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1. What is a misdemeanor?

A misdemeanor is a criminal violation of a law that is punishable by jail in addition to a fine and costs. Generally, misdemeanors are less serious criminal violations than felonies, which provide for greater jail time and greater fines and costs. Felonies are prosecuted by the County Prosecutor, while the City Attorney prosecutes only misdemeanors. Under the City's ordinances, most criminal violations are punishable by up to 90 days in jail and/or a $500 fine. A few offenses, such as drunk driving, have higher penalties.

2. Does the City Attorney's Office provide legal forms for court filings?

No.

Legal forms are available on the 6th floor of City Hall, at local law libraries, and on the Michigan Supreme Court website.

3. How do I request an adjournment of a City of Lansing case?

Contact the Judge's Clerk. Judges do not typically give adjournments. However, you may try to get an adjournment by contacting the court clerk of the judge who is assigned to the case.

4. I filed a police report with the Lansing Police Department, and I want to check the status. Whom do I call?

Call the Lansing Police Department. To check on the status of a police report, contact the Lansing police detective assigned to that case. The detective will inform you by letter if you must appear at the City Attorney's office to sign a complaint.
Lansing Police Department
120 W Michigan Avenue
Lansing, MI 48933
517-483-4800

5. How do I request prosecution in a misdemeanor matter?

Contact Lansing Police Department. If you have been a victim of a crime, the first step is to contact the Lansing Police Department, 483-4800. The police will file a report and the detective assigned to the case will provide you with information on pursuing the case against the accused person. The Office of the City Attorney cannot initiate this process; you must go to the police and report the incident first.

6. I am the victim of a crime and received the crime victim's rights letter. What do I have to do? Am I required to attend the pre-trial hearing?

The letter is to notify you of your rights, but you are not required to attend. The letter you received gives you the chance to let the court know how this incident has affected you and informs you of the court date. The questionnaire included in the crime victim's right letter needs to be returned to the Office of the City Attorney by the court date. If we do not have this information from you, the court cannot take it into consideration. You are not required to attend the pre-trial hearing. If the defendant decides to go to trial, you will receive a subpoena to appear in court for the trial date.