What is the difference between a Judge and a Magistrate in Michigan? In Michigan’s court system, magistrates and judges have distinct yet significant roles, each carrying unique responsibilities and levels of authority that shape the judicial process. By grasping the differences between them, you can better prepare yourself for what to anticipate should you find yourself in a courtroom. What Is a Judge? A judge is an official who presides over court cases and makes decisions based on the law. Judges handle a wide variety of cases, including criminal, civil, family, and probate matters. In Michigan, judges are either elected by voters or appointed by the governor to serve a specific term, usually six years. Judges have broad authority and can: Oversee trials in both criminal and civil cases Make rulings on evidence and legal issues Decide the outcome of cases if there is no jury Sentence individuals in criminal cases Handle appeals in some cases Judges are often seen in higher courts, such as Circuit Courts or Probate Courts, where they have more power and oversee more serious matters, such as felony cases or significant lawsuits. What Is a Magistrate? A magistrate is a judicial officer with more limited authority than a judge. They are often appointed by the chief judge of a court and assist judges by handling less serious matters. Magistrates may not be elected officials like judges, yet their impact within the justice system is significant, particularly in the District Courts of Michigan. Magistrates typically handle: Traffic violations and small claims cases Setting bail and issuing warrants Arraignments (the first court appearance where charges are read) Conducting preliminary examinations in some criminal cases Handling informal hearings and resolving minor disputes Magistrates do not have the authority to oversee trials for more serious criminal offenses or to render final judgments in complex cases, as their primary function is to alleviate the court’s workload by addressing more straightforward legal matters. Both magistrates and judges are vital to the functioning of Michigan’s court system, yet judges possess greater authority and manage more intricate cases, whereas magistrates concentrate on more minor legal issues.. As always… Follow the money. If you can. More Posts The Difference Between a Magistrate and a Judge in Michigan What is the difference between a Judge and a Magistrate in Michigan?In Michigan's court system,... MRTMA defense denied dismissal by MI Court of Appeals The Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marihuana Act. Does it protect you in all Marijuana... Use of a computer to commit a crime – The latest add on charges for your record 750.145d Use of internet or computer system; prohibited conduct; violation; penalty; jurisdiction;... The search was triggered by the sweet smell of marijuana The case People of Michigan v. Freddie Wilkins III (No. 367209) revolves around a legal challenge... The End of Medical Marijuana Caregivers? Is it the end of the Michigan Medical Marijuana Caregiver System?As the medical marijuana market... Carrying Firearms Under the Influence of Alcohol or Controlled Substance Laws and Penalties in Michigan of Carrying a Concealed Firearm or EMD Under the Influence of... Operating While Intoxicated – Marijuana Investigation Checklist Operating While Intoxicated—Marijuana Investigation ChecklistProvided by Michigan’s Traffic Safety... Appeals court ruled in favor for cannabis consumer gun owner Win Win for Government sales of Marijuana and gun$. Win Win for Gun Ownership Cannabis Consumer$.A... Court Ruling – Sorry No bonus for growing cannabis No Soup for YouA marijuana farm worker is unable to succeed in his breach-of-contract lawsuit... Older Entries The post The Difference Between a Magistrate and a Judge in Michigan appeared first on Michigan Medical Marijuana. View the full article

What’s the difference between a Magistrate and a Judge in Michigan? In Michigan’s court system, both magistrates and judges play important roles, but they have different responsibilities and authority. Understanding the differences between the two can help you know what to expect if you find yourself in court. What Is a Magistrate? A magistrate is a judicial officer with more limited authority than a judge. They are often appointed by the chief judge of a court and assist judges by handling less serious matters. While they are not elected like judges, magistrates still play a crucial role in the justice system, especially in Michigan’s District Courts. Magistrates typically handle: Traffic violations and small claims cases Setting bail and issuing warrants Arraignments (the first court appearance where charges are read) Conducting preliminary examinations in some criminal cases Handling informal hearings and resolving minor disputes Magistrates are not authorized to preside over trials for more serious criminal offenses or issue final judgments in complex cases. Their role is to help ease the court’s workload by dealing with simpler matters. What Is a Judge? A judge is an official who presides over court cases and makes decisions based on the law. Judges handle a wide variety of cases, including criminal, civil, family, and probate matters. In Michigan, judges are either elected by voters or appointed by the governor to serve a specific term, usually six years. Judges have broad authority and can: Oversee trials in both criminal and civil cases Make rulings on evidence and legal issues Decide the outcome of cases if there is no jury Sentence individuals in criminal cases Handle appeals in some cases Judges are often seen in higher courts, such as Circuit Courts or Probate Courts, where they have more power and oversee more serious matters, such as felony cases