Clinton County, Michigan Warrant Records
Are Warrants Public Record in Clinton County, Michigan?
Warrant records in Clinton County, Michigan are considered public records under Michigan state law. The Michigan Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), MCL 15.231 et seq., establishes the public's right to access government records, including warrant information maintained by county courts and law enforcement agencies. This legislation ensures transparency in the judicial system and allows citizens to obtain information about legal proceedings that may affect them or their community.
Public access to warrant records serves several important functions within the judicial system. It enables individuals to verify their own legal status, allows community members to stay informed about law enforcement activities, and promotes accountability within the criminal justice system. Pursuant to Michigan Court Rules (MCR 8.119), court records are presumptively open for public inspection unless specifically exempted by statute, court rule, or court order.
While warrant records are generally accessible, certain information may be redacted in accordance with MCL 15.243, which outlines specific exemptions to disclosure. These exemptions typically include personal identifying information such as Social Security numbers, driver's license numbers, and other sensitive data that could compromise privacy or security if disclosed.
What Is Contents in Warrant Records in Clinton County?
Warrant records maintained by Clinton County authorities typically contain specific information as required by Michigan law. These records generally include:
• The full legal name of the subject of the warrant • Date of birth and/or age of the subject • Physical description of the individual, including height, weight, and identifying features • The specific criminal charge or violation alleged • The date and time the warrant was issued • The name of the issuing judge or magistrate • The court case number associated with the warrant • Bond amount, if applicable • Special conditions related to the execution of the warrant
In accordance with MCL 780.651, arrest warrants must be supported by an affidavit containing facts establishing probable cause, though this supporting documentation may have restricted access depending on the nature of the case and stage of proceedings.
How to Check For Warrants in Clinton County For Free
Members of the public may access warrant information in Clinton County without charge through several official channels. The Michigan Court Rules provide for public access to court records at minimal or no cost for basic searches. Free methods to check warrant status include:
• In-person visits to the Clinton County Courthouse located at 100 E. State Street, St. Johns, MI 48879, during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM) • Telephone inquiries to the Clinton County Clerk's Office at (989) 224-5140 • Utilizing public access terminals available at the courthouse for searching the court's case management system • Contacting the Clinton County Sheriff's Office at 1347 E. Townsend Road, St. Johns, MI 48879, or by phone at (989) 224-5200
Pursuant to MCR 8.119(H), courts must provide reasonable access to public court records. While basic searches are typically available without charge, fees may apply for copies of documents or certified records in accordance with the court's established fee schedule.
Clinton County Sheriff Warrants
The Clinton County Sheriff's Office is the primary law enforcement agency responsible for executing warrants within the county's jurisdiction. Sheriff warrants are official documents issued by Clinton County courts that authorize law enforcement officers to take specific actions, such as:
• Arrest of individuals charged with criminal offenses • Search of specified premises or property • Seizure of evidence or contraband • Detention of individuals who have failed to appear for court proceedings
The Sheriff's Office maintains a database of active warrants issued within Clinton County. These warrants remain in effect until they are executed or recalled by the issuing court. Under Michigan law, specifically MCL 764.15(1)(c), peace officers may execute arrest warrants at any time and in any place within the state.
The Clinton County Sheriff's Office processes and maintains warrant information at:
Clinton County Sheriff's Office 1347 E. Townsend Road St. Johns, MI 48879 (989) 224-5200 Clinton County Sheriff's Office
How to Know If You Have a Warrant in Clinton County in 2025
Individuals seeking to determine if they are subject to an active warrant in Clinton County may utilize several official resources. The Clinton County court system maintains current warrant information in compliance with Michigan Court Rules. To verify warrant status:
• Contact the Clinton County District Court at 100 E. State Street, Suite 3400, St. Johns, MI 48879, or by phone at (989) 224-5150 • Visit the Clinton County Circuit Court at 100 E. State Street, Suite 3500, St. Johns, MI 48879, or call (989) 224-5140 • Submit a written request to the Clinton County Clerk's Office specifying the information sought • Consult with a licensed attorney who can access court records on behalf of a client
Pursuant to MCL 780.651, warrants remain valid until executed or until the underlying case is resolved. Individuals with active warrants may face arrest at any time, including during routine traffic stops or other interactions with law enforcement. Michigan law enforcement agencies maintain access to the Law Enforcement Information Network (LEIN), which contains warrant information from jurisdictions throughout the state.
How to Check For Outstanding Warrants in Clinton County
Clinton County residents and other interested parties may verify the existence of outstanding warrants through established procedures. The verification process typically requires:
• Providing proper identification to court or law enforcement personnel • Submitting a specific inquiry about the individual in question • Following the protocols established by the particular agency being contacted
The primary resources for checking outstanding warrants include:
Clinton County District Court 100 E. State Street, Suite 3400 St. Johns, MI 48879 (989) 224-5150 Clinton County District Court
Clinton County Circuit Court 100 E. State Street, Suite 3500 St. Johns, MI 48879 (989) 224-5140 Clinton County Circuit Court
Pursuant to MCR 8.119, court records are generally available for public inspection during regular business hours. However, certain records may be subject to access restrictions based on statutory provisions or court orders.
Search Warrant Records in Clinton County
