▼

65th District Court - Probation Division

Show All Answers

1. Can my probation be transferred to another county?

Normally District Court probation cases are not transferred. Requests for transfer must be in writing, addressed to the supervising probation officer. Cases are only transferred with the probation officer and the District Court Administrator, or designee, authorization.

2. My probation is almost over. What do I need to do?

Unless your probation officer tells you differently, you will be mailed a copy of your discharge paperwork without having to report to the probation department. You should not have to appear in front of the Judge, and you do not have to sign any paperwork.

3. The Judge had me meet with a probation officer before he sentenced me. Does this mean that I will be placed on probation?

The Judge often has a defendant meet with a probation officer for a pre-sentence investigation (PSI). The PSI is a tool used by the court to gather information and make recommendations to the Judge for sentencing. Meeting with the probation officer does not mean that you will automatically be placed on probation.

4. My spouse was ordered to have no contact with me while he/she is on probation. How can I get that changed so that we may have contact with each other?

You must contact his or her probation officer, and arrange a date to go before the Judge to make the request. The Judge must make the decision to lift the no contact order. View our policy (PDF) regarding this issue.

5. I was ordered to complete counseling for substance abuse. How many times do I have to go to counseling?

You must complete an assessment at an agency within the time period directed by your probation officer. After the assessment, you will meet with a therapist to discuss the results, and you and the therapist will develop a treatment plan. You will follow the directives of the therapist for treatment. This means that if the therapist says you need to attend a group once per week, you are to attend a group once per week.

If the therapist says that you are to complete individual counseling each week, you are to complete individual counseling each week. Once you and the therapist feel you have reached the goals of the treatment plan, you will be successfully discharged from counseling. You must also ensure that your probation officer receives monthly reports from your therapist verifying that you are attending and complying with your counseling. Failure to complete counseling in a timely manner or failing to follow the directives of the probation officer or the therapist may result in a probation violation.

6. I have a probation violation hearing scheduled. Does this mean that I am going to jail?

Not necessarily. Often a probation violation results in more treatment options or other sanctions, or just a short term jail sentence. A probation violation hearing does not always mean that you will serve the full jail sentence. Note: you may download this form (PDF), fill it in and bring it with you.

7. Why do I have to keep coming in for drug tests when I have been testing negative for over a year?

One of the conditions of your probation is that you are not to use alcohol or drugs. Testing is the only way we can make sure that you are not using these substances while on probation.

8. I keep calling my probation officer, but she is not answering her phone. How can I get in touch with her?

We are kept very busy here, but we make every attempt to return phone messages on the day they are left. If you reach voicemail, leave a message, and your call will be returned. You may also use email to reach your probation officer. Email Lindsay Sova or email Abby Frisbie with your message.

9. My son is on probation, but whenever I call the Court they just tell me no public record exists. I know he is on probation. Why won’t they talk to me?

If a person is placed on probation with a deferral than the case is completely non-public. This means that the only response court staff is allowed, by law, to give to questions about these cases is no public record exists.

10. How long will I be on probation?

Probation generally ranges from 6 to 24 months depending on several factors. There are a few, more severe offenses, such as stalking, that may result in 5 years probation.

11. How will a deferral appear on my criminal history?

Deferrals are non-public while on probation and upon successful discharge from probation. If probation is revoked, the charge would become public at that time. Other Courts are able to access deferrals if you are in that court for a crime. This is to ensure that you don’t receive a deferral that you may have already received.

12. How much will my fine be?

The total amount that you are ordered to pay is composed of several amounts. You will be charged a fine, prosecution costs, a crime victim fee, and a state minimum fee. You may also be charged the following types of fees:

• Court appointed attorney reimbursement
• DNA testing fee
• DNR fee
• Needs assessment fee
• Police reimbursement
• Prosecutor reimbursement
• Restitution

The maximum fine amount listed on your court paperwork is just one part of the overall total that is required by law to be considered and addressed by the court in the setting of fines and costs.

13. How much do drug tests costs?

The normal fee is $15 per test, and unless authorized by the probation officer, must be paid when tested.

View the Gratiot County Testing Policy (DOC), the District Court Policy (DOC), or the EtG Testing Policy (DOC).

14. Where can I drug test at?

You may test at this agency from 8 to 11:30 a.m., and from 1 to 4 p.m. You may test at any drug testing agency, or medical center as well. However, it is your responsibility to find an alternate location to test at if you are unable to test here.

