All criminal cases prosecuted within the County of Roscommon are filed at the 82nd District Court. The 82nd District Court processes misdemeanor cases (less serious crimes), from arraignment through sentencing; felony cases (more serious crimes), from arraignment through preliminary examination, and felony pleas.

Key Terms

• Arraignment: Defendant is advised of his/her rights, advised of the charge, advised of possible penalties, bond is set and a plea may be entered.
• Pre-Trial: An informal exchange of information between Prosecuting Attorney and Defendant and/or Defense Attorney.
• Trial Status Conference: A short hearing in court right before the trial to determine if Prosecuting Attorney and Defendant and Defendant’s Attorney (if 1 is retained) have exchanged information necessary for trial.
• Preliminary Examination: To determine if a crime was committed and if the defendant may have committed the crime, (probable cause).
• Trial by Court: A trial in front of a Judge to determine the guilt or innocence of the defendant, (beyond a reasonable doubt). The Prosecuting Attorney represents the People of the State of Michigan. Defendant may or may not be represented by an attorney.
• Trial by Jury: A trial in front of 6 jurors who will determine the guilt or innocence of the defendant (beyond a reasonable doubt). The Prosecuting Attorney represents the People of the State of Michigan. Defendant may or may not be represented by an attorney.
• Sentencing: The final step in the legal process, a penalty is assessed for someone who is convicted of, or pled guilty to a crime.