Chapter 1: Procedures for Traffic Civil Infractions, Misdemeanors, and Felonies

1.1Scope Note

This chapter discusses the jurisdictional and procedural requirements related to civil infractions involving traffic or parking violations, misdemeanor traffic offenses, and felony traffic offenses. It also provides an overview of the criminal penalties and licensing sanctions generally associated with violations of the Michigan Vehicle Code (MVC).1 A more detailed discussion of criminal penalties and licensing sanctions is provided in the chapters covering specific civil infractions, misdemeanors, and felonies. Procedures regarding juveniles are discussed in Chapter 2.

1   The MVC is the principal source of Michigan traffic law. “Except as otherwise provided in [MCL 257.901(3)], it is a misdemeanor for a person to violate [the MVC], unless that violation is by [the MVC] or other law of this state declared to be a felony or a civil infraction.” MCL 257.901(1). “Except as otherwise provided in [the MVC], a violation of [the MVC] by the owner of a commercial quadricycle arising out of the ownership or operation of the commercial quadricycle is a civil infraction.” MCL 257.901(3). Except as otherwise provided in the Revised Judicature Act, the MVC governs civil infractions involving a traffic or parking violation. MCL 600.113(2).