The following places that are currently testing in this area are:

• 1016 in Mt. Pleasant
  Phone: 989-773-9655
• DnA in Mt. Pleasant
  Phone: 989-317-4990
• Occupational Health in Alma
  Phone: 989-466-3296
• PATS in Lansing
  Phone: 517-323-8149

15. What if I can’t pay my fine on time?

Per Michigan Court Rule 1.110, all fines and costs are due and payable on the date of sentencing.

At sentencing the Judge will order an alternative jail sentence. If you are unable to pay your full amount as ordered, you must report to jail to serve the alternative jail sentence. Speak with your probation officer for further information.

16. While I am on probation can I enter a restaurant that serves alcohol?

Most people on probation are not allowed to enter any premises that serve alcohol by the glass. This means that you cannot enter any business whose primary income is based on the sale of alcohol.

Some restaurants also serve alcohol. You may enter those locations, but you may not enter the bar area, and no one in your party may consume alcohol.

17. What is probation?

Probation is a set of conditions that the Court places on a defendant instead of sending the person to jail. The goal of probation is two-fold: to keep the offender from causing harm to society, and to rehabilitate the offender.

18. How often do I have to report to my probation officer?

This is based on several circumstances. Some people report 1 to 2 times per week (although this is rare), and some people do not have to physically report to the probation officer throughout their probation.

19. Can I have non-reporting probation?

Probation does not necessarily require that you come in to physically meet with your probation officer. However, even if you are on non-reporting probation you will still be obligated to report certain things to your probation officer. These include change of address or phone number, plans to leave the state, and contact with law enforcement officials.

20. What do I have to do on probation?

Probation is tailored to fit your offense, the circumstances surrounding it, and your individual history. Some common conditions of probation are that you cannot consume alcohol and/or drugs, completion of drug/alcohol tests, and counseling. However, there are several other conditions that may be placed on you as a condition of probation. Read a letter from the judge (PDF) about probation.

21. Can I be released from probation early?

Under some circumstances the court will consider early release from probation. All money owed to the court must be paid in full, and all probation conditions must have been met. You must also have a valid reason to ask for the early discharge. At that point, you must make your request to the Judge in writing.

22. What do I have to pay for on probation?

While on probation you may be responsible for any of the following depending on what you were ordered to do:

• 12 step donation costs
• Counseling fees
• Drug/alcohol test costs
• Electronic monitoring costs
• Office of Community Corrections fees

23. Can I just pay a bigger fine or serve my jail time and not be on probation?

Probation is imposed as a conditional sentence at the discretion of the court. This means that the judge will decide at the time of your sentencing whether or not there are valid reasons to place you on probation rather than just impose fines and costs or impose a straight jail sentence.

The judge decides each case on a individual basis and you will be given a full opportunity to tell the judge anything that you want him to know and consider before he decides on and imposes your sentence. The judge will evaluate whether your offense and you individually are suitable and appropriate for placement on probation. You can not just pay more fines and costs as a way to avoid being placed on probation by the court.

24. I have medical marijuana certification. Can I smoke marijuana while on probation?

For purposes of compliance with probation we do not allow use of medical marijuana while on probation. Review our policy regarding medical marijuana (PDF).

25. I was ordered not to engage in any aggressive, assaultive, or antisocial conduct. What is antisocial behavior?

Antisocial conduct is any behavior that is the following:

• Belligerent
• Disorderly
• Disruptive
• Harmful
• Inconsiderate

26. I was ordered to complete drug/alcohol tests while on probation. How does that work?

There are several options to complete your testing regarding locations and times. View our policy on testing (DOC).

27. How do I get a restricted license following my drug charge?

Read over our policy on getting a restricted license (DOC).

28. I was ordered to write an apology letter. How long does it have to be?

Review instructions (PDF) for how you should write an apology letter.

29. Could I be told the dates that I will be called in for a drug test ahead of time, so that I can plan my vacation?

Drug and alcohol testing is only effective when it is random, or daily. This means that, while it is inconvenient, you cannot be notified ahead of time of the dates that you need to complete your tests.

▼

County Clerk

Show All Answers

1. How much is it to file for divorce?

$50.00 for our packet for divorce without children (only). Divorce with minor children please refer to michiganlegalhelp.org for the packet. There is a filing fee of $175.00 without minor children or $255.00 with minor children.

2. I have started a divorce and I want to enter a reconcile. How long is that good for?

One year from the date the reconcile request was filed. If you decide to continue with the divorce and it’s been over a year, you would have to file a new divorce.

3. How much is it for a notary? Where do I get this service?

To have documents notarize go to the Clerk’s Office, located on the third floor. There is no charge.

