29th Judicial Circuit Court
The 29th Judicial Circuit consists of both Clinton and Gratiot Counties. Hon. Michelle M. Rick is on the bench in Clinton County the first two weeks of each month while Hon. Randy L. Tahvonen is in Gratiot County. The last two weeks of each month, Judge Tahvonen takes the bench in Clinton County while Judge Rick is in Gratiot County.
In Gratiot County, motion days are held on Mondays with Judge Tahvonen's motion days on the 1st and 3rd Monday of each month and Judge Rick's motion days on the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month. There may be exceptions due to holidays and vacation schedules. To schedule motions, call the Assignment Clerk for a date and time and mail your motion and Notice of Hearing to the Gratiot County Clerk's Office. Judge Rick does require judge's copies; Judge Tahvonen does not require judge's copies. Praecipes are not required. To schedule a hearing call 989/875-5224.
The Civil Division of Circuit Court handles civil cases over $25,000, appeals, injunctions, license restorations, condemnations, and cases for divorce without minor children. Judge Tahvonen is assigned to this division.
The Criminal Division of Circuit Court handles felony cases, criminal appeals from District Court, extraditions and writs. Judge Rick and Judge Tahvonen are assigned to this division.
The Family Division of Circuit Court has been implemented to establish the "one family, one judge" concept. The Family Division handles name change, paternity, family support, UIFSA, parental waiver, emancipation, adoptions, juvenile, abuse and neglect, personal protection orders and divorce with minor children.
The Gratiot County Courthouse is located at 214 E. Center, Ithaca, MI 48847, (989) 875-5224
Please call Gratiot County Circuit Court offices directly when scheduling or to request information regarding Gratiot County cases.