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Michigan Civil Litigation Questions & Answers
2 Answers | Asked in Civil Litigation, Contracts and Real Estate Law for Michigan on
Q: If you sold a property on a land contract and now the person was buying it is trying to sell it.

The buyer is 4 months behind on payments and two years behind on taxes which is in the contract. The buyer has been always late on every payment since the land contract was signed. The owner has sent the proper letter to start eviction process. Another two weeks he could file court papers for... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Apr 17, 2024

In a land contract, the seller retains legal title to the property until the buyer fulfills all the terms of the contract, including making all payments and paying property taxes. The buyer cannot legally sell the property without the owner's permission and the legal title.

Given the...
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2 Answers | Asked in Civil Litigation, Contracts and Real Estate Law for Michigan on
Q: If you sold a property on a land contract and now the person was buying it is trying to sell it.

The buyer is 4 months behind on payments and two years behind on taxes which is in the contract. The buyer has been always late on every payment since the land contract was signed. The owner has sent the proper letter to start eviction process. Another two weeks he could file court papers for... View More

Kenneth V Zichi
Kenneth V Zichi
answered on Apr 18, 2024

In MICHIGAN the buyer on a land contract has what is called 'Equitable Title'.

While that entails certain limitations, that means they *can* LEGALLY sell their interest, and ... here's the kicker ... if they can do so before you complete the forfeiture or foreclosure on the...
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1 Answer | Asked in Civil Litigation, Criminal Law, Federal Crimes and Civil Rights for Michigan on
Q: What are the remedies and violations of law in this case?

My drafts (3) for a Freedom of Information Act Request are being removed from my email before I have a chance to send it. I've attempted to request an investigation no response, then I attempted to complete a FOIA request that disappears. I know it's a first amendment violation what other... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Apr 16, 2024

Based on the information provided, there are several potential legal issues and violations that may be involved in this case:

1. First Amendment violation: As you mentioned, interfering with your right to free speech and petition the government for redress of grievances could be a violation...
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2 Answers | Asked in Civil Litigation, Contracts and Civil Rights for Michigan on
Q: Constitutional laws the right to contract or not to contract

Can a state agency make you pay for something that you did not agree to pay basically it is contract that they put into motion with out your knowledge

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Apr 7, 2024

This is a complex legal question that doesn't have a simple yes or no answer. There are a few important considerations:

The U.S. Constitution protects the freedom of contract, meaning the government generally cannot force you into an agreement against your will. The 14th Amendment...
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1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law, Family Law, Civil Litigation and Civil Rights for Michigan on
Q: I want to sue my husbands ex wife and sisters for attacking me in 2018 when I was 5 weeks pregnant. He has autism

I was verbally and physically attacked by my husbands sister and his ex planned it even omitted to it. She even began rumors saying I was a homewrecker causing more stress. She even attempted to have me assaulted with wine bottles by her cousins two them and yes she drove the car. I want to sue... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Mar 28, 2024

In situations where you've been subjected to physical and verbal attacks, pursuing legal action is a pathway many consider to find justice and potentially deter future incidents. Your desire to sue for the distress and harm caused, especially during a sensitive period like early pregnancy, is... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Civil Litigation, Constitutional Law and Gov & Administrative Law for Michigan on
Q: Do I file an injunction or writ of mandamus to compel the funeral director to correct a death certificate?

The parents and decedent's names aren't valid neither is the address of the decedent. It's been 5 years and they will not provide me with a valid death certificate. I contacted The Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs in Michigan thus far the investigator isn't being transparent.

Thanks.

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Feb 26, 2024

In addressing the issue of incorrect information on a death certificate, determining whether to file an injunction or a writ of mandamus depends on the specific actions you wish to compel from the funeral director. A writ of mandamus is typically used to order a government official or entity to... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law, Civil Litigation and Civil Rights for Michigan on
Q: I need someone to get the surveillance video from Kalamazoo gospel mission because is letting my rights be violated bad.