or significant lawsuits. In summary, while both magistrates and judges play important roles in Michigan’s court system, judges have more authority and handle more complex cases, while magistrates focus on smaller, less serious legal matters. Since 1993 Komorn Law has provided expert legal defense for individuals facing criminal charges, DUI cases, and appeals in both Federal and State courts. Komorn Law’s aggressive defense strategies, ensures that your rights are protected at every stage of the legal process. If you’re looking for a fighting lawyer, call us. Attorney Michael Komorn State / Federal Legal Defense With extensive experience in criminal legal defense since 1993 from pre-arrest, District, Circuit, Appeals, Supreme and the Federal court systems. Facebook X LinkedIn KOMORN LAW (248) 357-2550 Note: This article provides a general overview and does not substitute for legal advice. Anyone charged with a CSC offense should consult an attorney for specific legal guidance. Laws What is the Difference Between a Magistrate and a Judge What's the difference between a Magistrate and a Judge in Michigan?In Michigan’s court system, both magistrates and judges play important roles, but they have different responsibilities and authority. Understanding the differences between the two can help you know... read more Add on charges for your permanent record – Using a computer The Use of Electronic Devices to Commit Crimes in Michigan Yes that means your cellphone... Computer" means any connected, directly interoperable or interactive device, equipment, or facility that uses a computer program or other instructions to perform specific... read more Can You Be Charged for Using Your Phone During a Crime in Michigan? Your breaking the law if you are using a cellphone while driving. On top of that if you're committing a crime and you use the phone... You're in for a prosecutor's extra round of office high fives.Can You Be Charged for Using Your Phone During a Crime in Michigan?... read more Prohibited person possessing firearm Thinking about going hunting? Not if you are a person who is prohibited from possessing a firearm in Michigan.In Michigan, certain individuals are legally prohibited from owning or possessing a firearm. Being caught with a firearm if you fall under this category can... read more Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance in Michigan Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance in MichiganIn Michigan, being caught with illegal drugs can lead to serious consequences. The state has strict laws on drug possession, and unlawful possession of a controlled substance is one of the most common charges.... read more Obstruction Laws in Michigan Move along or you'll be arrested for Obstruction of "Justice".In Michigan, obstruction is a crime that involves interfering with law enforcement or other officials when they are trying to carry out their duties. Obstruction can cover a wide range of actions, including... read more Resisting Arrest in Michigan Stop resisting! Stop resisting!In Michigan, resisting arrest is a serious crime. Under Michigan Compiled Law (MCL) 750.81d, it is illegal to resist or obstruct a police officer or any other law enforcement official when they are performing their duties. This law... read more Criminal Sexual Conduct (CSC) Fourth Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct (CSC) in Michigan: Fourth DegreeCriminal Sexual Conduct (CSC) is a set of laws in Michigan that define and penalize various forms of sexual offenses. These laws are categorized into four degrees, with each degree reflecting the severity of the... read more Criminal Sexual Conduct (CSC) Third Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct (CSC) in Michigan Third DegreeCriminal Sexual Conduct (CSC) is a set of laws in Michigan that define and penalize various forms of sexual offenses. These laws are categorized into four degrees, with each degree reflecting the severity of the... read more Criminal Sexual Conduct (CSC) Second Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct (CSC) in Michigan: Definitions, Penalties, and Legal References.Criminal Sexual Conduct (CSC) is a set of laws in Michigan that define and penalize various forms of sexual offenses. These laws are categorized into four degrees, with each degree... read more The post What is the Difference Between a Magistrate and a Judge appeared first on Komorn Law. View the full article

Welcome to "Let's Be Blunt with Montel," where we explore the fascinating world of cannabis. In this episode, Montel Williams sits down with Lilach Mazor Power, a trailblazer in the cannabis industry and the CEO of The Mazor Collective. As the founder of one of Arizona's pioneering dispensaries, The Giving Tree, Lilach shares her insights on the current challenges and opportunities in the cannabis business. Join us as we discuss the importance of community engagement, safety, and innovation within the industry. Lilach emphasizes the critical need for secure cannabis storage, especially with the rising number of households that include children and pets. She provides five essential tips for keeping your stash safe and introduces the GT Stash Box, designed to help prevent accidental ingestion by curious kids and pets. Beyond safety, Lilach talks about her experience as a female entrepreneur in a male-dominated industry, her commitment to charity work, and the inspiring legacy she aims to leave through her company’s innovative products like Revelry for menopause. Whether you're a cannabis enthusiast, a fellow entrepreneur, or someone interested in the industry's evolving landscape, this episode is packed with valuable insights and advice. Tune in to discover the dynamic world of cannabis and learn from one of its leading voices.