Civil Litigation FAQ for Michigan
Answers to common questions about civil litigation laws, costs, and procedures in Michigan.
What is the statute of limitations for civil litigation in Michigan?
In Michigan, the statute of limitations for civil litigation cases is 3 years for torts; 6 years for contracts. This deadline is established under MCL § 600.5805; MCL § 600.5807. Michigan has a general 3-year statute for tort actions and 6 years for contracts. The state eliminated joint and several liability for most tort claims except in environmental cases.
What courts handle civil litigation cases in Michigan?
Michigan's court system for civil litigation cases follows this hierarchy: Circuit Courts (general jurisdiction) → Court of Appeals → Supreme Court of Michigan. The appropriate court depends on the monetary amount in controversy and the specific nature of your civil litigation matter.
Does Michigan require mandatory arbitration for civil litigation?
Yes, Michigan requires mandatory arbitration for certain civil litigation cases. This means some disputes must go through arbitration before proceeding to trial, which can affect timelines and costs.
What are the filing fees for civil litigation in Michigan?
Civil filing fees in Michigan typically range from $200-$350. The exact fee depends on the type of civil litigation case, the court where you file, and whether additional motions are required. Contact the local clerk of court for the most current fee schedule.
What makes Michigan's civil litigation laws unique?
Michigan has a unique no-fault auto insurance system that historically provided unlimited lifetime medical benefits for accident injuries, making it one of the most distinctive insurance regimes in the nation. The state also uses case evaluation (mediation) panels, and parties who reject a panel's recommendation and do worse at trial must pay the other side's attorney fees. Additionally, regarding civil litigation specifically: Michigan has a general 3-year statute for tort actions and 6 years for contracts. The state eliminated joint and several liability for most tort claims except in environmental cases. Understanding these unique aspects of Michigan law is critical for anyone involved in a civil litigation matter in the state.
How many lawyers practice civil litigation in Michigan?
Michigan has approximately 35,000 active licensed attorneys. While not all specialize in civil litigation, the state's legal market provides a range of options from solo practitioners to large firms. Michigan has a mandatory (unified) bar, meaning all practicing attorneys must be members.
What are the CLE requirements in Michigan?
Michigan requires attorneys to complete 0 hours of continuing legal education (CLE) annually, including 0 hours of ethics. Michigan does not require mandatory CLE for licensed attorneys, though it is a unified bar state. The State Bar of Michigan is an administrative arm of the Michigan Supreme Court. This ensures that attorneys practicing civil litigation in Michigan stay current with legal developments.
Where can I check a Michigan lawyer's disciplinary record?
You can verify a Michigan attorney's standing and check for any disciplinary actions through the state bar's public discipline portal at https://www.michbar.org/generalinfo/discipline. It is always recommended to check an attorney's record before hiring them for your civil litigation matter.
How can automation help with civil litigation in Michigan?
AI-powered automation streamlines civil litigation workflows in Michigan by automating document preparation, deadline tracking, client intake, and compliance monitoring. Law firms using InstaThink's automation tools report saving 15+ hours per week on administrative tasks, allowing attorneys to focus on higher-value legal work and serve more clients effectively.
Where can I find more information about Michigan's bar association?
The Michigan Bar Association website is available at https://www.michbar.org. This is the primary resource for finding licensed attorneys, understanding your rights, accessing legal aid programs, and learning about civil litigation laws specific to Michigan.
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