4. How much is it for a birth certificate?

$26.00, $12 for any additional at the same time as first request. If over age 65 birth certificates are $7.00 each.

5. Where do I get a passport?

Apply at the Register of Deeds, located on the third floor.

6. I need to file a motion; how much is it and where do I file it at?

You file a motion at the Clerk’s Office. Before there has been a judgment entered there is no charge. After a judgment has been filed a motion is $20.00, unless it’s a motion regarding parenting time, custody, or child support then it is $100.00. A motion regarding child support only is $60.00.

7. I need to pay my taxes where do I go?

The Treasurer’s Office, located on the third floor.

8. Where do I pay my fines for a circuit court felony case?

The Clerk’s Office, located on the third floor.

9. Where do I pay my fines for a misdemeanor or civil infraction?

The District Court, located on the second floor. You can also pay online.

10. Where do I go to apply for a name change?

Probate Court, located on the third floor.

11. Where do I go with my paperwork for a will?

Probate Court, located on the third floor.

12. How much is it for a concealed weapons permit?

$100.00 for a new with certification of course training and range time. $115.00 for a renewal.

13. How do I get a certified copy of birth, death, or marriage license if I don’t come into the Clerk’s office?

A vital record can be ordered over the phone and we will mail it to you.  You may want to contact us to be sure we have the record you are looking for before you pay.  We can take your payment info over the phone or you can pay online.  A birth certificate requires a State issued ID (Drivers License or State ID), you can email a picture of your ID to us.

14. Where do I apply for a marriage license?

You apply with the County Clerk in the county you live in and can get married anywhere in the state of Michigan. If the two parties getting married live in different counties, you can apply in either. If both parties live outside of Michigan and are getting married in Michigan, you can apply in the county you are getting married. Please allow enough time to obtain the license for there is a 3-day waiting period. License is valid for 30 days after the 3-day waiting period.

15. I received a jury questionnaire. What do I do?

Read the enclosed instruction and fill it out and return it to the County Clerk’s office as soon as possible.  The enclosed instructions cover question you may have.

16. How do I become a notary?

Go to the State of Michigan Secretary of State website to get instructions.  After you have your bond, application, and $10.00 go to the County Clerk’s Office in the county you live.  After the County Clerk’s Office, you will send another $10.00 to the State of Michigan with your stamped application.

17. Where do I get an Absentee Ballot?

You get an absentee Ballot from your City or Township Clerk.  No Ballots are issued by the County Clerk.  Nobody votes at the County Clerk’s Office..

▼

Property Tax

Show All Answers

1. If I don’t pay my taxes, will I really lose my house?

Yes. Under PA 123 of 1999, if your taxes are delinquent for 25 months, you lose your property.

2. What is a delinquent tax?

A delinquent tax is a tax bill that was forwarded to the county treasurer for collection on March 1st of the year after it was due. For example, taxes that are billed by your city or township treasurer in 2019 were turned delinquent to the county treasurer on March 1, 2020.

3. What happens after the property is forwarded to the county treasurer for collection?

The county treasurer adds a required 4% administration fee and 1% per month interest. After one year, the property is forfeited to the county treasurer. For example, 2019 taxes still unpaid as of Mach 1, 2021 are forfeited.

4. What does it mean for my property to be in in Forfeiture?

Forfeiture is the beginning of the foreclosure process. If your property is in forfeiture, you still have 13 months before it will be foreclosed. However, the interest and fees will be higher. When a property is forfeited, the interest rate goes from 1% per month to 1.5% per month, back to the date the taxes became delinquent. Fees of at least $285 are added in the forfeiture and foreclosure process. A notice of forfeiture is recorded with the Register of Deeds.

5. What happens after my property is in forfeiture?

After a property has been in Forfeiture for 13 months, it will be foreclosed. 2019 property taxes will be foreclosed March 31, 2022.

6. What is foreclosure?

Foreclosure is the loss of your property. It occurs March 31, after the Circuit Court judgement is entered.

7. Can I get my property back if it is foreclosed?

No, foreclosure is final. You cannot get your property back after it has been foreclosed. Foreclosed property may go to public auction.

8. Will I receive any notice before my property is foreclosed?

Yes. You will receive five notices. Two will be by first class mail, two by certified mail and one by personal service. The names and addresses of those with an interest in forfeited property will also be published in a local paper.

9. I don’t have to worry about losing my property yet. Why not wait and pay my taxes later?

Don’t wait! Unpaid property taxes from 2019 will result in property foreclosure March 31, 2022. If all taxes, penalties and interest are not paid before the end of the redemption period, you will lose your property. Foreclosure is final!