THE STAFF AT THE KALAMAZOO GOSPEL MISSION NEEDS TO BE FIRED. THIS MENTALLY HANDICAP MAN JUST LAID DOWN NEXT TO ME AND IS THREATENING ME AND THE STAFF KNOWS AND WILL DO NOTHING. I WOULD LIKE TO FILE A LAWSUIT AGAINST THE MISSION AND ONCE WE GET THE VIDEO FROM THE PAST MONTH AND A HALF YOU WILL... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Feb 24, 2024

If you believe your rights are being violated at the Kalamazoo Gospel Mission, it's important to take appropriate steps to address the situation. Start by documenting the incidents and gathering any evidence, such as witness statements or written records of the events. Consider reaching out to... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Civil Litigation and Civil Rights for Michigan on
Q: IF THE STAFF LETS A GUEST VIOLATE MY RIGHTS CAN I SUE THAT STAFF MEMBER? In a homeless shelter?

If I am a guest at an overnight shelter and the staff let's my rights be violated can I sue that staff member?

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Feb 24, 2024

Whether you can sue a staff member at a homeless shelter for allowing your rights to be violated depends on various factors, including the nature of the violation, the staff member's actions or negligence, and applicable laws and regulations. In general, staff at homeless shelters have a duty... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Appeals / Appellate Law, Civil Litigation and Landlord - Tenant for Michigan on
Q: Can I file a late appeal under MCR 7.105(G) as soon as I get the circuit court's signed dismissal without prejudice?

My appeal to circuit court was dismissed without prejudice for premature filing. Once the order dismissing the case without prejudice is signed, can I immediately file a late appeal to circuit court under MCR 7.105(G) or do I need permission from district court? I'm in Wayne County, Michigan.... View More

Brent T. Geers
Brent T. Geers
answered on Feb 1, 2024

I'm confused by your question. It sounds like you are trying to appeal an eviction proceeding before a final order has been entered by the trial court (e.g., the district court). That is likely why the circuit court told you your filing was premature.

If this is an accurate read of...
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1 Answer | Asked in Civil Litigation for Michigan on
Q: In Michigan, I missed the six months deadline to appeal a civil case. Is there anything with in the judicial process tha

That allows to file beyond the six months

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Jan 24, 2024

In Michigan, if you've missed the six-month deadline to appeal a civil case, options to file beyond this period are limited. Appeal deadlines are generally strictly enforced. However, in exceptional circumstances, the court may consider an extension or reopening the appeal period.... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Civil Litigation for Michigan on
Q: How may I search for a successful petition similar to my case?

Without knowing a case name/number, how may I find cases similar to mine?

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Jan 22, 2024

To search for similar cases without a specific case name or number, you can utilize legal research databases like Westlaw, LexisNexis, or Google Scholar. These platforms allow you to search by keywords related to your case. Include relevant legal terms, statutes, or specific issues pertinent to... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Estate Planning, Civil Litigation and Probate for Michigan on
Q: So when my dad passed away and he says we get 50% of whatever he has. We have to wait till my stepmother dies to get our

To get our inheritance.

Kenneth V Zichi
Kenneth V Zichi
answered on Jan 2, 2024

What he SAYS is actually of no import. HOWEVER, what does matter is his what estate planning documents have put IN WRITING.

I don't actually see a question here, but without reviewing the documents it is impossible to say what you might expect, and when you might expect it. IF your...
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2 Answers | Asked in Real Estate Law and Civil Litigation for Michigan on
Q: I sold a house on a land contract. Buyer is 3 months behind on his payments, property taxes and water.

I took the buyer to court. Buyer was served a forfeiture notice. He did not show up and case was ruled in my favor (Failure to appear). Now the case is scheduled for a review. We do not have to go to court. Do I need to send the buyer or court anything? What will happen next?

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Dec 25, 2023

Since the court already ruled in your favor due to the buyer's failure to appear, you may not need to send anything further to the buyer or the court for the review. Typically, after such a ruling, the court will proceed with the forfeiture process.

During the review, the court will...
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1 Answer | Asked in Contracts, Family Law, Civil Litigation and Constitutional Law for Michigan on
Q: What can I do if I was denied the right to file a motion to dismiss a default judgment, which resulted in me now…

Losing my home? I had a default judgment rolled against me on July 7 and attempted to file a motion to dismiss on July 13. The court clerk refused to accept my dismissal, claiming that I did not have the 21 days I was told I only had seven. This directly led to me now losing my home. What can I do... View More

Brent T. Geers
Brent T. Geers
answered on Sep 12, 2023

You need a lawyer; and you likely needed a lawyer months ago.

