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Criminal Defense
MI

Criminal Defense Exhibits for Michigan Courts

Michigan criminal defense cases follow MCR 6.201 for discovery and evidence exchange. Wayne County Circuit Court handles the highest volume of felony cases. This guide covers exhibit preparation for criminal defense matters including suppression motions, trial exhibits, and sentencing proceedings.

MiFilePer MCR 6.201 discovery rulesMCR 6.201, MCL 767

Michigan Quick Reference

E-Filing SystemMiFile
File Size Limit25 MB
Exchange DeadlinePer MCR 6.201 discovery rules
Primary RuleMCR 6.201, MCL 767

Common Criminal Defense Exhibits in Michigan

Police reports and investigation records
Witness statements
Surveillance and body camera footage
Physical evidence photographs
Expert witness reports
Character reference letters
Employment and education records
Medical and mental health records
Alibi documentation
911 calls and dispatch records
Laboratory and forensic reports
Prior record documentation

Michigan Criminal Defense Tips

  • 1MCR 6.201 governs discovery in criminal cases
  • 2Wayne County has specific criminal division procedures
  • 3Defense discovery requests must be timely under MCR 6.201
  • 4MiFile is used for electronic filing statewide
  • 5Exhibits are typically numbered sequentially for defense
  • 6Oakland and Macomb Counties have separate procedures
  • 7Michigan has specific sentencing guidelines exhibits

Common Criminal Defense Filing Mistakes in Michigan

Missing MCR 6.201 discovery request deadlines
Not obtaining all police investigation records
Exceeding 25 MB file limit on MiFile
Failing to preserve surveillance footage
Incomplete character reference documentation
Missing expert witness qualifications

Criminal Defense Exhibits in Michigan: FAQ

What discovery rights do defendants have under MCR 6.201?

MCR 6.201 provides broad discovery rights including police reports, witness statements, and exculpatory evidence. Prepare exhibits from all discovery received.

How do I file criminal defense exhibits in Michigan?

Use MiFile for electronic filing. Documents must be PDF format under 25 MB. Follow specific procedures for your county's criminal division.

What exhibits are needed for suppression motions?

Prepare exhibits including arrest reports, search warrant affidavits, body camera footage, and any evidence of constitutional violations.

What sentencing exhibits are important in Michigan?

Prepare character letters, employment records, treatment records, and any mitigating evidence. Michigan sentencing guidelines require specific documentation.

How should defense exhibits be organized?

Organize by category: investigation records, defense evidence, character evidence, expert reports. Number sequentially (D-1, D-2) for clear identification.

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