10. What if I don’t have all the money right now?

Help is available in many circumstances. Any delay will cost you more. If you can’t pay your taxes all at one, you can make partial payments.  When making payments, use a check or money order and remember to:

1. Make payable to the Gratiot County Treasurer.
2. Write your parcel number on it.
3. Mail it to 214 E. Center St, Ithaca MI 48847

If you can’t pay your taxes, contact the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services at 517-887-9400 or visit them at 5303 S. Cedar St, Lansing for possible financial assistance.

▼

Veterans Affairs (VA)

Show All Answers

1. Am I eligible for VA benefits?

If you're serving on active duty in the United States uniformed services, including active National Guard and Reserve with federal pay, you may be eligible for VA benefits both during service and after separation or retirement. If you're a traditional or technical member of the National Guard and Reserve, you may also be eligible for some VA benefits. Find out which benefits you may qualify for by scheduling a Benefits Review appointment with the Gratiot County Department of Veterans Affairs and review the Veterans VA Benefits Checklist (PDF) for documents needed to file a claim.

2. I am the spouse of a Veteran who recently passed away. Do I qualify for any VA benefits?

A variety of benefits to surviving spouses and eligible dependent children of deceased veterans are based on the Veteran’s Discharge (DD-214) from Active Duty Service. These include Survivors Pension, Compensation for Service-Connected Deaths, Burial and Government Marker (for the deceased veteran), and other miscellaneous benefits. Review the Survivors VA Benefits Checklist (PDF) for information needed when scheduling a Benefits Review appointment with the Gratiot County Department of Veterans Affairs.

3. I can’t locate my DD-214 Discharge/Report of Separation. Can I get a replacement?

First, check with the Clerk’s Office in the County to which you were discharged. If it is not on file with the County Clerk, Gratiot County Department of Veterans Affairs can assist with a Request for Record of Active Duty Service from the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency (MVAA) or Request for Military Records (SF-180) from the National Archives.

4. Is there any emergency assistance or resources available for veterans?

Yes, the Michigan Veterans Trust Fund provides assistance for emergent and temporary needs of eligible veterans. To connect with available resources, contact Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency at 1-800-642-4838 or Dial 211 for other Michigan agencies.

The Veterans Relief Fund provides temporary relief to honorably discharged, indigent veterans primarily in the form of a Food Voucher.  Gratiot County DVA also has a limited supply of gift cards to assist veterans who have a temporary need not covered by other assistance programs.  These gift cards may be used for miscellaneous expenses like gasoline to get to medical appointments, groceries, toiletries, clothing items, utility bills, or other services, for example.  Contact the Gratiot County Veterans Affairs Office to determine eligibility.

5. I served with the Michigan National Guard. Do I qualify for VA benefits?

Service in the National Guard normally does not qualify for federal VA benefits unless the Veteran was called to Active Duty. However, there are exceptions. Contact our office to schedule a Benefits Review appointment. For more information about National Guard programs, contact the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs at 1-517-481-8000 or Michigan National Guard Headquarters at 1-517-481-8331.

6. I am a Veteran and need medical care. Will the VA help me?

VA Healthcare benefits are available to eligible veterans based on a Priority Group system. Gratiot County Veterans Affairs can assist with filing VA Form 10-10EZ Application for Health Benefits (PDF) for eligible veterans as well as applying for other VA benefits.

7. Does my private medical insurance or Medicare disqualify me from using the VA hospital in Saginaw?

No, VA Medical Centers are part of the VA Healthcare System that works in coordination with Medicare and private insurance. You must file an Application for Health Benefits to determine your eligibility for VA Healthcare.

8. I heard I can go to my own doctor and the VA will pay for it. How do I enroll?

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) launched its new and improved Veterans Community Care Program (Mission Act) on June 6, 2019. Under the new Veterans Community Care Program, Veterans can work with their VA health care provider to see if they are eligible to receive community care based on the new criteria. However, the veteran must first be enrolled in the VA Healthcare System.

9. How do I get a Veteran’s Identification Card (VIC) for store discounts?

Veterans can apply through their eBenefits account or go to the Veterans Affairs website for more information. Veteran Health Identification Cards (VHIC), issued when enrolled in VA health care, and Department of Defense (DoD) Identification Cards may be used to get discounts offered to veterans at many stores, businesses, and restaurants. A Veteran designation printed on a state-issued driver’s license or ID may also get some store discounts.