18th District Court Westland Records offers a secure, real-time digital portal for searching criminal and civil case filings in Westland, Michigan. The system provides instant access to case details including charges, court dates, sentencing outcomes, probation information, and supervising officer contacts. Users can search by case number, defendant name, or filing date for cases from 2022–2024. Civil records cover general suits, small claims under $10,000, and landlord-tenant disputes. Each record includes timestamps, presiding judge names, and docket updates updated every 15 minutes through Michigan’s CourtDisplay system.
How to Search 18th District Court Westland Records Online
The official online database allows anyone to look up active or closed cases without visiting the courthouse. Start by going to the court’s case search page. Enter either the full legal name of a party, a valid docket number, or a specific filing date range. For criminal cases, results show the initial charge, arraignment schedule, and current status. Civil cases display the plaintiff and defendant names, claim type, and judge assigned. All records are public and free to view. The system updates every quarter hour, so information stays current throughout the day.
Required Information for Case Lookup
- Full legal name of defendant or plaintiff
- Exact docket or case number (if known)
- Filing date or year (2022–2024 only)
- Type of case: criminal, civil, small claims, or landlord-tenant
What You’ll Find in Each Record
Every search result includes key details to help verify identity and track progress. Criminal records list the original charge, statute cited, arraignment date, and sentencing outcome if completed. Probation start dates and supervising officer contact numbers appear when applicable. Civil records show the nature of the suit, amount claimed, and presiding judge. All entries are timestamped and linked to the live docket for further verification. Users can print or save summaries for personal use.
Electronic Warrant Submission Process
Individuals with active warrants can resolve them electronically through the court’s dedicated email system. Send a message to the court’s legal department with your full legal name, current residential address, and a working phone number. A court-appointed attorney will contact you within three to five business days to schedule a magistrate appearance. The warrant remains active until you appear before Judge Sandra Ference Cicirelli and receive clearance or dismissal. All communications are logged in the case management system and visible on the public docket.
Steps to Submit a Warrant Request
- Compose an email to the court’s official warrant address
- Include your full name, address, and phone number
- State that you are requesting warrant resolution
- Wait for a response within 3–5 business days
- Attend the scheduled hearing as instructed
Important Notes on Warrant Clearance
Do not ignore an active warrant. The court does not cancel warrants automatically. You must appear before the judge to receive formal dismissal. Failure to appear may result in additional charges or bail forfeiture. All outcomes are recorded in the public record and updated on Michigan CourtDisplay within minutes.
Criminal Case Services and Jurisdiction
The 18th District Court handles all misdemeanor and felony offenses occurring within Westland city limits. This includes petty theft, traffic violations, assault, burglary, and drug-related crimes. Each case receives a unique docket number at filing. The clerk’s office provides daily calendars, defendant rights brochures, and contact information for legal aid. Judge Sandra Ference Cicirelli presides over most criminal matters. For questions, call 734-595-8720 during business hours.
Types of Criminal Cases Handled
- Misdemeanors (e.g., disorderly conduct, minor theft)
- Felonies (e.g., burglary, aggravated assault)
- Traffic violations with criminal penalties
- Mental health adjudications
- Probation violations
Court Hours and Contact Information
| Service | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 36675 Ford Road, Westland, MI 48185 |
| Phone | 734-595-8720 |
| Fax | 734-595-0160 |
| Hours | Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. |
| Presiding Judge | Honorable Sandra Ference Cicirelli |
Civil Case Records and Small Claims Access
Civil litigants can search for general civil suits, small claims disputes, and landlord-tenant actions using the same online portal. Enter the full legal name of either party and the docket number if available. Results show the case type, filing date, presiding judge, and current status. Small claims cases are limited to disputes under $10,000. Landlord-tenant cases include evictions, security deposit claims, and lease violations. All records are timestamped and linked to the live docket for real-time updates.
Common Civil Case Types
- General civil suits (unlimited and limited jurisdiction)
- Small claims (up to $10,000)
- Landlord-tenant disputes
- Foreclosures and lien enforcement
- Real estate boundary issues
How to Request Certified Copies
Certified copies of court records cost $7 per document. Requests can be made in person at the clerk’s office or by mail. Include the case number, party names, and a self-addressed stamped envelope. Processing takes 3–5 business days. For urgent needs, call ahead to confirm availability.
Michigan CourtDisplay Live Docket System
The Michigan CourtDisplay portal provides a live, searchable docket for the 18th District Court. Users see scheduled hearings, party names, case numbers, and motion filings updated every 15 minutes. Filter results by date, case type, or attorney name. The system also offers printable daily summaries showing courtroom assignments and judge names. Historical data is available for the past 30 days. This tool is essential for attorneys, defendants, and researchers needing real-time case status.
Features of CourtDisplay
- Real-time updates every 15 minutes
- Search by case number, name, or hearing type
- Printable daily docket summaries
- Access to past 30 days of records
- Links to case details and motions
Records Retention and Public Access Policies
All court records are maintained for a minimum of ten years under Michigan state law. After that, documents may be purged according to retention schedules. Non-criminal court case records are accessible to the public unless sealed by court order. Users must provide accurate identifying information to retrieve records. The court charges $3 for standard record requests and $7 for certified copies. Assistance is available via a toll-free help line for technical issues.
Record Request Fees
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Standard record lookup | Free |
| Standard record copy | $3 |
| Certified copy | $7 |
| Transcript (per page) | $0.20 |
Privacy, Cookies, and Data Protection
The court’s website uses cookies to remember user preferences like search filters and language settings. These small text files help pre-fill forms on return visits. Users may disable cookies in their browser, but this may limit functionality. All data practices comply with Michigan’s data protection statutes. Personal information submitted for warrant resolution or record requests is kept confidential and used only for court purposes.
