michigan criminal records: what they include and how to read them

Overview

Michigan criminal records summarize a person’s interactions with the justice system, including arrests, charges, dispositions, and sentencing. They can exist at the state repository and in county court files, and availability depends on public record rules, sealing, or expungement.

Access and sources

The Michigan State Police maintain the ICHAT name-based search, while county clerks and court portals provide docket details. Expect fees, identity checks, and occasional delays. Set-aside (expunged) matters should not appear, and juvenile files are generally restricted.

Reading results

Verify identifiers, look for the most recent disposition, and match charge statutes to the case number. If something seems wrong, compare the state record to the court docket and request a correction.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Relying on outdated third-party summaries
• Confusing an arrest with a conviction
• Missing dismissed or reduced counts
• Ignoring sealed or set-aside actions
• Skipping the county docket for context
• Sharing results without required consent

For employment or housing decisions, use official sources, document the search date, and follow FCRA notice rules. When in doubt, consult the court or an attorney before assuming a record is complete.