48th District Court

Situated at 4280 Telegraph Road, the 48th District Court is a bustling spot in Oakland County. It's the go-to place for dealing with both civil and criminal issues for a number of local areas including the cities of Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, Keego Harbor, Orchard Lake, and Sylvan Lake. Plus, it also serves the Townships of Bloomfield and West Bloomfield.

One thing you should know about the judges in the 48th District Court is that they're known for being tough. They often set high bail amounts and attach several conditions. If you're a first-time offender, don't expect any leniency, as it's quite common for them to hand out jail sentences. This also applies to anyone who has broken the rules of their probation. So, if you're ever dealing with this court, it's crucial to have someone on your side who knows the ins and outs of the law to defend you effectively.

It is important to remember that judges possess significant discretion when determining the appropriate punishment. Without the assistance of competent legal representation, such as our attorneys, there is a risk of inadvertently saying or doing something that could result in increased penalties.

When it comes to minor crimes, you'd typically receive a court summons, asking you to show up in court where they'll tell you what you're being charged with and ask you to plead guilty or not guilty. If you stay quiet, the judge or magistrate will enter a not guilty plea for you. If you admit you're guilty, they might decide your punishment right there and then, or set a date to do that later. If you plead not guilty, you may still be able to resolve the case without going to trial. However, if it doesn't get resolved, then you'd have to go through a trial which could be before a judge or a jury. Every case is different, and things could change depending on what exactly you're being charged with, your past criminal record, and other things related to your case. So, it's always a good idea to get a good lawyer who knows their way around this court.

If you've got a disagreement with someone over something worth up to $25,000, this court will be where it gets sorted out. It also looks after small claims of up to $3,000, problems between landlords and tenants, eviction cases, garnishments, and issues around land contracts and mortgage foreclosure.

On the list of misdemeanors this court deals with are drunk driving, identity theft, assault and battery, disorderly conduct, obstructing a police officer, drug possession, domestic violence, and certain traffic offenses like driving with a suspended license or without a valid license. The court also processes all traffic tickets, whether they're just civil infractions like speeding tickets or failure to yield or more serious misdemeanors.

The area encompassing Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, Keego Harbor, Orchard Lake, Sylvan Lake, and West Bloomfield is a picturesque region located in Oakland County, Michigan. Known for its affluent neighborhoods, beautiful landscapes, and thriving communities, this area offers a unique blend of elegance, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities.

Birmingham is a vibrant city with a charming downtown area known as Birmingham's Principal Shopping District. Here, visitors can explore a variety of boutique shops, upscale restaurants, art galleries, and theaters. The city is also home to beautiful parks and gardens, such as Shain Park and the Birmingham Botanical Gardens, where residents and visitors can relax and enjoy outdoor activities.

Bloomfield Hills is renowned for its luxurious residences and prestigious institutions. The Cranbrook Educational Community, a National Historic Landmark, encompasses an art museum, a science museum, and an institute of arts and crafts. Cranbrook Gardens, a stunning landscape with exquisite gardens and sculptures, is a popular attraction for nature enthusiasts.

Keego Harbor and Sylvan Lake are picturesque lakefront communities that offer serene waterfront living. Residents and visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, and other water activities on the lakes. These communities also feature cozy parks, public beaches, and waterfront restaurants that provide a relaxing atmosphere for outdoor enjoyment.

Orchard Lake is home to Orchard Lake Village, a charming community with a rich history. The area is known for Orchard Lake Seminary, a former girls' school that now serves as a retreat center and cultural venue. Orchard Lake itself offers scenic views, water activities, and peaceful surroundings.

West Bloomfield is a diverse and family-friendly community known for its excellent schools and recreational amenities. The township boasts numerous parks, including Marshbank Park and West Bloomfield Woods Nature Preserve, where residents can engage in hiking, picnicking, and other outdoor activities. West Bloomfield also offers access to several lakes, including Cass Lake and Upper Straits Lake, providing opportunities for water recreation.

Overall, the area encompassing Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, Keego Harbor, Orchard Lake, Sylvan Lake, and West Bloomfield showcases an exceptional blend of elegance, natural beauty, cultural attractions, and recreational opportunities. Whether it's exploring the vibrant downtown areas, visiting renowned institutions, enjoying waterfront activities, or immersing oneself in the serene surroundings, this region offers a high quality of life and a sense of community for residents and visitors alike.