As happens when people try to represent themselves, you are unaware of the proper procedures and court rules. Filing whatever you think is proper whenever you think it should be filed is not how this works.

You have a...
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1 Answer | Asked in Civil Litigation for Michigan on
Q: Michigan civil lawsuit against a neighbor who trespassed our property and called the Humane Society to trap our cats.

Their attorney claims a Statute of limitation of three years as tort, but I believe it's six years because they immediately adopted part of the cats therefore should be Statutory Conversion. Could you clarify this for me?

Brent T. Geers
Brent T. Geers
answered on Aug 12, 2023

The governing statute of limitation is for the claim made, not what it could be. Typically, in civil matters, you can make alternative claims. Each claim, though, would be subject to its applicable statute of limitations. Hopefully you are engaged with an attorney who knows this, as you can easily... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Civil Litigation and Personal Injury for Michigan on
Q: A friend visited my home and unknowingly dropped her glasses and my 7 month old puppy chewed them up. And wants me to re

Wants me to replace her glasses for $185.

Her husband is the one who sent me the message. And states if I don't contact him by 5pm he's going to have to file a lawsuit

I haven't admitted to anything nor have I contacted him back

Brent T. Geers
Brent T. Geers
answered on Aug 3, 2023

For $185!? He's going to spend more than that filing a law suit.

How you move about this depends on how much you value the relationship with your friend. Although it sounds like maybe her husband is more of a problem here.

If it were me, I would be inclined not to let money...
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1 Answer | Asked in Civil Litigation and Estate Planning for Michigan on
Q: Can I get a new trial if the presiding judge in my case publicly said he didn't decide my original case on its merits?
Trent Harris
Trent Harris
answered on Jun 12, 2023

If what you said is true, you could file a motion to set aside the judgment and request a new trial. But it would most likely be within the discretion of the court whether to grant your motion. You would most likely need to identify one or more legal errors that affected the outcome, and facts to... View More

2 Answers | Asked in Business Law and Civil Litigation for Michigan on
Q: I am in a partnership dispute. I am a member of a 50/50 partnership. We both agree to dissolve the company.

Are there any case law for me to ask for a non-compete or moratorium for both of us not to be able to use the existing customers of the business for a certain amount of time?

David Soble
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David Soble
answered on May 26, 2023

Good question. These items that you wish to have, such as a non-compete or a non-circumvention agreement, are documents that should really be agreed to up front at the time you and your partner did your initial business deal - so PRIOR to the actual dissolution of a company and not during a... View More

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2 Answers | Asked in Real Estate Law and Civil Litigation for Michigan on
Q: My mother & I are both on mortgage. She's principal borrower. She passed. Can/Do I assume the mortgage? Please help! Ken

Mortgage was drawn from her account because she had good credit. But, I have been paying mortgage through her account by check. I insure the home as well. My credit is much better now. It looks as though the mortgage company may just run my credit as to not upset the mortgage. Is this common?... View More

Brent T. Geers
Brent T. Geers
answered on May 9, 2023

Being on the mortgage and being on a deed are two different things. If your name is on the deed, then I think you can be reasonably assured of not losing the home to your sister.

As to the mortgage itself, if your name is already on the mortgage, I'm not sure there is anything you need...
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2 Answers | Asked in Real Estate Law and Civil Litigation for Michigan on
Q: My mother & I are both on mortgage. She's principal borrower. She passed. Can/Do I assume the mortgage? Please help! Ken

Mortgage was drawn from her account because she had good credit. But, I have been paying mortgage through her account by check. I insure the home as well. My credit is much better now. It looks as though the mortgage company may just run my credit as to not upset the mortgage. Is this common?... View More

Peter J. Weinman
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answered on May 9, 2023

I do not necessarily disagree with attorney Geers, who is licensed in your state (where I am not), but your question has two aspects. I think (1) there's a distinction between being a borrower (on the note) and being an owner (and necessarily on the mortgage), and (2) whether your sister has... View More

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