TRAINING CURRICULUM TOPIC:
Overview of the Michigan Court System

Goals for this training: This training should provide employees with an understanding of and introduction to:

1. The structure of the Michigan Court System

2. Michigan Court Rules and how they guide court actions

3. The history of the local court in which they work

4. The functions and locations of the various divisions of the local court

Available Resources:

• "Handbook of Legal Terms"

• "The Michigan Court Rules: A Guide for Court Support Personnel"

• "Your Guide to Accessing Michigan Courts"

• Coaching Guide for Accessing Michigan Courts — print this file and use with your supervisor. (118KB PDF)

• Organizational Chart of Michigan Judicial System is available on-line at the Michigan Supreme Court website. http://courts.mi.gov/scao/resources/other/orgchart.pdf

• All About The Courts is offered on the Michigan Supreme Court website. This page answers some of the most often asked questions about the court system along with general information about court process and procedure. http://courts.mi.gov/scao/selfhelp/intro/court.htm

• To learn more about the Michigan Court System, complete the following MJI self-study training module:

  • Understanding the Big Picture: Working Effectively in the Justice System.

Best Practices

• Look up the Michigan Court Rules that apply to the specific court of the participants being trained. Review these rules with the participants so they understand that these rules guide the processes used within the court. (36th District Court)

• Bring in the Court Administrator and Chief Judge to do a brief presentation to new employees about the Mission and Vision of the court. (36th District Court)

• Walking Tour: Take the participants on a walking tour of the court facilities to acquaint them with the location of offices, court room, etc. (3rd Circuit Court)

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