The 36th District Court is Detroit’s district court and one of the busiest courts in Michigan, with dozens of judges handling a heavy daily docket. Cases move quickly here, which is exactly why it helps to have a lawyer who is prepared from the first hearing.
Where the court is and who it serves
The 36th District Court is located at 421 Madison Street, Detroit, MI 48226, in the Madison Center building next to Ford Field. It serves:
- City of Detroit
Not sure this is your court? Look up your city in our court finder.
What the 36th District Court handles
Like every Michigan district court, the 36th District Court handles misdemeanors and drunk driving cases, traffic tickets and civil infractions, civil lawsuits up to $25,000, small claims and landlord-tenant cases. It also handles the first stages of every felony charged in its communities.
Common cases we see
The 36th District Court handles the full range of misdemeanor and early felony cases from the city, including drunk driving, drug possession, assault and domestic violence, weapons charges, retail fraud and traffic misdemeanors such as driving while license suspended.
What to expect if you have a case here
- Arraignment. The charge is read, your rights are explained and bond conditions are set. What happens at an arraignment.
- Pretrial conference. Your lawyer reviews the police reports and video and negotiates with the prosecutor. Many cases are resolved at this stage.
- Motions, plea or trial. If the case isn’t resolved, we challenge the evidence and, if needed, take it to trial before a judge or jury.
- Sentencing and probation. If there is a conviction, the court’s probation department often supervises conditions such as testing, classes or community service.
The 36th District Court holds some proceedings virtually, offers online case lookup and court date reminders, and posts its Zoom schedule. Always confirm whether your hearing is in person or virtual, and follow the court’s instructions closely.
If you’re charged with a felony
Felony cases from Detroit start in the 36th District Court with an arraignment, a probable cause conference and a preliminary examination. If the prosecutor shows probable cause and the case isn’t resolved, it is bound over to Wayne County’s Third Circuit Court for trial. Early work in district court, such as challenging the evidence at the preliminary examination, can change how the rest of the case unfolds.
Don’t miss your court date. Missing a hearing can lead to a bench warrant, a higher bond and, in traffic cases, a suspended license. If you think you’ve missed a date or have a warrant, read what to do and call us.
Why clients choose David
David interned in a prosecutor’s office, clerked in the Oakland County Circuit Court and is a published contributor to ICLE’s Michigan Drunk Driving Law and Practice. From our Bloomfield Hills office, he represents clients in courts across Oakland, Wayne and Macomb counties. You work with him directly, and he tells you honestly what to expect in your courtroom.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the 36th District Court?
At 421 Madison Street in downtown Detroit, in the Madison Center building next to Ford Field.
Is my hearing in person or on Zoom?
It depends on the type of hearing and the courtroom. Check your court notice and the court’s posted schedule, or call us and we’ll confirm it for you.