Types of Cases Searchable Online
- Criminal
- Civil
- Traffic
- Domestic (divorce, family matters)
- Probate
Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution
The 18th District Court offers mediation services for eligible civil cases. This free program helps parties resolve disputes without a trial. Mediators are neutral third parties trained in conflict resolution. Sessions are confidential and voluntary. If an agreement is reached, it becomes a binding court order. Mediation is available for small claims, landlord-tenant, and certain civil disputes. Contact the clerk’s office to request a referral.
Filing Motions and Scheduling Continuances
Parties can file motions or request continuances online or in person. Downloadable forms are available on the court’s website. Submit completed forms with the required fee to the clerk’s office. For urgent requests, call 734-595-8720. The judge reviews all motions and responds within five business days. Continuances are not guaranteed and must be justified with valid reasons such as illness or attorney unavailability.
Parking, Security, and Visitor Information
The courthouse at 36675 Ford Road has free parking on-site. Security checks all visitors at the entrance. Photo ID is required for entry. The lobby has bulletin boards with maps, parking details, and court schedules. Public restrooms and seating are available. The facility is wheelchair accessible. For large groups or special needs, call ahead to arrange accommodations.
Related Legal Resources and Support Services
The court provides self-help guides for navigating Michigan’s legal system. These include instructions for filing motions, understanding rights, and preparing for hearings. Links to legal aid organizations and public defender offices are posted on the website. For non-English speakers, interpreter services are available upon request. All resources are free and designed to help individuals represent themselves when needed.
Contact and Official Links
For official information, visit the 18th District Court website or call the main clerk line. All case searches should begin through the Michigan CourtDisplay portal for the most accurate data. Below are verified contact details and resources.
Official Website: https://18thdistrictcourt.com/
Case Search Portal: https://micourt.courts.michigan.gov/CaseSearch/Court/D18
Live Docket: https://micourt.courts.michigan.gov/CourtDisplay/Display/public/0f1A8Oju4UiJfXH5oD8pNQ
Phone: 734-595-8720
Address: 36675 Ford Road, Westland, MI 48185
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have questions about accessing court records, resolving warrants, or understanding case statuses. Below are answers to the most common inquiries based on real user needs and court policies.
How do I check if I have an active warrant in Westland?
You can check for an active warrant by searching your name on the Michigan CourtDisplay portal or by calling the 18th District Court clerk at 734-595-8720. If a warrant exists, it will appear in the criminal case search results. You may also submit an electronic warrant resolution request via email. Include your full name, address, and phone number. A court-appointed attorney will contact you within three to five business days to schedule a hearing. Do not ignore a warrant—failure to appear can lead to additional penalties. The warrant remains active until you appear before Judge Cicirelli and receive formal clearance.
Can I get a certified copy of my court record online?
No, certified copies cannot be obtained online. You must request them in person or by mail. Visit the clerk’s office at 36675 Ford Road, Westland, MI 48185, during business hours (8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday–Friday). Bring a valid photo ID and the case number. The fee is $7 per certified copy. Processing takes 3–5 business days. For mailed requests, include a self-addressed stamped envelope, payment, and a completed request form. Call 734-595-8720 to confirm document availability before sending payment.
What types of cases does the 18th District Court handle?
The 18th District Court handles criminal, civil, traffic, domestic, and probate cases within Westland city limits. Criminal cases include misdemeanors and felonies such as theft, assault, and drug offenses. Civil cases cover general suits, small claims under $10,000, landlord-tenant disputes, foreclosures, and real estate issues. Traffic violations with criminal penalties are also processed here. Domestic cases include divorce and family matters. Probate cases involve wills and estates. Each case type has specific filing procedures and is assigned to a courtroom based on subject matter.
How often is the online docket updated?
The online docket on Michigan CourtDisplay updates every 15 minutes. This ensures attorneys, defendants, and the public see the most current hearing schedules, motion filings, and case statuses. Changes such as continuances, new filings, or judge assignments appear within minutes. Historical data is available for the past 30 days. For real-time accuracy, always check the live docket before attending court. The system is reliable and used by legal professionals across Wayne County.
Is mediation available for small claims cases?
Yes, mediation is available for eligible small claims and civil cases at no cost. The court offers free mediation services to help parties reach agreements without a trial. Mediators are neutral and trained in conflict resolution. Sessions are confidential and voluntary. If both sides agree, the resolution becomes a binding court order. To request mediation, contact the clerk’s office at 734-595-8720. Not all cases qualify—mediation is typically offered for disputes involving money, property, or lease issues. It is not available for criminal or domestic violence cases.
What should I bring to my first court appearance?
Bring a valid photo ID, your case number, and any related documents such as citations, motions, or correspondence from the court. If you have an attorney, ensure they are present. Dress respectfully—avoid shorts, hats, or casual wear. Arrive 30 minutes early to pass through security. The courthouse requires all visitors to show ID at the entrance. If you need an interpreter, request one in advance. Failure to appear may result in a bench warrant or additional charges.
How long are court records kept?
Court records are kept for at least ten years under Michigan law. After that, they may be destroyed according to state retention schedules. Non-criminal records are public unless sealed by court order. Older records may not be available online but can be requested from the archives. For cases older than ten years, contact the Wayne County Clerk’s office. Fees apply for retrieval and copying. Always verify record availability before making a request.