies like the sheriff's office or local police.

If you want a police report or sheriff's incident report from a Livingston County case, submit a FOIA request to that specific agency. The Livingston County Sheriff has its own FOIA process. The standard response time is 5 business days. Fees of $0.10 to $1.00 per page apply along with potential labor charges. Under MCL 15.234, the first $20 may be waived for qualifying individuals.

Criminal history as defined under MCL 28.241a is public information. Felony arrests, charges, and convictions are accessible through the clerk or ICHAT. Sealed records and juvenile records are exceptions. If a record is restricted, the clerk will let you know.

Legal Help in Livingston County

Residents of Livingston County can access legal help through several nearby organizations. Legal Aid of Mid-Michigan covers several counties in the region. Call to check eligibility and availability. Michigan Legal Help has free self-help tools online for people who are navigating the court system without a lawyer. The State Bar of Michigan runs a referral service that can connect you with a licensed attorney who handles criminal records, expungements, or related matters. Many attorneys serve Livingston County clients and are familiar with the 44th Circuit Court. A first consultation is often available at a reduced cost.

Cities in Livingston County

Livingston County has no qualifying cities with dedicated pages on this site. Howell is the county seat. Criminal cases from across Livingston County, including Brighton, Fowlerville, and Pinckney, are handled through the 44th Circuit Court and the clerk's office in Howell.

Nearby Counties

Livingston County sits between metro Detroit and Lansing. Several busy counties are nearby. Check the right clerk's office for cases in those areas.